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Fessel J. Personalized, Precision Medicine to Cure Alzheimer's Dementia: Approach #1. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3909. [PMID: 38612719 PMCID: PMC11012190 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The goal of the treatment for Alzheimer's dementia (AD) is the cure of dementia. A literature review revealed 18 major elements causing AD and 29 separate medications that address them. For any individual with AD, one is unlikely to discern which major causal elements produced dementia. Thus, for personalized, precision medicine, all causal elements must be treated so that each individual patient will have her or his causal elements addressed. Twenty-nine drugs cannot concomitantly be administered, so triple combinations of drugs taken from that list are suggested, and each triple combination can be administered sequentially, in any order. Ten combinations given over 13 weeks require 2.5 years, or if given over 26 weeks, they require 5.0 years. Such sequential treatment addresses all 18 elements and should cure dementia. In addition, any comorbid risk factors for AD whose first presence or worsening was within ±1 year of when AD first appeared should receive appropriate, standard treatment together with the sequential combinations. The article outlines a randomized clinical trial that is necessary to assess the safety and efficacy of the proposed treatments; it includes a triple-drug Rx for equipoise. Clinical trials should have durations of both 2.5 and 5.0 years unless the data safety monitoring board (DSMB) determines earlier success or futility since it is uncertain whether three or six months of treatment will be curative in humans, although studies in animals suggest that the briefer duration of treatment might be effective and restore defective neural tracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Fessel
- Clinical Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, 2069 Filbert Street, San Francisco, CA 94123, USA
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2
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The effect of Coenzyme Q10 supplementation on serum levels of lactate, pyruvate, matrix metalloproteinase 9 and nitric oxide in women with migraine. A double blind, placebo, controlled randomized clinical trial. Eur J Integr Med 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2018.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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3
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Chico L, Orsucci D, Lo Gerfo A, Marconi L, Mancuso M, Siciliano G. Biomarkers and progress of antioxidant therapy for rare mitochondrial disorders. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/21678707.2016.1178570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Chico
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Daniele Orsucci
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Annalisa Lo Gerfo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Letizia Marconi
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Michelangelo Mancuso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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4
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Zsurka G, Kunz WS. Mitochondrial dysfunction and seizures: the neuronal energy crisis. Lancet Neurol 2015; 14:956-66. [PMID: 26293567 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(15)00148-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2015] [Revised: 06/19/2015] [Accepted: 06/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Seizures are often the key manifestation of neurological diseases caused by pathogenic mutations in 169 of the genes that have so far been identified to affect mitochondrial function. Mitochondria are the main producers of ATP needed for normal electrical activities of neurons and synaptic transmission. Additionally, they have a central role in neurotransmitter synthesis, calcium homoeostasis, redox signalling, production and modulation of reactive oxygen species, and neuronal death. Hypotheses link mitochondrial failure to seizure generation through changes in calcium homoeostasis, oxidation of ion channels and neurotransmitter transporters by reactive oxygen species, a decrease in neuronal plasma membrane potential, and reduced network inhibition due to interneuronal dysfunction. Seizures, irrespective of their origin, represent an excessive acute energy demand in the brain. Accordingly, secondary mitochondrial dysfunction has been described in various epileptic disorders, including disorders that are mainly of non-mitochondrial origin. An understanding of the reciprocal relation between mitochondrial dysfunction and epilepsy is crucial to select appropriate anticonvulsant treatment and has the potential to open up new therapeutic approaches in the subset of epileptic disorders caused by mitochondrial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gábor Zsurka
- Division of Neurochemistry, Department of Epileptology, and Life & Brain Center, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Wolfram S Kunz
- Division of Neurochemistry, Department of Epileptology, and Life & Brain Center, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
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5
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Scarpelli M, Todeschini A, Rinaldi F, Rota S, Padovani A, Filosto M. Strategies for treating mitochondrial disorders: an update. Mol Genet Metab 2014; 113:253-60. [PMID: 25458518 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2014.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2014] [Revised: 09/30/2014] [Accepted: 09/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondrial diseases are a heterogeneous group of disorders resulting from primary dysfunction of the respiratory chain due to both nuclear and mitochondrial DNA mutations. The wide heterogeneity of biochemical dysfunctions and pathogenic mechanisms typical of this group of diseases has hindered therapy trials; therefore, available treatment options remain limited. Therapeutic strategies aimed at increasing mitochondrial functions (by enhancing biogenesis and electron transport chain function), improving the removal of reactive oxygen species and noxious metabolites, modulating aberrant calcium homeostasis and repopulating mitochondrial DNA could potentially restore the respiratory chain dysfunction. The challenge that lies ahead is the translation of some promising laboratory results into safe and effective therapies for patients. In this review we briefly update and discuss the most feasible therapeutic approaches for mitochondrial diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Scarpelli
- Section of Neurology, Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Alice Todeschini
- Clinical Neurology, Section for Neuromuscular Diseases and Neuropathies, University Hospital "Spedali Civili", Brescia, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Rinaldi
- Clinical Neurology, Section for Neuromuscular Diseases and Neuropathies, University Hospital "Spedali Civili", Brescia, Italy
| | - Silvia Rota
- Clinical Neurology, Section for Neuromuscular Diseases and Neuropathies, University Hospital "Spedali Civili", Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Padovani
- Clinical Neurology, Section for Neuromuscular Diseases and Neuropathies, University Hospital "Spedali Civili", Brescia, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Filosto
- Clinical Neurology, Section for Neuromuscular Diseases and Neuropathies, University Hospital "Spedali Civili", Brescia, Italy.
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6
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Abstract
Although mitochondrial disorders are among the most common inherited conditions that cause neurologic impairment, there are currently no U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medications designed to treat primary mitochondrial disease. This is in part related to the lack of biomarkers to monitor disease status or response to treatment and the paucity of randomized, controlled clinical trials focused on mitochondrial disease therapies. Despite this discouraging historical precedent, a number of new approaches to mitochondrial disease therapy are on the horizon. By studying metabolites central to redox chemistry, investigators are gaining new insights into potential noninvasive biomarkers. Controlled clinical trials designed to study the effects of novel redox-modulating therapies, such as EPI-743, in patients with inherited mitochondrial disease are also underway. Furthermore, several new compounds with potential effects on inner mitochondrial membrane function and mitochondrial biogenesis are in development. Such advances are providing the foundation for a new era in mitochondrial disease therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory M Enns
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Stanford University and the Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, Stanford, CA, USA
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7
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Pfeffer G, Horvath R, Klopstock T, Mootha VK, Suomalainen A, Koene S, Hirano M, Zeviani M, Bindoff LA, Yu-Wai-Man P, Hanna M, Carelli V, McFarland R, Majamaa K, Turnbull DM, Smeitink J, Chinnery PF. New treatments for mitochondrial disease-no time to drop our standards. Nat Rev Neurol 2013; 9:474-81. [PMID: 23817350 PMCID: PMC4967498 DOI: 10.1038/nrneurol.2013.129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction is a common cause of inherited multisystem disease that often involves the nervous system. Despite major advances in our understanding of the pathophysiology of mitochondrial diseases, clinical management of these conditions remains largely supportive. Using a systematic approach, we identified 1,039 publications on treatments for mitochondrial diseases, only 35 of which included observations on more than five patients. Reports of a positive outcome on the basis of a biomarker of unproven clinical significance were more common in nonrandomized and nonblinded studies, suggesting a publication bias toward positive but poorly executed studies. Although trial design is improving, there is a critical need to develop new biomarkers of mitochondrial disease. In this Perspectives article, we make recommendations for the design of future treatment trials in mitochondrial diseases. Patients and physicians should no longer rely on potentially biased data, with the associated costs and risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald Pfeffer
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Institute of Genetic Medicine, Ageing and Health, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
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8
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Ishiyama A, Komaki H, Saito T, Saito Y, Nakagawa E, Sugai K, Itagaki Y, Matsuzaki K, Nakura M, Nishino I, Goto YI, Sasaki M. Unusual exocrine complication of pancreatitis in mitochondrial disease. Brain Dev 2013. [PMID: 23182449 DOI: 10.1016/j.braindev.2012.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
No association between mitochondrial disease and pancreatitis has yet been established, although diabetes mellitus and diseases caused by exocrine insufficiency, such as Pearson syndrome, are the commonest pancreatic complications of mitochondrial diseases. Here, we report 2 cases of mitochondrial disease complicated by pancreatitis as an unusual pancreatic exocrine manifestation. One patient was a 10-year-old girl with mild retardation of psychomotor development who had experienced recurrent pancreatitis since the age of 4years. Chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia (CPEO) due to m.8344A>G mutation was diagnosed when the patient was 10years old. The other patient was a 28-year-old woman who was diagnosed with mitochondrial myopathy, encephalopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes (MELAS) due to m.3243A>G mutation at 10years of age. She had experienced regular recurrent vomiting since the age of 16 and suffered an episode of critical pancreatitis at 23years. In both cases, no possible etiological, morphological, or genetic factors for pancreatitis were identified, including anomalous pancreaticobiliary duct. A combination therapy of the standard treatment for chronic pancreatitis and supportive therapy for mitochondrial energy production may be beneficial to prevent the recurrence of acute pancreatitis complicating mitochondrial diseases. The pathophysiological mechanism of pancreatitis in mitochondrial disease has not been adequately established; however, our observations suggest that pancreatitis should be included in the list of pancreatic complications of mitochondrial disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihiko Ishiyama
- Department of Child Neurology, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
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9
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Abstract
Mitochondrial disorders are a heterogeneous group of disorders resulting from primary dysfunction of the respiratory chain. Muscle tissue is highly metabolically active, and therefore myopathy is a common element of the clinical presentation of these disorders, although this may be overshadowed by central neurological features. This review is aimed at a general medical and neurologist readership and provides a clinical approach to the recognition, investigation, and treatment of mitochondrial myopathies. Emphasis is placed on practical management considerations while including some recent updates in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald Pfeffer
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle NE13BZ, United Kingdom
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10
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Chu CS, Chu CL, Liu HE, Lu T. Regain of visuospatial capacity after coenzyme Q10 in a patient with mitochondrial myopathy, encephalopathy, lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes: a case report. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2012; 24:186-8. [PMID: 26953014 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5215.2011.00620.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE MELAS (mitochondrial myopathy, encephalopathy, lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes) is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by mitochondrial dysfunction. Multiple systems of the body, including cognitive function and heart conduction, can be affected by this disorder. We report a case with global cognitive impairment. METHOD A single-case report. RESULTS The patient got improved cognitive function, especially visuospatial function, under coenzyme Q10 treatment. CONCLUSION First, coenzyme Q10 may give some benefit to control MELAS. Second, cognitive functions and intellectual abilities decline with disease progression. Routine neuropsychological tests should be performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Che-Sheng Chu
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Liang Chu
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Ern Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ti Lu
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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11
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Mitochondrial respiratory chain disorders are the most prevalent group of inherited neurometabolic diseases. They present with central and peripheral neurological features usually in association with other organ involvement including the eye, the heart, the liver, and kidneys, diabetes mellitus and sensorineural deafness. Current treatment is largely supportive and the disorders progress relentlessly causing significant morbidity and premature death. Vitamin supplements, pharmacological agents and exercise therapy have been used in isolated cases and small clinical trials, but the efficacy of these interventions is unclear. The first review was carried out in 2003, and identified six clinical trials. This major update was carried out to identify new studies and grade the original studies for potential bias in accordance with revised Cochrane Collaboration guidelines. OBJECTIVES To determine whether there is objective evidence to support the use of current treatments for mitochondrial disease. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Neuromuscular Disease Group Specialized Register (4 July 2011), CENTRAL (2011, Issue 2, MEDLINE (1966 to July 2011), and EMBASE (January 1980 to July 2011), and contacted experts in the field. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (including cross-over studies). Two of the authors independently selected abstracts for further detailed review. Further review was performed independently by all five authors to decide which trials fit the inclusion criteria and graded risk of bias. Participants included males and females of any age with a confirmed diagnosis of mitochondrial disease based upon muscle histochemistry, respiratory chain complex analysis of tissues or cell lines or DNA studies. Interventions included any pharmacological agent, dietary modification, nutritional supplement, exercise therapy or other treatment. The review authors excluded studies at high risk of bias in any category. The primary outcome measures included an change in muscle strength and/or endurance, or neurological clinical features. Secondary outcome measures included quality of life assessments, biochemical markers of disease and negative outcomes. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two of the authors (GP and PFC) independently identified studies for further evaluation from all abstracts within the search period. For those studies identified for further review, all five authors then independently assessed which studies met the entry criteria. For the included studies, we extracted details of the number of randomised participants, treatment, study design, study category, allocation concealment and other risk of bias criteria, and participant characteristics. Analysis was based on intention-to-treat data. We planned to use meta-analysis, but this did not prove necessary. MAIN RESULTS The authors reviewed 1335 abstracts, and from these identified 21 potentially eligible abstracts. Upon detailed review, 12 studies fulfilled the entry criteria. Of these, eight were new studies that had been published since the previous version of this review. Two studies which were included in the previous version of this review were excluded because of potential for bias. The comparability of the included studies is extremely low because of differences in the specific diseases studied, differences in the therapeutic agents used, dosage, study design, and outcomes. The methodological quality of included studies was generally high, although risk of bias was unclear in random sequence generation and allocation concealment for most studies. Otherwise, the risk of bias was low for most studies in the other categories. Serious adverse events were uncommon, except for peripheral nerve toxicity in a long-term trial of dichloroacetate (DCA) in adults.One trial studied high-dose coenzyme Q10 without clinically meaningful improvement (although there were multiple biochemical, physiologic, and neuroimaging outcomes, in 30 participants). Three trials used creatine monohydrate alone, with one reporting evidence of improved measures of muscle strength and post-exercise lactate, but the other two reported no benefit (total of 38 participants). One trial studied the effects of a combination of coenzyme Q10, creatine monohydrate, and lipoic acid and reported a statistically significant improvement in biochemical markers and peak ankle dorsiflexion strength, but overall no clinical improvement in 16 participants. Five trials studied the effects of DCA: three trials in children showed a statistically significant improvement in secondary outcome measures of mitochondrial metabolism (venous lactate in three trials, and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) in one trial; total of 63 participants). One trial of short-term DCA in adults demonstrated no clinically relevant improvement (improved venous lactate but no change in physiologic, imaging, or questionnaire findings, in eight participants). One longer-term DCA trial in adults was terminated prematurely due to peripheral nerve toxicity without clinical benefit (assessments included the GATE score, venous lactate and MRS, in 30 participants). One trial using dimethylglycine showed no significant effect (measurements of venous lactate and oxygen consumption (VO(2)) in five participants). One trial using a whey-based supplement showed statistically significant improvement in markers of free radical reducing capacity but no clinical benefit (assessments included the Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) questionnaire and UK Medical Research Council (MRC) muscle strength, in 13 participants). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Despite identifying eight new trials there is currently no clear evidence supporting the use of any intervention in mitochondrial disorders. Further research is needed to establish the role of a wide range of therapeutic approaches. We suggest further research should identify novel agents to be tested in homogeneous study populations with clinically relevant primary endpoints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald Pfeffer
- Newcastle UniversityInstitute of Genetic MedicineCentral ParkwayNewcastle upon TyneUKNE1 3BZ
- University of British ColumbiaClinician Investigator ProgramVancouverBritish ColumbiaCanada
| | - Kari Majamaa
- University of OuluInstitute of Clinical Medicine, Department of NeurologyPO Box 5000OuluFinland
| | - Douglass M Turnbull
- Newcastle UniversityMitochondrial Research Group, The Medical SchoolFramlington PlaceNewcastle Upon TyneUKNE2 4HH
| | - David Thorburn
- Royal Children's HospitalMurdoch Children's Research Institute10th Floor Main BuildingFlemington Rd, ParkvilleVictoriaAustralia3052
| | - Patrick F Chinnery
- Newcastle UniversityInstitute of Genetic MedicineCentral ParkwayNewcastle upon TyneUKNE1 3BZ
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12
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Santa KM. Treatment options for mitochondrial myopathy, encephalopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes (MELAS) syndrome. Pharmacotherapy 2011; 30:1179-96. [PMID: 20973690 DOI: 10.1592/phco.30.11.1179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondrial myopathy, encephalopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes (MELAS) syndrome is a rare neurodegenerative disease caused by the decreased ability of cells to produce sufficient energy in the form of adenosine 5'-triphosphate. Although it is one of the most common maternally inherited mitochondrial disorders, its exact incidence is unknown. Caused most frequently by an A-to-G point mutation at the 3243 position in the mitochondrial DNA, MELAS syndrome has a broad range of clinical manifestations and a highly variable course. The classic neurologic characteristics include encephalopathy, seizures, and stroke-like episodes. In addition to its neurologic manifestations, MELAS syndrome exhibits multisystem effects including cardiac conduction defects, diabetes mellitus, short stature, myopathy, and gastrointestinal disturbances. Unfortunately, no consensus guidelines outlining standard drug regimens exist for this syndrome. Many of the accepted therapies used in treating MELAS syndrome have been identified through a small number of clinical trials or isolated case reports. Currently, the drugs most often used include antioxidants and various vitamins aimed at minimizing the demands on the mitochondria and supporting and maximizing their function. Some of the most frequently prescribed agents include coenzyme Q(10), l-arginine, B vitamins, and levocarnitine. Although articles describing MELAS syndrome are available, few specifically target education for clinical pharmacists. This article will provide pharmacists with a practical resource to enhance their understanding of MELAS syndrome in order to provide safe and effective pharmaceutical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M Santa
- Department of Pharmacy, Froedtert Hospital, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53226, USA.
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13
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Wallace DC, Fan W, Procaccio V. Mitochondrial energetics and therapeutics. ANNUAL REVIEW OF PATHOLOGY-MECHANISMS OF DISEASE 2010; 5:297-348. [PMID: 20078222 DOI: 10.1146/annurev.pathol.4.110807.092314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 496] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction has been linked to a wide range of degenerative and metabolic diseases, cancer, and aging. All these clinical manifestations arise from the central role of bioenergetics in cell biology. Although genetic therapies are maturing as the rules of bioenergetic genetics are clarified, metabolic therapies have been ineffectual. This failure results from our limited appreciation of the role of bioenergetics as the interface between the environment and the cell. A systems approach, which, ironically, was first successfully applied over 80 years ago with the introduction of the ketogenic diet, is required. Analysis of the many ways that a shift from carbohydrate glycolytic metabolism to fatty acid and ketone oxidative metabolism may modulate metabolism, signal transduction pathways, and the epigenome gives us an appreciation of the ketogenic diet and the potential for bioenergetic therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas C Wallace
- Center for Molecular and Mitochondrial Medicine and Genetics and Departments of Biological Chemistry, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, and Pediatrics, University of California at Irvine, Irvine, California 92697-3940, USA.
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14
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Scaglia F, Northrop JL. The mitochondrial myopathy encephalopathy, lactic acidosis with stroke-like episodes (MELAS) syndrome: a review of treatment options. CNS Drugs 2006; 20:443-64. [PMID: 16734497 DOI: 10.2165/00023210-200620060-00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondrial encephalomyopathies are a multisystemic group of disorders that are characterised by a wide range of biochemical and genetic mitochondrial defects and variable modes of inheritance. Among this group of disorders, the mitochondrial myopathy, encephalopathy, lactic acidosis with stroke-like episodes (MELAS) syndrome is one of the most frequently occurring, maternally inherited mitochondrial disorders. As the name implies, stroke-like episodes are the defining feature of the MELAS syndrome, often occurring before the age of 15 years. The clinical course of this disorder is highly variable, ranging from asymptomatic, with normal early development, to progressive muscle weakness, lactic acidosis, cognitive dysfunction, seizures, stroke-like episodes, encephalopathy and premature death. This syndrome is associated with a number of point mutations in the mitochondrial DNA, with over 80% of the mutations occurring in the dihydrouridine loop of the mitochondrial transfer RNA(Leu(UUR)) [tRNA(Leu)((UUR))] gene. The pathophysiology of the disease is not completely understood; however, several different mechanisms are proposed to contribute to this disease. These include decreased aminoacylation of mitochondrial tRNA, resulting in decreased mitochondrial protein synthesis; changes in calcium homeostasis; and alterations in nitric oxide metabolism. Currently, no consensus criteria exist for treating the MELAS syndrome or mitochondrial dysfunction in other diseases. Many of the therapeutic strategies used have been adopted as the result of isolated case reports or limited clinical studies that have included a heterogeneous population of patients with the MELAS syndrome, other defects in oxidative phosphorylation or lactic acidosis due to disorders of pyruvate metabolism. Current approaches to the treatment of the MELAS syndrome are based on the use of antioxidants, respiratory chain substrates and cofactors in the form of vitamins; however, no consistent benefits have been observed with these treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Scaglia
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
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15
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Mitochondrial respiratory chain disorders are the most prevalent group of inherited neurometabolic diseases. They present with central and peripheral neurological features usually in association with other organ involvement including the eye, the heart, the liver, and kidneys, diabetes mellitus and sensorineural deafness. Current treatment is largely supportive and the disorders progress relentlessly causing significant morbidity and premature death. Vitamin supplements, pharmacological agents and exercise therapy have been used in isolated cases and small clinical trials, but the efficacy of these interventions is unclear. OBJECTIVES To determine whether there is objective evidence to support the use of current treatments for mitochondrial disease. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched the Cochrane Neuromuscular Disease Group trials register (searched September 2003), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE (January 1966 to October 3 2003), EMBASE (January 1980 to October 3 2003) and the European Neuromuscular Centre (ENMC) clinical trials register, and contacted experts in the field. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (including crossover studies) and quasi-randomised trials comparing pharmacological treatments, and non-pharmacological treatments (vitamins and food supplements), and physical training in individuals with mitochondrial disorders. The primary outcome measures included an improvement in muscle strength and/or endurance, or neurological clinical features. Secondary outcome measures included quality of life assessments, biochemical markers of disease and negative outcomes. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Details of the number of randomised patients, treatment, study design, study category, allocation concealment and patient characteristics were extracted. Analysis was based on intention to treat data. We planned to use meta-analysis, but this did not prove necessary. MAIN RESULTS Six hundred and seventy-eight abstracts were reviewed, and six fulfilled the entry criteria. Two trials studied the effects of co-enzyme Q10 (ubiquinone), one reporting a subjective improvement and a significant increase in a global scale of muscle strength, but the other trial did not show any benefit. Two trials used creatine, with one reporting improved measures of muscle strength and post-exercise lactate, but the other reported no benefit. One trial of dichloroacetate showed an improvement in secondary outcome measures of mitochondrial metabolism, and one trial using dimethylglycine showed no significant effect. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There is currently no clear evidence supporting the use of any intervention in mitochondrial disorders. Further research is needed to establish the role of a wide range of therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Chinnery
- University of Newcastle upon Tyne, Department of Neurology, Medical School, Framlington Place, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK, NE24 4HH.
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16
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Tejerizo-García A, Hernández-Hernández L, Henríquez A, González-Rodríguez S, Ruiz M, Alcántara R, Martínez del Val M, Lanchares J, Tejerizo-López L. Enfermedades mitocondriales y gestación. CLINICA E INVESTIGACION EN GINECOLOGIA Y OBSTETRICIA 2005. [DOI: 10.1016/s0210-573x(05)73478-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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17
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Affiliation(s)
- Clifford W Shults
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, 92093, USA.
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18
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Berbel-Garcia A, Barbera-Farre JR, Etessam JP, Salio AM, Cabello A, Gutierrez-Rivas E, Campos Y. Coenzyme Q 10 Improves Lactic Acidosis, Strokelike Episodes, and Epilepsy in a Patient With MELAS (Mitochondrial Myopathy, Encephalopathy, Lactic Acidosis, and Strokelike episodes). Clin Neuropharmacol 2004; 27:187-91. [PMID: 15319706 DOI: 10.1097/01.wnf.0000137862.67131.bf] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondrial encephalomyopathies encompass a group of disorders that have impaired oxidative metabolism in skeletal muscles and central nervous system. Many compounds have been used in clinical trials on mitochondrial diseases, but the outcomes have been variable. It remains controversial whether treatment of mitochondrial diseases with coenzyme Q 10 is effective. This paper describes a case of mitochondrial myopathy, encephalopathy, lactic acidosis, strokelike episodes, and exercise intolerance successfully treated with coenzyme Q 10. Efficacy of this therapy in this patient is correlated to control of lactic acidosis and serum creatine kinase levels. Disappointingly, larger studies with coenzyme Q 10 failed to demonstrate a clear beneficial effect on the entire study population with regard to clinical improvement or several parameters of the oxidative metabolism. They suggest that the use of coenzyme Q in treatment of mitochondrial diseases should be confined to protocols. There is a confounding variation in phenotype and genotype, and the natural history of the disorders in individual patients is not accurately predictable. The unpredictable a priori efficacy of therapy suggests that a long-term trial of oral coenzyme Q may be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel Berbel-Garcia
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Mancha Centro, Alcazar de San Juan, Ciudad Real, Spain.
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Racine AC, Blanchot G, Le Vaillant C, Boog G. Grossesse chez une patiente atteinte de cytopathie mitochondriale. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004; 33:131-9. [PMID: 15052179 DOI: 10.1016/s0368-2315(04)96412-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
We report a case of a pregnant woman with a mitochondrial disorder affecting the energy-generating pathway of oxidative phosphorylation which was suggested when the patient presented the progressive clinical phenotype of a proximal tubular renal insufficiency, a muscular weakness of extremities, a bilateral optic neuropathy and a brain magnetic resonance imaging suggesting diffuse leucoencephalopathy. Her diagnosis was made on the basis of abnormal mitochondria on a muscle biopsy and of spectrophotometric deficiencies of the complexes I, II+III and IV of the respiratory chain. No specific molecular mutation could be detected. Her pregnancy was complicated by a severe preeclampsia, an insulin requiring gestational diabetes and a worrying renal failure which precipitated the premature delivery by cesarean section at 30 weeks gestation. The clinical course of the female neonate weighing 1030 grams was uneventful. At two Years of age she showed no sign of mitochondrial disease. But the postpartum course of the mother was complicated by seizures and a terminal renal failure leading presently to dialysis, but requiring a kidney transplantation in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- A-C Racine
- Service d'Obstétrique et de Médecine Foetale, Hôpital Mère et Enfant, CHU, Quai Moncousu, 44093 Nantes Cedex 1
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Affiliation(s)
- M Flint Beal
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, New York 10021, USA
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