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Kuruppath P, Xue L, Pouille F, Jones ST, Schoppa NE. Hyperexcitability in the Olfactory Bulb and Impaired Fine Odor Discrimination in the Fmr1 KO Mouse Model of Fragile X Syndrome. J Neurosci 2023; 43:8243-8258. [PMID: 37788940 PMCID: PMC10697393 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0584-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the single most common monogenetic cause of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in humans. FXS is caused by loss of expression of the fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP), an mRNA-binding protein encoded on the X chromosome involved in suppressing protein translation. Sensory processing deficits have been a major focus of studies of FXS in both humans and rodent models of FXS, but olfactory deficits remain poorly understood. Here, we conducted experiments in wild-type (WT) and Fmr1 knock-out (KO; Fmr1-/y ) mice (males) that lack expression of the gene encoding FMRP to assess olfactory circuit and behavioral abnormalities. In patch-clamp recordings conducted in slices of the olfactory bulb, output mitral cells (MCs) in Fmr1 KO mice displayed greatly enhanced excitation under baseline conditions, as evidenced by a much higher rate of occurrence of spontaneous network-level events known as long-lasting depolarizations (LLDs). The higher probability of spontaneous LLDs (sLLDs), which appeared to be because of a decrease in GABAergic synaptic inhibition in glomeruli leading to more feedforward excitation, caused a reduction in the reliability of stimulation-evoked responses in MCs. In addition, in a go/no-go operant discrimination paradigm, we found that Fmr1 KO mice displayed impaired discrimination of odors in difficult tasks that involved odor mixtures but not altered discrimination of monomolecular odors. We suggest that the Fmr1 KO-induced reduction in MC response reliability is one plausible mechanism for the impaired fine odor discrimination.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Fragile X syndrome (FXS) in humans is associated with a range of debilitating deficits including aberrant sensory processing. One sensory system that has received comparatively little attention in studies in animal models of FXS is olfaction. Here, we report the first comprehensive physiological analysis of circuit defects in the olfactory bulb in the commonly-used Fmr1 knock-out (KO) mouse model of FXS. Our studies indicate that Fmr1 KO alters the local excitation/inhibition balance in the bulb, similar to what Fmr1 KO does in other brain circuits, but through a novel mechanism that involves enhanced feedforward excitation. Furthermore, Fmr1 KO mice display behavioral impairments in fine odor discrimination, an effect that may be explained by changes in neural response reliability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praveen Kuruppath
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
| | - Lin Xue
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
| | - Frederic Pouille
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
| | - Shelly T Jones
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
| | - Nathan E Schoppa
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
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Lachiewicz AM, Stackhouse TM, Burgess K, Burgess D, Andrews HF, Choo TH, Kaufmann WE, Kidd SA. Sensory Symptoms and Signs of Hyperarousal in Individuals with Fragile X Syndrome: Findings from the FORWARD Registry and Database Multisite Study. J Autism Dev Disord 2023:10.1007/s10803-023-06135-y. [PMID: 37840096 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-023-06135-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
This study was designed to increase our understanding about characteristics and the impact of sensory symptoms (SS) and signs of hyperarousal (HA) in individuals with fragile X syndrome (FXS) from childhood through early adulthood and by gender. Data derived from the Fragile X Online Registry With Accessible Research Database (FORWARD), a natural history study of FXS, were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multivariate linear and logistic regression models to examine SS and signs of HA, their impact on behavioral regulation and limitations on the subject/family. The sample (N = 933) consisted of 720 males and 213 females. More males were affected with SS (87% vs. 68%) and signs of HA (92% vs. 79%). Subjects who were endorsed as having a strong sensory response had more comorbidities, including behavioral problems. The predominant SS was difficulty with eye gaze that increased with age in both genders. As individuals age, there was less use of non-medication therapies, such as occupational therapy (OT)/physical therapy (PT), but there was more use of psychopharmacological medications and investigational drugs for behaviors. Multiple regression models suggested that endorsing SS and signs of HA was associated with statistically significantly increased ABC-C-I subscale scores and limited participation in everyday activities. This study improves our understanding of SS and signs of HA as well as their impact in FXS. It supports the need for more research regarding these clinical symptoms, especially to understand how they contribute to well-known behavioral concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ave M Lachiewicz
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Health System, Durham, NC, USA.
| | | | | | - Debra Burgess
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Health System, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Howard F Andrews
- Departments of Psychiatry and Biostatistics, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tse-Hwei Choo
- Division of Mental Health Data Science, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Walter E Kaufmann
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Sharon A Kidd
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Ramappa S, Anderson A, Jung J, Chu R, Cummings KK, Patterson G, Okada NJ, Green SA. An Observed Assessment of Sensory Responsivity in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Associations with Diagnosis, Age, and Parent Report. J Autism Dev Disord 2023; 53:3860-3872. [PMID: 35927515 PMCID: PMC9898461 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05653-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Sensory features are common and impairing in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but there are few observational sensory assessments that are valid across ages. We used the Sensory Processing 3-Dimensional (SP3-D) observed Assessment and parent-reported Inventory to examine sensory responsivity in 41 ASD and 33 typically-developing (TD) youth across 7-17 years. ASD youth had higher and more variable observed and reported sensory responsivity symptoms compared to TD, but the two measures were not correlated. Observed sensory over-responsivity (SOR) and sensory craving (SC) decreased with age in ASD, though SOR remained higher in ASD versus TD through adolescence. Results suggest that in ASD, the SP3-D Assessment can identify SOR through adolescence, and that there is value in integrating multiple sensory measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sapna Ramappa
- Jane and Terry Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, 760 Westwood Plaza, 90095, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, 757 Westwood Plaza, 90095, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ariana Anderson
- Jane and Terry Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, 760 Westwood Plaza, 90095, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, 757 Westwood Plaza, 90095, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jiwon Jung
- Jane and Terry Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, 760 Westwood Plaza, 90095, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, 757 Westwood Plaza, 90095, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Robyn Chu
- Growing Healthy Children Therapy Services, 3498 Green Valley Road, Rescue, CA, USA
| | - Kaitlin K Cummings
- Department of Psychology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 235 E. Cameron Avenue, 27514, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Genevieve Patterson
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, 1200 Larimer Street, 80217, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Nana J Okada
- Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, 02115, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shulamite A Green
- Jane and Terry Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, 760 Westwood Plaza, 90095, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, 757 Westwood Plaza, 90095, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Ahmanson-Lovelace Brain Mapping Center, Jane and Terry Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, 660 Charles E. Young Drive South, 90095, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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Hunt E, Hogan A, Will EA, Roberts JE. ADHD and ASD symptoms in young males with fragile X syndrome: associations with early trajectories of inhibitory control. Child Neuropsychol 2023; 29:760-786. [PMID: 36082630 PMCID: PMC9995619 DOI: 10.1080/09297049.2022.2120605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Inhibitory control (IC), the ability to suppress inappropriate responses, emerges late in the first year of life and improves across typical development, concurrent with brain maturation. The development of IC is critical to various social-emotional and behavioral functions, with IC difficulties being linked to numerous neurodevelopmental disorders, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a single-gene disorder characterized by IC difficulties, and elevated rates of ADHD and ASD, making it a useful model for understanding the early development and consequences of IC. In this longitudinal study, we characterized IC trajectories across multiple time points between 16 and 71 months of age in young males with FXS (n = 79) relative to neurotypical (NT) controls (n=49). To explore the association between behavioral outcomes and IC, we identified a subsample of 50 children with longitudinal IC data and an outcome assessment for ADHD and ASD symptoms at age 5 (FXS: n = 26, NT: n = 24). Results indicated that, compared to their NT peers, young males with FXS exhibit differences in IC as early as 24 months, with group differences increasing through age 5. Additionally, we determined that lower IC levels at 24 months were associated with later ADHD symptoms and a decreasing slope in IC over time was associated with later ASD symptoms in male children with FXS. These findings help refine early developmental phenotypes of FXS and highlight IC as a potential target for early detection and intervention of ASD and ADHD symptoms in male children with FXS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Hunt
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Abigail Hogan
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Will
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Jane E Roberts
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
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Onesimo R, Sforza E, Giorgio V, Viscogliosi G, Kuczynska EM, Margiotta G, Perri L, Limongelli D, Proli F, De Rose C, Rigante D, Cerchiari A, Tartaglia M, Leoni C, Zampino G. The "FEEDS (FEeding Eating Deglutition Skills)" over Time Study in Cardiofaciocutaneous Syndrome. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1338. [PMID: 37510243 PMCID: PMC10379052 DOI: 10.3390/genes14071338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Feeding, eating and deglutition difficulties are key concerns in patients with cardiofaciocutaneous syndrome (CFCS). This study intends to quantify the development of feeding skills from birth to adulthood in patients with CFCS. Twenty-seven patients (eight males; mean age: 16.7 ± 8.3 years; median age: 15 years, age range: 1.5-38 years) with molecularly confirmed clinical diagnosis of CFCS were prospectively recruited from the Rare Disease Unit, Paediatrics Department, Fondazione Policlinico Agostino Gemelli-IRCCS, Rome, Italy, over a one-year period. Pathogenic variants along with key information regarding oro-motor features were collected. Sialorrhea was quantified using the Drooling Quotient 5. Feeding abilities were screened using the Italian version of the Montreal Children's Hospital Feeding Scale (I-MCH-FS). The oral sensory processing section of the Sensory Profile completed the assessment. Mild-to-profuse drooling was experienced by 25% of patients, and food taste selectivity was a constant during infancy (65%), with persistence even beyond adolescence. Nineteen percent of participants with long-term enteral feeding dependency had BRAF, KRAS and MAP2K1 mutations. These findings document that mealtime challenges in CFCS do not remain restricted only to the paediatric age, and that supportive care until adulthood plays a key role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Onesimo
- Center for Rare Diseases and Birth Defects, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Sforza
- Dipartimento Scienze della Vita e Sanità Pubblica, Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Cattolica del S. Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Giorgio
- Center for Rare Diseases and Birth Defects, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento Scienze della Vita e Sanità Pubblica, Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Cattolica del S. Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Germana Viscogliosi
- Center for Rare Diseases and Birth Defects, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Eliza Maria Kuczynska
- Center for Rare Diseases and Birth Defects, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Gaia Margiotta
- Center for Rare Diseases and Birth Defects, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Lucrezia Perri
- Center for Rare Diseases and Birth Defects, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Domenico Limongelli
- Center for Rare Diseases and Birth Defects, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Proli
- Center for Rare Diseases and Birth Defects, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina De Rose
- Center for Rare Diseases and Birth Defects, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Donato Rigante
- Center for Rare Diseases and Birth Defects, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento Scienze della Vita e Sanità Pubblica, Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Cattolica del S. Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Cerchiari
- Feeding and Swallowing Services Unit, Department of Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Tartaglia
- Molecular Genetics and Functional Genomics, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Leoni
- Center for Rare Diseases and Birth Defects, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Zampino
- Center for Rare Diseases and Birth Defects, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento Scienze della Vita e Sanità Pubblica, Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Cattolica del S. Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
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6
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Isralowitz EB, Sideris J, Stein Duker LI, Baranek GT, Cermak SA. Comparing sensory processing in children with Down syndrome to a mental age matched sample of children with autism, other developmental disabilities, and typically developing children. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2023; 134:104421. [PMID: 36638671 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2022.104421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atypical sensory processing impacts children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Research has focused on SP in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD); comparatively, little has been written regarding individuals with Down syndrome (DS) and IDDs. AIMS We compared patterns of sensory processing in children with DS to children with ASD, other IDDs, and typically developing (TD) peers examining the relationship among different sensory processing measures. METHODS AND PROCEDURES We analyzed cross-sectional data using two caregiver questionnaires (SP, SEQ) and one observational measure (SPA). Groups were compared on three sensory processing patterns: hyporesponsiveness; hyperresponsiveness; and sensory interests, repetitions, and seeking (SIRS) via ANOVA. We assessed concordance through correlations. OUTCOMES AND RESULTS Children with DS, IDD, and ASD demonstrated more atypical sensory processing behaviors than TD peers. Children with ASD exhibited the most atypical responses across all measures, significantly more than DS children on all but one subscale. The IDD and DS groups differed on several measures. Measurement concordance was higher between caregiver-report versus observational assessment. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Differences between three clinical groups indicate that sensory processing features may differ across clinical populations regardless of cognitive functioning. Lower concordance between caregiver-report and observation measures highlights the need to understand sensory processing expression across different tasks and environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth B Isralowitz
- Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, 1540 Alcazar St., CHP-133, Los Angeles, CA, 90089-9003, USA.
| | - John Sideris
- Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, 1540 Alcazar St., CHP-133, Los Angeles, CA, 90089-9003, USA
| | - Leah I Stein Duker
- Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, 1540 Alcazar St., CHP-133, Los Angeles, CA, 90089-9003, USA
| | - Grace T Baranek
- Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, 1540 Alcazar St., CHP-133, Los Angeles, CA, 90089-9003, USA
| | - Sharon A Cermak
- Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, 1540 Alcazar St., CHP-133, Los Angeles, CA, 90089-9003, USA
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7
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Zhu SI, McCullough MH, Pujic Z, Sibberas J, Sun B, Darveniza T, Bucknall B, Avitan L, Goodhill GJ. fmr1 Mutation Alters the Early Development of Sensory Coding and Hunting and Social Behaviors in Larval Zebrafish. J Neurosci 2023; 43:1211-1224. [PMID: 36596699 PMCID: PMC9962781 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1721-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are developmental in origin; however, little is known about how they affect the early development of behavior and sensory coding. The most common inherited form of autism is Fragile X syndrome (FXS), caused by a mutation in FMR1 Mutation of fmr1 in zebrafish causes anxiety-like behavior, hyperactivity, and hypersensitivity in auditory and visual processing. Here, we show that zebrafish fmr1-/- mutant larvae of either sex also display changes in hunting behavior, tectal coding, and social interaction. During hunting, they were less successful at catching prey and displayed altered behavioral sequences. In the tectum, representations of prey-like stimuli were more diffuse and had higher dimensionality. In a social behavioral assay, they spent more time observing a conspecific but responded more slowly to social cues. However, when given a choice of rearing environment fmr1-/- larvae preferred one with reduced visual stimulation, and rearing them in this environment reduced genotype-specific effects on tectal excitability. Together, these results shed new light on how fmr1-/- changes the early development of neural systems and behavior in a vertebrate.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are caused by changes in early neural development. Animal models of ASDs offer the opportunity to study these developmental processes in greater detail than in humans. Here, we found that a zebrafish mutant for a gene which in humans causes one type of ASD showed early alterations in hunting behavior, social behavior, and how visual stimuli are represented in the brain. However, we also found that mutant fish preferred reduced visual stimulation, and rearing them in this environment reduced alterations in neural activity patterns. These results suggest interesting new directions for using zebrafish as a model to study the development of brain and behavior in ASDs, and how the impact of ASDs could potentially be reduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuyu I Zhu
- Queensland Brain Institute
- Departments of Developmental Biology and Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri 63110
| | | | | | | | | | - Thomas Darveniza
- Departments of Developmental Biology and Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri 63110
| | | | | | - Geoffrey J Goodhill
- Queensland Brain Institute
- School of Mathematics and Physics, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
- Departments of Developmental Biology and Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri 63110
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Kalyanasundar B, Blonde GD, Spector AC, Travers SP. A Novel Mechanism for T1R-Independent Taste Responses to Concentrated Sugars. J Neurosci 2023; 43:965-978. [PMID: 36623875 PMCID: PMC9908317 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1760-22.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent findings from our laboratory demonstrated that the rostral nucleus of the solitary tract (rNST) retains some responsiveness to sugars in double-knock-out mice lacking either the T1R1+T1R3 (KO1+3) or T1R2+T1R3 (KO2+3) taste receptor heterodimers. Here, we extended these findings in the parabrachial nucleus (PBN) of male and female KO1+3 mice using warm stimuli to optimize sugar responses and employing additional concentrations and pharmacological agents to probe mechanisms. PBN T1R-independent sugar responses, including those to concentrated glucose, were more evident than in rNST. Similar to the NST, there were no "sugar-best" neurons in KO1+3 mice. Nevertheless, 1000 mm glucose activated nearly 55% of PBN neurons, with responses usually occurring in neurons that also displayed acid and amiloride-insensitive NaCl responses. In wild-type (WT) mice, concentrated sugars activated the same electrolyte-sensitive neurons but also "sugar-best" cells. Regardless of genotype, phlorizin, an inhibitor of the sodium-glucose co-transporter (SGLT), a component of a hypothesized alternate glucose-sensing mechanism, did not diminish responses to 1000 mm glucose. The efficacy of concentrated sugars for driving neurons broadly responsive to electrolytes implied an origin from Type III taste bud cells. To test this, we used the carbonic anhydrase (CA) inhibitor dorzolamide (DRZ), previously shown to inhibit amiloride-insensitive sodium responses arising from Type III taste bud cells. Dorzolamide had no effect on sugar-elicited responses in WT sugar-best PBN neurons but strongly suppressed them in WT and KO1+3 electrolyte-generalist neurons. These findings suggest a novel T1R-independent mechanism for hyperosmotic sugars, involving a CA-dependent mechanism in Type III taste bud cells.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Since the discovery of Tas1r receptors for sugars and artificial sweeteners, evidence has accrued that mice lacking these receptors maintain some behavioral, physiological, and neural responsiveness to sugars. But the substrate(s) has remained elusive. Here, we recorded from parabrachial nucleus (PBN) taste neurons and identified T1R-independent responses to hyperosmotic sugars dependent on carbonic anhydrase (CA) and occurring primarily in neurons broadly responsive to NaCl and acid, implying an origin from Type III taste bud cells. The effectiveness of different sugars in driving these T1R-independent responses did not correlate with their efficacy in driving licking, suggesting they evoke a nonsweet sensation. Nevertheless, these salient responses are likely to comprise an adequate cue for learned preferences that occur in the absence of T1R receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Kalyanasundar
- Division of Biosciences, College of Dentistry, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, 43210-1267
| | - Ginger D Blonde
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, 32306-4301
| | - Alan C Spector
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, 32306-4301
| | - Susan P Travers
- Division of Biosciences, College of Dentistry, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, 43210-1267
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9
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Wall CA, Shic F, Varanasi S, Roberts JE. Distinct social attention profiles in preschoolers with autism contrasted to fragile X syndrome. Autism Res 2023; 16:340-354. [PMID: 36408848 PMCID: PMC9957831 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Social attention is a critical skill for learning and development. Social attention difficulties are present in both non-syndromic autism spectrum disorder (nsASD) and fragile X syndrome (FXS), and our understanding of these difficulties is complicated by heterogeneity in both disorders, including co-occurring diagnoses like intellectual disability and social anxiety. Existing research largely utilizes a single index of social attention and rarely includes children with intellectual impairment or uses a cross-syndrome approach. This study investigated whether multi-trait social attention profiles including naturalistic initial eye contact, facial attention, and social scene attention differ in preschool children with nsASD and FXS matched on developmental ability (DQ) and contrasted to neurotypical (NT) controls. The relationship between DQ, ASD severity, and social anxiety and social attention profiles was also examined. Initial eye contact related to social scene attention, implicating that naturalistic social attention is consistent with responses during experimental conditions. Reduced eye contact and lower social scene attention characterized nsASD and FXS. Children with nsASD displayed less facial attention than FXS and NT children, who did not differ. Lower DQ and elevated ASD severity associated with decreased eye contact in nsASD and FXS, and lower DQ was associated with lower social scene attention in FXS. Sex, social anxiety, and age were not associated with social attention. These findings suggest social attention profiles of children with nsASD are highly similar to, yet distinct from, children with FXS. Children with nsASD may present with a global social attention deficit whereas FXS profiles may reflect context-dependent social avoidance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla A. Wall
- Duke University Medical Center, Center for Autism and Brain Development, 2424 Erwin Road, Suite 501, Durham, NC 27705
| | - Frederick Shic
- University of Washington, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, 1920 Terry Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
| | - Sreeja Varanasi
- University of South Carolina, School of Medicine, 6311 Garners Ferry Road, Columbia, SC 29209
| | - Jane E. Roberts
- University of South Carolina, Department of Psychology, 1512 Pendleton Street, Suite #220, Columbia, SC 29208
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Movaghar A, Page D, Brilliant M, Mailick M. Advancing artificial intelligence-assisted pre-screening for fragile X syndrome. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2022; 22:152. [PMID: 35689224 PMCID: PMC9185893 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-022-01896-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fragile X syndrome (FXS), the most common inherited cause of intellectual disability and autism, is significantly underdiagnosed in the general population. Diagnosing FXS is challenging due to the heterogeneity of the condition, subtle physical characteristics at the time of birth and similarity of phenotypes to other conditions. The medical complexity of FXS underscores an urgent need to develop more efficient and effective screening methods to identify individuals with FXS. In this study, we evaluate the effectiveness of using artificial intelligence (AI) and electronic health records (EHRs) to accelerate FXS diagnosis. METHODS The EHRs of 2.1 million patients served by the University of Wisconsin Health System (UW Health) were the main data source for this retrospective study. UW Health includes patients from south central Wisconsin, with approximately 33 years (1988-2021) of digitized health data. We identified all participants who received a code for FXS in the form of International Classification of Diseases (ICD), Ninth or Tenth Revision (ICD9 = 759.83, ICD10 = Q99.2). Only individuals who received the FXS code on at least two occasions ("Rule of 2") were classified as clinically diagnosed cases. To ensure the availability of sufficient data prior to clinical diagnosis to test the model, only individuals who were diagnosed after age 10 were included in the analysis. A supervised random forest classifier was used to create an AI-assisted pre-screening tool to identify cases with FXS, 5 years earlier than the time of clinical diagnosis based on their medical records. The area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) was reported. The AUROC shows the level of success in identification of cases and controls (AUROC = 1 represents perfect classification). RESULTS 52 individuals were identified as target cases and matched with 5200 controls. AI-assisted pre-screening tool successfully identified cases with FXS, 5 years earlier than the time of clinical diagnosis with an AUROC of 0.717. A separate model trained and tested on UW Health cases achieved the AUROC of 0.798. CONCLUSIONS This result shows the potential utility of our tool in accelerating FXS diagnosis in real clinical settings. Earlier diagnosis can lead to more timely intervention and access to services with the goal of improving patients' health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arezoo Movaghar
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1500 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53705, USA.
| | - David Page
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Murray Brilliant
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1500 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
| | - Marsha Mailick
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1500 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
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11
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Kat R, Arroyo-Araujo M, de Vries RBM, Koopmans MA, de Boer SF, Kas MJH. Translational validity and methodological underreporting in animal research: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the Fragile X syndrome (Fmr1 KO) rodent model. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 139:104722. [PMID: 35690123 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Predictive models are essential for advancing knowledge of brain disorders. High variation in study outcomes hampers progress. To address the validity of predictive models, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis on behavioural phenotypes of the knock-out rodent model for Fragile X syndrome according to the PRISMA reporting guidelines. In addition, factors accountable for the heterogeneity between findings were analyzed. The knock-out model showed good translational validity and replicability for hyperactivity, cognitive and seizure phenotypes. Despite low replicability, translational validity was also found for social behaviour and sensory sensitivity, but not for attention, aggression and cognitive flexibility. Anxiety, acoustic startle and prepulse inhibition phenotypes, despite low replicability, were opposite to patient symptomatology. Subgroup analyses for experimental factors moderately explain the low replicability, these analyses were hindered by under-reporting of methodologies and environmental conditions. Together, the model has translational validity for most clinical phenotypes, but caution must be taken due to low effect sizes and high inter-study variability. These findings should be considered in view of other rodent models in preclinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renate Kat
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 7, 9747 AG Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - María Arroyo-Araujo
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 7, 9747 AG Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Rob B M de Vries
- SYRCLE, Department for Health Evidence, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Centre, Geert Groteplein Zuid 21, 6525 EZ Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - Marthe A Koopmans
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 7, 9747 AG Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Sietse F de Boer
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 7, 9747 AG Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Martien J H Kas
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 7, 9747 AG Groningen, the Netherlands.
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12
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Holley A, Shedd A, Boggs A, Lovelace J, Erickson C, Gross C, Jankovic M, Razak K, Huber K, Gibson JR. A sound-driven cortical phase-locking change in the Fmr1 KO mouse requires Fmr1 deletion in a subpopulation of brainstem neurons. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 170:105767. [PMID: 35588990 PMCID: PMC9273231 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Sensory impairments commonly occur in patients with autism or intellectual disability. Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is one form of intellectual disability that is often comorbid with autism. In electroencephalographic (EEG) recordings obtained from humans with FXS, the ability of cortical regions to consistently synchronize, or “phase-lock”, to modulated auditory stimuli is reduced compared to that of typically developing individuals. At the same time, less time-locked, “non-phase-locked” power induced by sounds is higher. The same changes occur in the Fmr1 knockout (KO) mouse – an animal model of FXS. We determined if Fmr1 deletion in a subset of brainstem auditory neurons plays any role in these EEG changes in the mouse. Methods: We reinstated FMRP expression in a subpopulation of brainstem auditory neurons in an otherwise Fmr1 KO control (conditional on; cON Fmr1) mouse and used EEG recordings to determine if reinstatement normalized, or “rescued”, the phase-locking phenotype observed in the cON Fmr1 mouse. In determining rescue, this also meant that Fmr1 deletion in the same neuron population was necessary for the phenotype to occur. Results: We find that Fmr1 reinstatement in a subset of brainstem neurons rescues certain aspects of the phase-locking phenotype but does not rescue the increase in non-phase-locked power. Unexpectedly, not all electrophysiological phenotypes observed in the Fmr1 KO were observed in the cON Fmr1 mouse used for the reinstatement experiments, and this was likely due to residual expression of FMRP in these Fmr1 KO controls. Conclusions: Fmr1 deletion in brainstem neurons is necessary for certain aspects of the decreased phase-locking phenotype in the Fmr1 KO, but not necessary for the increase in non-phase-locked power induced by a sound. The most likely brainstem structure underlying these results is the inferior colliculus. We also demonstrate that low levels of FMRP can rescue some EEG phenotypes but not others. This latter finding provides a foundation for how symptoms in FXS individuals may vary due to FMRP levels and that reinstatement of low FMRP levels may be sufficient to alleviate particular symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- AndrewJ Holley
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Department of Neuroscience, Dallas, TX 75390-9111, USA
| | - Aleya Shedd
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Department of Neuroscience, Dallas, TX 75390-9111, USA
| | - Anna Boggs
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Jonathan Lovelace
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Craig Erickson
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Christina Gross
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Miranda Jankovic
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Department of Neuroscience, Dallas, TX 75390-9111, USA
| | - Khaleel Razak
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Kimberly Huber
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Department of Neuroscience, Dallas, TX 75390-9111, USA
| | - Jay R Gibson
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Department of Neuroscience, Dallas, TX 75390-9111, USA.
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13
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Curnow E, Wang Y. New Animal Models for Understanding FMRP Functions and FXS Pathology. Cells 2022; 11:1628. [PMID: 35626665 PMCID: PMC9140010 DOI: 10.3390/cells11101628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Fragile X encompasses a range of genetic conditions, all of which result as a function of changes within the FMR1 gene and abnormal production and/or expression of the FMR1 gene products. Individuals with Fragile X syndrome (FXS), the most common heritable form of intellectual disability, have a full-mutation sequence (>200 CGG repeats) which brings about transcriptional silencing of FMR1 and loss of FMR protein (FMRP). Despite considerable progress in our understanding of FXS, safe, effective, and reliable treatments that either prevent or reduce the severity of the FXS phenotype have not been approved. While current FXS animal models contribute their own unique understanding to the molecular, cellular, physiological, and behavioral deficits associated with FXS, no single animal model is able to fully recreate the FXS phenotype. This review will describe the status and rationale in the development, validation, and utility of three emerging animal model systems for FXS, namely the nonhuman primate (NHP), Mongolian gerbil, and chicken. These developing animal models will provide a sophisticated resource in which the deficits in complex functions of perception, action, and cognition in the human disorder are accurately reflected and aid in the successful translation of novel therapeutics and interventions to the clinic setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliza Curnow
- REI Division, Department of ObGyn, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Washington National Primate Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Yuan Wang
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
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14
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Chen YJ, Sideris J, Watson LR, Crais ER, Baranek GT. Developmental trajectories of sensory patterns from infancy to school age in a community sample and associations with autistic traits. Child Dev 2022; 93:e446-e459. [PMID: 35238019 DOI: 10.1111/cdev.13745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This prospective study examined the latent growth trajectories of sensory patterns among a North Carolina birth cohort (N = 1517; 49% boys, 87% White) across infancy (6-19 months), preschool (3-4 years), and school years (6-7 years). Change rates of sensory hyper- and hyporesponsiveness better differentiated children with an autism diagnosis or elevated autistic traits from those with other developmental conditions, including non-autistic children with sensory differences. More sensory hyper- and hyporesponsiveness at infancy followed by steeper increases differentially predicted more autistic traits at school age. Further, children of parents with higher education tended to show stable or improving trajectories. These findings highlight the importance of tracking sensory patterns from infancy for facilitating early identification of associated challenges and tailored support for families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Ju Chen
- Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - John Sideris
- Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Linda R Watson
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Elizabeth R Crais
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Grace T Baranek
- Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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15
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Liu X, Kumar V, Tsai NP, Auerbach BD. Hyperexcitability and Homeostasis in Fragile X Syndrome. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 14:805929. [PMID: 35069112 PMCID: PMC8770333 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.805929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is a leading inherited cause of autism and intellectual disability, resulting from a mutation in the FMR1 gene and subsequent loss of its protein product FMRP. Despite this simple genetic origin, FXS is a phenotypically complex disorder with a range of physical and neurocognitive disruptions. While numerous molecular and cellular pathways are affected by FMRP loss, there is growing evidence that circuit hyperexcitability may be a common convergence point that can account for many of the wide-ranging phenotypes seen in FXS. The mechanisms for hyperexcitability in FXS include alterations to excitatory synaptic function and connectivity, reduced inhibitory neuron activity, as well as changes to ion channel expression and conductance. However, understanding the impact of FMR1 mutation on circuit function is complicated by the inherent plasticity in neural circuits, which display an array of homeostatic mechanisms to maintain activity near set levels. FMRP is also an important regulator of activity-dependent plasticity in the brain, meaning that dysregulated plasticity can be both a cause and consequence of hyperexcitable networks in FXS. This makes it difficult to separate the direct effects of FMR1 mutation from the myriad and pleiotropic compensatory changes associated with it, both of which are likely to contribute to FXS pathophysiology. Here we will: (1) review evidence for hyperexcitability and homeostatic plasticity phenotypes in FXS models, focusing on similarities/differences across brain regions, cell-types, and developmental time points; (2) examine how excitability and plasticity disruptions interact with each other to ultimately contribute to circuit dysfunction in FXS; and (3) discuss how these synaptic and circuit deficits contribute to disease-relevant behavioral phenotypes like epilepsy and sensory hypersensitivity. Through this discussion of where the current field stands, we aim to introduce perspectives moving forward in FXS research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaopeng Liu
- Deparment of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science & Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Vipendra Kumar
- Deparment of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Nien-Pei Tsai
- Deparment of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Benjamin D. Auerbach
- Deparment of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science & Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
- *Correspondence: Benjamin D. Auerbach
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16
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Dominick KC, Andrews HF, Kaufmann WE, Berry-Kravis E, Erickson CA. Psychotropic Drug Treatment Patterns in Persons with Fragile X Syndrome. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol 2021; 31:659-669. [PMID: 34818076 DOI: 10.1089/cap.2021.0042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Psychiatric comorbidity is common in fragile X syndrome (FXS) and often addressed through pharmacological management. Here we examine data in the Fragile X Online Registry With Accessible Research Database (FORWARD) to characterize specific symptoms being treated with psychotropic medication, patterns of medication use, as well as the influence of gender, intellectual disability (ID), age, and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis. Methods: Data were drawn from the 975 participants who have a completed clinician form. We explored the frequency of psychotropic medication use for the following symptom clusters: attention, hyperactivity, anxiety, hypersensitivity, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), mood swings, irritability/agitation, aggression, and self-injury (IAAS). Results: A majority of participants (617 or 63.3%) were taking a psychotropic medication, including investigational drugs. Medications were often targeting multiple symptoms. Psychotropic medication use was more common in males, adolescents, and those with comorbid ID and ASD. Anxiety was the most frequently targeted symptom, followed by attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms and IAAS. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) were the most frequently prescribed medication class among all patients (n = 266, 43%), followed by stimulants (n = 235, 38%), each with no gender difference. Antipsychotics were the third most frequently prescribed medication class (n = 205, 33%), and were more frequently prescribed to males and those with ID and ASD. Conclusions: Anxiety, attention and hyperactivity were the most common symptom targets for psychopharmacologic intervention in FXS. Our results support clinical knowledge that males with comorbid ASD and ID have a more severe presentation requiring more intervention including medications. These results highlight the need for examination of symptom overlap and interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelli C Dominick
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.,Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Howard F Andrews
- Department of Biostatistics, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Walter E Kaufmann
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Elizabeth Berry-Kravis
- Department of Pediatrics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Department of Neurological Sciences, and Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Craig A Erickson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.,Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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17
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Guy MW, Black CJ, Hogan AL, Coyle RE, Richards JE, Roberts JE. A single-session behavioral protocol for successful event-related potential recording in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Dev Psychobiol 2021; 63:e22194. [PMID: 34674246 PMCID: PMC9523962 DOI: 10.1002/dev.22194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Event-related potentials (ERPs) are an ideal tool for measuring neural responses in a wide range of participants, including children diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). However, due to perceived barriers regarding participant compliance, much of this work has excluded children with low IQ and/or reduced adaptive functioning, significant anxiety symptoms, and/or sensory processing difficulties, including heterogeneous samples of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and children with fragile X syndrome (FXS). We have developed a behavioral support protocol designed to obtain high-quality ERP data from children in a single session. Using this approach, ERP data were successfully collected from participants with ASD, FXS, and typical development (TD). Higher success rates were observed for children with ASD and TD than children with FXS. Unique clinical-behavioral characteristics were associated with successful data collection across these groups. Higher chronological age, nonverbal mental age, and receptive language skills were associated with a greater number of valid trials completed in children with ASD. In contrast, higher language ability, lower autism severity, increased anxiety, and increased sensory hyperresponsivity were associated with a greater number of valid trials completed in children with FXS. This work indicates that a "one-size-fits-all" approach cannot be taken to ERP research on children with NDDs, but that a single-session paradigm is feasible and is intended to promote increased representation of children with NDDs in neuroscience research through development of ERP methods that support inclusion of diverse and representative samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maggie W. Guy
- Department of Psychology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60660, USA
| | - Conner J. Black
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Abigail L. Hogan
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Ramsey E. Coyle
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - John E. Richards
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Jane E. Roberts
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
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18
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Bullard L, Abbeduto L. Responsive Parenting as a Target for Telehealth Language Interventions in Fragile X Syndrome: Implications for Scalability and Best Practices. Semin Speech Lang 2021; 42:287-300. [PMID: 34311481 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1730989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
This review highlights the ways in which telehealth procedures can be implemented to help bridge the research-to-practice gap in supporting developmental outcomes for youth with fragile X syndrome (FXS). We review how the literature to date has informed potential treatment targets in the areas of speech and language development with a focus on understanding and supporting the dyadic relationship between the child and their biological mother, who is also impacted biologically. Notably, parental responsivity is an area that is strongly related to child language outcomes, both early and into adolescence, and thus, it is an important treatment target for subsequent interventions. To date, several parent-implemented interventions have been done in FXS across a broad age range (2-17-year-olds) all showing support not only that parents are successful in learning responsive strategies but also that there are subsequent impacts to child language development. Moreover, these interventions were successfully implemented at a distance through telehealth procedures including video teleconferencing and shared recordings of parent-child interactions. This review also addresses potential moderators of treatment gains. Implications for scaling such interventions in the future as well as best practices for incorporating telehealth procedures into future research and intervention programs are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Bullard
- MIND Institute, UC Davis Health, Sacramento, California.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, UC Davis Health, Sacramento, California
| | - Leonard Abbeduto
- MIND Institute, UC Davis Health, Sacramento, California.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, UC Davis Health, Sacramento, California
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19
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Movaghar A, Page D, Scholze D, Hong J, DaWalt LS, Kuusisto F, Stewart R, Brilliant M, Mailick M. Artificial intelligence-assisted phenotype discovery of fragile X syndrome in a population-based sample. Genet Med 2021; 23:1273-1280. [PMID: 33772223 PMCID: PMC8257481 DOI: 10.1038/s41436-021-01144-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Fragile X syndrome (FXS), the most prevalent inherited cause of intellectual disability, remains underdiagnosed in the general population. Clinical studies have shown that individuals with FXS have a complex health profile leading to unique clinical needs. However, the full impact of this X-linked disorder on the health of affected individuals is unclear and the prevalence of co-occurring conditions is unknown. METHODS We mined the longitudinal electronic health records from more than one million individuals to investigate the health characteristics of patients who have been clinically diagnosed with FXS. Additionally, using machine-learning approaches, we created predictive models to identify individuals with FXS in the general population. RESULTS Our discovery-oriented approach identified the associations of FXS with a wide range of medical conditions including circulatory, endocrine, digestive, and genitourinary, in addition to mental and neurological disorders. We successfully created predictive models to identify cases five years prior to clinical diagnosis of FXS without relying on any genetic or familial data. CONCLUSION Although FXS is often thought of primarily as a neurological disorder, it is in fact a multisystem syndrome involving many co-occurring conditions, some primary and some secondary, and they are associated with a considerable burden on patients and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arezoo Movaghar
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - David Page
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Danielle Scholze
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jinkuk Hong
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | | | - Ron Stewart
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Murray Brilliant
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Marshfield Clinic Research Institute, Marshfield, WI, USA
| | - Marsha Mailick
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
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20
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Osório JMA, Rodríguez-Herreros B, Romascano D, Junod V, Habegger A, Pain A, Richetin S, Yu P, Isidor B, Van Maldergem L, Pons L, Manificat S, Chabane N, Jequier Gygax M, Maillard AM. Touch and olfaction/taste differentiate children carrying a 16p11.2 deletion from children with ASD. Mol Autism 2021; 12:8. [PMID: 33546725 PMCID: PMC7863523 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-020-00410-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sensory processing atypicalities are frequent in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD). Different domains of sensory processing appear to be differentially altered in these disorders. In this study, we explored the sensory profile of two clinical cohorts, in comparison with a sample of typically developing children. Methods Behavioral responses to sensory stimuli were assessed using the Sensory Processing Measure (parent-report questionnaire). We included 121 ASD children, 17 carriers of the 16p11.2 deletion (Del 16p11.2) and 45 typically developing (TD) children. All participants were aged between 2 and 12 years. Additional measures included the Tactile Defensiveness and Discrimination Test-Revised, Wechsler Intelligence Scales and Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2). Statistical analyses included MANCOVA and regression analyses. Results ASD children score significantly higher on all SPM subscales compared to TD. Del16p11.2 also scored higher than TD on all subscales except for tactile and olfactory/taste processing, in which they score similarly to TD. When assessing sensory modulation patterns (hyper-, hypo-responsiveness and seeking), ASD did not significantly differ from del16p11.2. Both groups had significantly higher scores across all patterns than the TD group. There was no significant association between the SPM Touch subscale and the TDDT-R. Limitations Sensory processing was assessed using a parent-report questionnaire. Even though it captures observable behavior, a questionnaire does not assess sensory processing in all its complexity. The sample size of the genetic cohort and the small subset of ASD children with TDDT-R data render some of our results exploratory. Divergence between SPM Touch and TDDT-R raises important questions about the nature of the process that is assessed. Conclusions Touch and olfaction/taste seem to be particularly affected in ASD children compared to del16p11.2. These results indicate that parent report measures can provide a useful perspective on behavioral expression. Sensory phenotyping, when combined with neurobiological and psychophysical methods, might have the potential to provide a better understanding of the sensory processing in ASD and in other NDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Maria Almeida Osório
- CHUV-Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Service des Troubles du Spectre de l'Autisme et apparentés, Lausanne University Hospital, Les Allières - Av. Beaumont 23, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Borja Rodríguez-Herreros
- CHUV-Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Service des Troubles du Spectre de l'Autisme et apparentés, Lausanne University Hospital, Les Allières - Av. Beaumont 23, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - David Romascano
- CHUV-Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Service des Troubles du Spectre de l'Autisme et apparentés, Lausanne University Hospital, Les Allières - Av. Beaumont 23, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Vincent Junod
- CHUV-Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Service des Troubles du Spectre de l'Autisme et apparentés, Lausanne University Hospital, Les Allières - Av. Beaumont 23, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Aline Habegger
- CHUV-Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Service des Troubles du Spectre de l'Autisme et apparentés, Lausanne University Hospital, Les Allières - Av. Beaumont 23, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Aurélie Pain
- CHUV-Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Service des Troubles du Spectre de l'Autisme et apparentés, Lausanne University Hospital, Les Allières - Av. Beaumont 23, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sonia Richetin
- CHUV-Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Service des Troubles du Spectre de l'Autisme et apparentés, Lausanne University Hospital, Les Allières - Av. Beaumont 23, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Paola Yu
- CHUV-Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Service des Troubles du Spectre de l'Autisme et apparentés, Lausanne University Hospital, Les Allières - Av. Beaumont 23, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Laboratory for Investigative Neurophysiology (LINE), Department of Radiology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Lionel Van Maldergem
- Centre de Génétique Humaine, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire, Université de Franche-Comté, Besançon, France.,Unité de recherche en neurosciences intégratives et cognitives EA481, Université de Franche-Comté, Besançon, France.,Centre d'investigation clinique 1431, INSERM, Besançon, France
| | - Linda Pons
- Service Génopsy - Pôle Hospitalo-Universitaire ADIS, Centre hospitalier Le Vinatier, Bron, France
| | - Sabine Manificat
- CHUV-Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Service des Troubles du Spectre de l'Autisme et apparentés, Lausanne University Hospital, Les Allières - Av. Beaumont 23, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nadia Chabane
- CHUV-Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Service des Troubles du Spectre de l'Autisme et apparentés, Lausanne University Hospital, Les Allières - Av. Beaumont 23, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Marine Jequier Gygax
- CHUV-Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Service des Troubles du Spectre de l'Autisme et apparentés, Lausanne University Hospital, Les Allières - Av. Beaumont 23, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Anne Manuela Maillard
- CHUV-Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Service des Troubles du Spectre de l'Autisme et apparentés, Lausanne University Hospital, Les Allières - Av. Beaumont 23, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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21
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Hogan A, Hunt E, Smith K, Black C, Bangert K, Klusek J, Roberts J. Trajectories of Heart Activity Across Infancy to Early Childhood Differentially Predict Autism and Anxiety Symptoms in Fragile X Syndrome. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:727559. [PMID: 34690833 PMCID: PMC8526850 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.727559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a monogenic disorder characterized by high rates of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and anxiety. A longstanding "hyperarousal hypothesis" in FXS has argued that ANS dysfunction underpins many symptoms of FXS. However, the developmental onset and trajectory of ANS dysfunction, as well as the consequences of ANS dysfunction on later psychiatric symptoms, remain poorly understood in FXS. Insight into the emergence, trajectory, and consequences of ANS dysfunction across early development in FXS has critical implications for prevention, intervention, and optimal outcomes in both typical and atypical development. This longitudinal study investigated whether and when males with FXS evidence atypical ANS function from infancy through early childhood, and how trajectories of ANS function across infancy and early childhood predict ASD and anxiety symptom severity later in development. Methods: Participants included 73 males with FXS and 79 age-matched typically developing (TD) males. Baseline heart activity was recorded at multiple assessments between 3 and 83 months of age, resulting in 372 observations. General arousal and parasympathetic activity were indexed via interbeat interval (IBI) and respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), respectively. ASD and anxiety symptoms were assessed at 36 months of age or later in a subgroup of participants (FXS n = 28; TD n = 25). Results: Males with FXS exhibited atypical patterns of developmental change in ANS function across infancy and early childhood. As a result, ANS dysfunction became progressively more discrepant across time, with the FXS group exhibiting significantly shorter IBI and lower RSA by 29 and 24 months of age, respectively. Shorter IBI at 24 months and a flatter IBI slope across development predicted elevated anxiety symptoms, but not ASD symptoms, later in childhood in both FXS and TD males. Reduced RSA at 24 months predicted elevated ASD symptoms, but not anxiety symptoms, in both groups. Developmental change in RSA across early development did not predict later anxiety or ASD symptoms. Conclusion: This is the first longitudinal study to examine the "hyperarousal hypothesis" in infants and young children with FXS. Findings suggest that hyperarousal (i.e., shorter IBI, lower RSA) is evident in males with FXS by 24-29 months of age. Interestingly, unique aspects of early ANS function differentially relate to later ASD and anxiety symptoms. General arousal, indexed by shorter IBI that becomes progressively more discrepant from TD controls, predicts later anxiety symptoms. In contrast, parasympathetic-related factors, indexed by lower levels of RSA, predict ASD symptoms. These findings support the "hyperarousal hypothesis" in FXS, in that ANS dysfunction evident early in development predicts later-emerging symptoms of ASD and anxiety. This study also have important implications for the development of targeted treatments and interventions that could potentially mitigate the long-term effects of hyperarousal in FXS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Hogan
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States.,Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Erin Hunt
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Kayla Smith
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Conner Black
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Katherine Bangert
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States.,Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Jessica Klusek
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Jane Roberts
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
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22
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Ethridge L, Thaliath A, Kraff J, Nijhawan K, Berry-Kravis E. Development of Neural Response to Novel Sounds in Fragile X Syndrome: Potential Biomarkers. AMERICAN JOURNAL ON INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2020; 125:449-464. [PMID: 33211818 PMCID: PMC8631234 DOI: 10.1352/1944-7558-125.6.449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Auditory processing abnormalities in fragile X syndrome (FXS) may contribute to difficulties with language development, pattern identification, and contextual updating. Participants with FXS (N = 41) and controls (N = 27) underwent auditory event-related potentials during presentation of an oddball paradigm. Data was adequate for analysis for 33 participants with FXS and 27 controls (age 4-51 y, 13 females [FXS]; 4-54 y, 11 females [control]). Participants with FXS showed larger N1 and P2 amplitudes, abnormal lack of modulation of P1 and P2 amplitudes and P2 latency in response to oddball stimuli ) relative to controls: Females with FXS were more similar to controls. Participants with FXS showed a marginal speeding of the P2 latency, suggesting potentiation to oddball stimuli rather than habituation. Participants with FXS showed a heightened N1 habituation effect compared to controls. Gamma power was significantly higher for participants with FXS. Groups did not differ on mismatch negativity. Both controls and participants with FXS showed similar developmental trajectories in P1 and N1 amplitude, P2 latency, and gamma power, but not for P2 amplitude. One month retest analyses performed in 14 participants suggest strong test-retest reliability for most measures. Individuals with FXS show previously demonstrated increased response amplitude and high frequency neural activity. Despite an overall normal developmental trajectory for most measures, individuals with FXS show age-independent but gender-dependent decreases in complex processing of novel stimuli. Many markers show strong retest reliability even in children and thus are potential biomarkers for clinical trials in FXS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Ethridge
- Lauren Ethridge, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
| | - Andrew Thaliath
- Andrew Thaliath, Jeremy Kraff, Karan Nijhawan, and Elizabeth Berry-Kravis, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago
| | - Jeremy Kraff
- Andrew Thaliath, Jeremy Kraff, Karan Nijhawan, and Elizabeth Berry-Kravis, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago
| | - Karan Nijhawan
- Andrew Thaliath, Jeremy Kraff, Karan Nijhawan, and Elizabeth Berry-Kravis, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago
| | - Elizabeth Berry-Kravis
- Andrew Thaliath, Jeremy Kraff, Karan Nijhawan, and Elizabeth Berry-Kravis, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago
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23
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Heald M, Adams D, Oliver C. Profiles of atypical sensory processing in Angelman, Cornelia de Lange and Fragile X syndromes. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2020; 64:117-130. [PMID: 31828905 DOI: 10.1111/jir.12702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 09/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is growing evidence to suggest that children with neurodevelopmental disorders may evidence differences in their sensory processing. The aim of this study was to compare sensory processing patterns in three genetic syndromes associated with sensory difference. METHODS Sensory processing in Angelman syndrome (n = 91), Cornelia de Lange syndrome (n = 28) and Fragile X syndrome (n = 40) was examined using the informant report measure the Sensory Experiences Questionnaire (SEQ). RESULTS All three groups were associated with a heightened prevalence of unusual sensory processing in comparison with normative data, evidenced in over 80% of all participants. Cross-syndrome comparisons highlighted syndrome-specific sensory processing profiles, with heightened hypo responsivity in Cornelia de Lange syndrome and sensory seeking in Angelman syndrome. CONCLUSIONS The results have important implications for the understanding of sensory processing in genetic syndromes and the development of tailored behavioural interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Heald
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - D Adams
- Autism Centre of Excellence, School of Education and Professional Studies, Griffith University, Mount Gravatt, Queensland, Australia
- Griffith Institute for Educational Research, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - C Oliver
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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24
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Characterization of Auditory and Binaural Spatial Hearing in a Fragile X Syndrome Mouse Model. eNeuro 2020; 7:ENEURO.0300-19.2019. [PMID: 31953317 PMCID: PMC7031856 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0300-19.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 12/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The auditory brainstem compares sound-evoked excitation and inhibition from both ears to compute sound source location and determine spatial acuity. Although alterations to the anatomy and physiology of the auditory brainstem have been demonstrated in fragile X syndrome (FXS), it is not known whether these changes cause spatial acuity deficits in FXS. To test the hypothesis that FXS-related alterations to brainstem circuits impair spatial hearing abilities, a reflexive prepulse inhibition (PPI) task, with variations in sound (gap, location, masking) as the prepulse stimulus, was used on Fmr1 knock-out mice and B6 controls. Specifically, Fmr1 mice show decreased PPI compared with wild-type mice during gap detection, changes in sound source location, and spatial release from masking with no alteration to their overall startle thresholds compared with wild-type mice. Last, Fmr1 mice have increased latency to respond in these tasks, suggesting additional impairments in the pathway responsible for reacting to a startling sound. This study further supports data in humans with FXS that show similar deficits in PPI.
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25
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Ben-Sasson A, Gal E, Fluss R, Katz-Zetler N, Cermak SA. Update of a Meta-analysis of Sensory Symptoms in ASD: A New Decade of Research. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 49:4974-4996. [PMID: 31501953 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-019-04180-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
This meta-analysis updated evidence regarding sensory over-responsivity (SOR), under-responsivity (SUR) and seeking symptoms in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) relative to typical controls and those with other conditions. Fifty-five questionnaire studies included 4606 individuals with ASD. Moderators tested were age, IQ, male ratio, matching group, and self-report. Compared to typical controls, effect size was large and significant for SOR, SUR, and Seeking but heterogeneous. For Seeking, age, IQ and self-report were significant moderators. Compared with developmental disorders (DDs) groups, effect size was significantly positive for SOR and Seeking; whereas compared with other clinical groups, only SOR was significant. These findings highlight the core nature of sensory symptoms in ASD and particularly SOR. Explanatory factors are yet to be revealed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayelet Ben-Sasson
- Occupational Therapy Department, University of Haifa, Abba Khoushy Ave 199, 3498838, Haifa, Israel.
| | - Eynat Gal
- Occupational Therapy Department, University of Haifa, Abba Khoushy Ave 199, 3498838, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ronen Fluss
- Biostatistics and Biomathematics Department, The Gertner Institute, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, 52621, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Neta Katz-Zetler
- Occupational Therapy Department, University of Haifa, Abba Khoushy Ave 199, 3498838, Haifa, Israel
| | - Sharon A Cermak
- Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of South California, 1540 Alcazar St., CHP 133, Los Angeles, CA, 90089-900, USA
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26
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Gonzalez D, Tomasek M, Hays S, Sridhar V, Ammanuel S, Chang CW, Pawlowski K, Huber KM, Gibson JR. Audiogenic Seizures in the Fmr1 Knock-Out Mouse Are Induced by Fmr1 Deletion in Subcortical, VGlut2-Expressing Excitatory Neurons and Require Deletion in the Inferior Colliculus. J Neurosci 2019; 39:9852-9863. [PMID: 31666356 PMCID: PMC6891051 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0886-19.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common form of inherited intellectual disability and the leading monogenetic cause of autism. One symptom of FXS and autism is sensory hypersensitivity (also called sensory over-responsivity). Perhaps related to this, the audiogenic seizure (AGS) is arguably the most robust behavioral phenotype in the FXS mouse model-the Fmr1 knock-out (KO) mouse. Therefore, the AGS may be considered a mouse model of sensory hypersensitivity. Hyperactive circuits are hypothesized to underlie dysfunction in a number of brain regions in patients with FXS and Fmr1 KO mice, and the AGS may be a result of this. But the specific cell types and brain regions underlying AGSs in the Fmr1 KO are unknown. We used conditional deletion or expression of Fmr1 in different cell populations to determine whether Fmr1 deletion in those cells was sufficient or necessary, respectively, for the AGS phenotype in males. Our data indicate that Fmr1 deletion in glutamatergic neurons that express vesicular glutamate transporter 2 (VGlut2) and are located in subcortical brain regions is sufficient and necessary to cause AGSs. Furthermore, the deletion of Fmr1 in glutamatergic neurons of the inferior colliculus is necessary for AGSs. When we demonstrate necessity, we show that Fmr1 expression in either the larger population of VGlut2-expressing glutamatergic neurons or the smaller population of inferior collicular glutamatergic neurons-in an otherwise Fmr1 KO mouse-eliminates AGSs. Therefore, targeting these neuronal populations in FXS and autism may be part of a therapeutic strategy to alleviate sensory hypersensitivity.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Sensory hypersensitivity in fragile X syndrome (FXS) and autism patients significantly interferes with quality of life. Audiogenic seizures (AGSs) are arguably the most robust behavioral phenotype in the FXS mouse model-the Fmr1 knockout-and may be considered a model of sensory hypersensitivity in FXS. We provide the clearest and most precise genetic evidence to date for the cell types and brain regions involved in causing AGSs in the Fmr1 knockout and, more broadly, for any mouse mutant. The expression of Fmr1 in these same cell types in an otherwise Fmr1 knockout eliminates AGSs indicating possible cellular targets for alleviating sensory hypersensitivity in FXS and other forms of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Seth Hays
- Department of Neuroscience, Dallas, and
| | | | | | | | - Karen Pawlowski
- Department of Otolaryngology and Biomedical Engineering Program, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390-9035
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27
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Wall CA, Hogan AL, Will EA, McQuillin S, Kelleher BL, Roberts JE. Early negative affect in males and females with fragile X syndrome: implications for anxiety and autism. J Neurodev Disord 2019; 11:22. [PMID: 31519170 PMCID: PMC6744625 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-019-9284-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a genetic disorder that is highly comorbid with anxiety and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Elevated negative affect in young children has been associated with increased risk for both anxiety and ASD; however, these relations remain poorly understood in FXS. Methods The present prospective longitudinal study examined the trajectory of negative affect from infancy through preschool in males and females with FXS and typical development and its relation to anxiety and ASD. Results Results indicate a complex association reflecting group, developmental, and sex effects. Specifically, the group with FXS displayed a trajectory of increasing negative affect across age that was distinct from the typical controls. This atypical trajectory of negative affect in FXS was driven by sex effects in that males showed lower negative affect during infancy followed by steep increases across the toddler and preschool years whereas the females displayed a flatter trajectory. Finally, elevated negative affect predicted anxiety symptoms in males, but not females, with no relationship to ASD in males or females with FXS. Conclusions The current work addresses the importance of studying the development of psychopathology in a specific neurogenetic population. Temperamental negative affect was shown to be an important early marker for anxiety in young children with FXS, with subtle differences observed between males and females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla A Wall
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, 1512 Pendleton Street, Barnwell College, Suite #220, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA.
| | - Abigail L Hogan
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, 1512 Pendleton Street, Barnwell College, Suite #220, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Will
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, 1512 Pendleton Street, Barnwell College, Suite #220, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Samuel McQuillin
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, 1512 Pendleton Street, Barnwell College, Suite #220, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Bridgette L Kelleher
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, 703 Third Street, West Lafayette, IN, 47907-2081, USA
| | - Jane E Roberts
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, 1512 Pendleton Street, Barnwell College, Suite #220, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
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28
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Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that causes intellectual disability. It is a leading known genetic cause of autism. In addition to cognitive, social, and communication deficits, humans with FXS demonstrate abnormal sensory processing including sensory hypersensitivity. Sensory hypersensitivity commonly manifests as auditory, tactile, or visual defensiveness or avoidance. Clinical, behavioral, and electrophysiological studies consistently show auditory hypersensitivity, impaired habituation to repeated sounds, and reduced auditory attention in humans with FXS. Children with FXS also exhibit significant visuospatial impairments. Studies in infants and toddlers with FXS have documented impairments in processing texture-defined motion stimuli, temporal flicker, perceiving ordinal numerical sequence, and the ability to maintain the identity of dynamic object information during occlusion. Consistent with the observations in humans with FXS, fragile X mental retardation 1 ( Fmr1) gene knockout (KO) rodent models of FXS also show seizures, abnormal visual-evoked responses, auditory hypersensitivity, and abnormal processing at multiple levels of the auditory system, including altered acoustic startle responses. Among other sensory symptoms, individuals with FXS exhibit tactile defensiveness. Fmr1 KO mice also show impaired encoding of tactile stimulation frequency and larger size of receptive fields in the somatosensory cortex. Since sensory deficits are relatively more tractable from circuit mechanisms and developmental perspectives than more complex social behaviors, the focus of this review is on clinical, functional, and structural studies that outline the auditory, visual, and somatosensory processing deficits in FXS. The similarities in sensory phenotypes between humans with FXS and animal models suggest a likely conservation of basic sensory processing circuits across species and may provide a translational platform to not just develop biomarkers but also to understand underlying mechanisms. We argue that preclinical studies in animal models of FXS can facilitate the ongoing search for new therapeutic approaches in FXS by understanding mechanisms of basic sensory processing circuits and behaviors that are conserved across species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maham Rais
- 1 Division of Biomedical Sciences, University of California Riverside School of Medicine, CA, USA.,2 Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Devin K Binder
- 1 Division of Biomedical Sciences, University of California Riverside School of Medicine, CA, USA.,2 Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California Riverside, CA, USA.,3 Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Khaleel A Razak
- 2 Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California Riverside, CA, USA.,3 Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California Riverside, CA, USA.,4 Psychology Department, University of California Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Iryna M Ethell
- 1 Division of Biomedical Sciences, University of California Riverside School of Medicine, CA, USA.,2 Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California Riverside, CA, USA.,3 Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California Riverside, CA, USA
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29
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Pyrroloquinoline quinone improves abnormal functional development of whisker-mediated tactile perception and social behaviors caused by neonatal whisker trimming. Neurosci Lett 2019; 705:67-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2019.04.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Revised: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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30
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Fricano-Kugler C, Gordon A, Shin G, Gao K, Nguyen J, Berg J, Starks M, Geschwind DH. CYFIP1 overexpression increases fear response in mice but does not affect social or repetitive behavioral phenotypes. Mol Autism 2019; 10:25. [PMID: 31198525 PMCID: PMC6555997 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-019-0278-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background CYFIP1, a protein that interacts with FMRP and regulates protein synthesis and actin dynamics, is overexpressed in Dup15q syndrome as well as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). While CYFIP1 heterozygosity has been rigorously studied due to its loss in 15q11.2 deletion, Prader-Willi and Angelman syndrome, the effects of CYFIP1 overexpression, as is observed in patients with CYFIP1 duplication, are less well understood. Methods We developed and validated a mouse model of human CYFIP1 overexpression (CYFIP1 OE) using qPCR and western blot analysis. We performed a large battery of behavior testing on these mice, including ultrasonic vocalizations, three-chamber social assay, home-cage behavior, Y-maze, elevated plus maze, open field test, Morris water maze, fear conditioning, prepulse inhibition, and the hot plate assay. We also performed RNA sequencing and analysis on the basolateral amygdala. Results Extensive behavioral testing in CYFIP1 OE mice reveals no changes in the core behaviors related to ASD: social interactions and repetitive behaviors. However, we did observe mild learning deficits and an exaggerated fear response. Using RNA sequencing of the basolateral amygdala, a region associated with fear response, we observed changes in pathways related to cytoskeletal regulation, oligodendrocytes, and myelination. We also identified GABA-A subunit composition changes in basolateral amygdala neurons, which are essential components of the neural fear conditioning circuit. Conclusion Overall, this research identifies the behavioral and molecular consequences of CYFIP1 overexpression and how they contribute to the variable phenotype seen in Dup15q syndrome and in ASD patients with excess CYFIP1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Fricano-Kugler
- Semel Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095 USA
| | - Aaron Gordon
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Grace Shin
- Semel Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095 USA
| | - Kun Gao
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Jade Nguyen
- Semel Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095 USA
| | - Jamee Berg
- Semel Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095 USA
| | - Mary Starks
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Daniel H. Geschwind
- Program in Neurobehavioral Genetics, Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095 USA
- Center for Autism Research and Treatment, Semel Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095 USA
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095 USA
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31
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Neo WS, Tonnsen BL. Brief Report: Challenging Behaviors in Toddlers and Preschoolers with Angelman, Prader-Willi, and Williams Syndromes. J Autism Dev Disord 2019; 49:1717-1726. [PMID: 30542941 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-018-3853-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Children with neurogenetic syndromes (NGS) experience comorbid challenging behaviors and psychopathology. We examined challenging behaviors in 86 toddlers and preschoolers across three NGS [Angelman syndrome (AS), Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS), and Williams syndrome (WS)] and 43 low-risk controls (LRC), using the Child Behavior Checklist for Ages 1½-5. Challenging behavior profiles differed across NGS, with generally elevated behaviors in AS and WS, but not PWS, relative to LRC. Withdrawn and autism spectrum symptoms were particularly elevated in AS. Although several profiles were similar to those previously reported in older children and adults, we also observed inconsistencies that suggest non-linear developmental patterns of challenging behaviors. These findings underscore the importance of characterizing early challenging behaviors to inform atypical phenotypic development and targeted intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Siong Neo
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, 703 Third Street, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA.
| | - Bridgette L Tonnsen
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, 703 Third Street, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
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Ball NJ, Mercado E, Orduña I. Enriched Environments as a Potential Treatment for Developmental Disorders: A Critical Assessment. Front Psychol 2019; 10:466. [PMID: 30894830 PMCID: PMC6414413 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The beneficial effects of enriched environments have been established through a long history of research. Enrichment of the living conditions of captive animals in the form of larger cages, sensory stimulating objects, and opportunities for social interaction and physical exercise, has been shown to reduce emotional reactivity, ameliorate abnormal behaviors, and enhance cognitive functioning. Recently, environmental enrichment research has been extended to humans, in part due to growing interest in its potential therapeutic benefits for children with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). This paper reviews the history of enriched environment research and the use of enriched environments as a developmental intervention in studies of both NDD animal models and children. We argue that while environmental enrichment may sometimes benefit children with NDDs, several methodological factors need to be more closely considered before the efficacy of this approach can be adequately evaluated, including: (i) operationally defining and standardizing enriched environment treatments across studies; (ii) use of control groups and better control over potentially confounding variables; and (iii) a comprehensive theoretical framework capable of predicting when and how environmental enrichment will alter the trajectory of NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie J Ball
- Neural and Cognitive Plasticity Laboratory, Department of Psychology, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Eduardo Mercado
- Neural and Cognitive Plasticity Laboratory, Department of Psychology, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Itzel Orduña
- Department of School and Counseling Psychology, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, United States
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Goswami S, Cavalier S, Sridhar V, Huber KM, Gibson JR. Local cortical circuit correlates of altered EEG in the mouse model of Fragile X syndrome. Neurobiol Dis 2019; 124:563-572. [PMID: 30639292 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2019.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Revised: 01/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings in Fragile X syndrome (FXS) patients have revealed enhanced sensory responses, enhanced resting "gamma frequency" (30-100 Hz) activity, and a decreased ability for sensory stimuli to modulate cortical activity at gamma frequencies. Similar changes are observed in the FXS model mouse - the Fmr1 knockout. These alterations may become effective biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment of FXS. Therefore, it is critical to better understand what circuit properties underlie these changes. We employed Channelrhodopsin2 to optically activate local circuits in the auditory cortical region in brain slices to examine how changes in local circuit function may be related to EEG changes. We focused on layers 2/3 and 5 (L2/3 and L5). In Fmr1 knockout mice, light-driven excitation of L2/3 revealed hyperexcitability and increased gamma frequency power in both local L2/3 and L5 circuits. Moreover, there is increased synchrony in the gamma frequency band between L2/3 and L5. Hyperexcitability and increased gamma power were not observed in L5 with L5 light-driven excitation, indicating that these changes were layer-specific. A component of L2/3 network hyperexcitability is independent of ionotropic receptor mediated synaptic transmission and may be mediated by increased intrinsic excitability of L2/3 neurons. Finally, lovastatin, a candidate therapeutic compound for FXS that targets ERK signaling did not normalize changes in gamma activity. In conclusion, hyperactivity and increased gamma activity in local neocortical circuits, together with increased gamma synchrony between circuits, provide a putative substrate for EEG alterations observed in both FXS patients and the FXS mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonal Goswami
- Department of Basic Neuroscience, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, United States
| | - Sheridan Cavalier
- Department of Basic Neuroscience, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, United States
| | - Vinay Sridhar
- Department of Basic Neuroscience, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, United States
| | - Kimberly M Huber
- Department of Basic Neuroscience, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, United States.
| | - Jay R Gibson
- Department of Basic Neuroscience, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, United States.
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Sandoval GM, Shim S, Hong DS, Garrett AS, Quintin EM, Marzelli MJ, Patnaik S, Lightbody AA, Reiss AL. Neuroanatomical abnormalities in fragile X syndrome during the adolescent and young adult years. J Psychiatr Res 2018; 107:138-144. [PMID: 30408626 PMCID: PMC6249038 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2018.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Revised: 10/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Abnormal brain development and cognitive dysfunction have been reported both in children and in adults with fragile X syndrome (FXS). However, few studies have examined neuroanatomical abnormalities in FXS during adolescence. In this study we focus on adolescent subjects with FXS (N = 54) as compared to age- and sex-matched subjects with idiopathic intellectual disability (Comparison Group) (N = 32), to examine neuroanatomical differences during this developmental period. Brain structure was assessed with voxel-based morphometry and independent groups t-test in SPM8 software. Results showed that the FXS group, relative to the comparison group, had significantly larger gray matter volume (GMV) in only one region: the bilateral caudate nucleus, but have smaller GMV in several regions including bilateral medial frontal, pregenual cingulate, gyrus rectus, insula, and superior temporal gyrus. Group differences also were noted in white matter regions. Within the FXS group, lower FMRP levels were associated with less GMV in several regions including cerebellum and gyrus rectus, and less white matter volume (WMV) in pregenual cingulate, middle frontal gyrus, and other regions. Lower full scale IQ within the FXS group was associated with larger right caudate nucleus GMV. In conclusion, adolescents and young adults with FXS demonstrate neuroanatomical abnormalities consistent with those previously reported in children and adults with FXS. These brain variations likely result from reduced FMRP during early neurodevelopment and mediate downstream deleterious effects on cognitive function.
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Raspa M, Wylie A, Wheeler AC, Kolacz J, Edwards A, Heilman K, Porges SW. Sensory Difficulties in Children With an FMR1 Premutation. Front Genet 2018; 9:351. [PMID: 30233641 PMCID: PMC6127619 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2018.00351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Abnormal sensory processing is one of the core characteristics of the fragile X phenotype. Studies of young children with fragile X syndrome (FXS) and the FMR1 premutation have shown sensory challenges as early as infancy and into early childhood. This study sought to examine differences in sensory difficulties in children with an FMR1 premutation compared with children with FXS and typically developing children. We conducted an online survey of 176 parents of affected children (FXS or FMR1 premutation). Most respondents were mothers who are Caucasian (86%), have a 4-year college or graduate degree (68%), and are married (92%). Children ranged in age from 5 to 18, with a mean age of 13.0 years (3.3 SD). Participants completed the BBC Sensory Scales, a 50-item Likert-type scale (1 = Almost Always, 4 = Almost Never) comprised of 8 subscales that assessed auditory processing, visual processing, tactile processing, and eating and feeding behaviors. Mean scores were calculated for the items and each of the subscales. Non-parametric tests examined differences in child and family-level variables. Across all BBCSS subscales, children with an FMR1 premutation displayed more sensory challenges than typically developing children. For six out of the eight subscales, children with the full mutation had the lowest scores indicating more sensory challenges, but this was closely followed by children with an FMR1 premutation. Fragile X status was associated with seven of the eight subscales; children with an FMR1 premutation did not differ from children with FXS on any of the subscales but had more digestive problems than children with no fragile X. Gender, autism status, and family income were also related to sensory sensitivities. In conclusion, these data provide further evidence that some children with an FMR1 premutation experience sensory difficulties that are similar to children with FXS but different than typically developing children.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jacek Kolacz
- Traumatic Stress Research Consortium, Kinsey Institute, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | | | - Keri Heilman
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Stephen W Porges
- Traumatic Stress Research Consortium, Kinsey Institute, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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Kay RB, Gabreski NA, Triplett JW. Visual subcircuit-specific dysfunction and input-specific mispatterning in the superior colliculus of fragile X mice. J Neurodev Disord 2018; 10:23. [PMID: 29950161 PMCID: PMC6022700 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-018-9241-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sensory processing deficits are frequently co-morbid with neurodevelopmental disorders. For example, patients with fragile X syndrome (FXS), caused by a silencing of the FMR1 gene, exhibit impairments in visual function specific to the dorsal system, which processes motion information. However, the developmental and circuit mechanisms underlying this deficit remain unclear. Recently, the superior colliculus (SC), a midbrain structure regulating head and eye movements, has emerged as a model for dissecting visual circuit development and function. Previous studies have demonstrated a critical role for activity-dependent processes in the development of visual circuitry in the SC. Based on the known role of the FMR1 gene product in activity-dependent synaptic plasticity, we explored the function and organization of visual circuits in the SC of a mouse model of FXS (Fmr1-/y). METHODS We utilized in vivo extracellular electrophysiology in combination with computer-controlled visual stimuli to determine the receptive field properties of visual neurons in the SC of control and Fmr1-/y mice. In addition, we utilized anatomical tracing methods to assess the organization of visual inputs to the SC and along the retinogeniculocortical pathway. RESULTS Receptive fields of visual neurons in the SC of Fmr1-/y mice were significantly larger than those found in control animals, though their shape and structure were unaffected. Further, selectivity for direction of movement was decreased, while selectivity to axis of movement was unchanged. Interestingly, axis-selective (AS) neurons exhibited a specific hyperexcitability in comparison to AS neurons in control SC and to direction-selective (DS) neurons in both control and Fmr1-/y SC. Anatomical tracings revealed that retinocollicular, retinogeniculate, and geniculocortical projections were normally organized in the absence of Fmr1. However, projections from primary visual cortex (V1) to the SC were poorly refined. CONCLUSIONS Fmr1 is required for the proper development of visual circuit organization and function in the SC. We find that visual dysfunction is heterogeneously manifested in a subcircuit-specific manner in Fmr1-/y mice, consistent with previous studies in human FXS patients. Further, we show a specific alteration of inputs to the SC from V1, but not the retina. Together, these data suggest that Fmr1 may function in distinct ways during the development of different visual subcircuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel B Kay
- Center for Neuroscience Research, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Nicole A Gabreski
- Center for Neuroscience Research, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jason W Triplett
- Center for Neuroscience Research, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA. .,Departments of Pediatrics and Pharmacology & Physiology, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA.
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Bittker SS, Bell KR. Acetaminophen, antibiotics, ear infection, breastfeeding, vitamin D drops, and autism: an epidemiological study. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2018; 14:1399-1414. [PMID: 29910617 PMCID: PMC5987866 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s158811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While many studies have examined environmental risk factors for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), much of the research focus has been on prenatal or perinatal factors. Yet, the postnatal environment may affect the risk of ASD as well. OBJECTIVE To determine whether a set of five postnatal variables are associated with ASD. These variables are: acetaminophen exposure, antibiotic exposure, incidence of ear infection, decreased duration of breastfeeding, and decreased consumption of oral vitamin D drops. MATERIALS AND METHODS An Internet-based survey was conducted. Participants were parents living in the USA with at least one biological child between 3 and 12 years of age. Potential participants were informed about the survey via postings on social media, websites, and listservs and were offered an opportunity to participate in a raffle as well. Participants were also recruited through the Interactive Autism Network. RESULTS There were 1,741 completed survey responses. After exclusions, there remained 1,001 responses associated with children with ASD (cases) and 514 responses associated with children who do not have ASD (controls). In this data set, doses of postnatal acetaminophen (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.016, CI: 1.003-1.032, p=0.026), courses of postnatal antibiotics (aOR 1.103, CI: 1.046-1.168, p<0.001), incidence of postnatal ear infection (aOR 1.137, CI: 1.046-1.236, p=0.003), and decreased duration of breastfeeding (aOR 0.948, CI: 0.932-0.965, p<0.001) are all associated with ASD when adjusted for eight demographic variables. A weak association between oral vitamin D drop exposure and ASD was also found when adjusted for breastfeeding and demographics (aOR 1.025, CI: 0.995-1.056, p=0.102). CONCLUSION This study adds to evidence that postnatal acetaminophen use, postnatal antibiotic use, incidence of ear infection, and early weaning are associated with an increased risk of ASD. It also finds that postnatal oral vitamin D drops are weakly associated with ASD when adjusted for breastfeeding and demographics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth Scott Bittker
- Interdisciplinary Center for Innovative Theory and Empirics (INCITE), Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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Dominick KC, Wink LK, Pedapati EV, Shaffer R, Sweeney JA, Erickson CA. Risperidone Treatment for Irritability in Fragile X Syndrome. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol 2018; 28:274-278. [PMID: 29394101 DOI: 10.1089/cap.2017.0057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The goal of this study was to assess the effectiveness of risperidone monoantipsychotic therapy targeting irritability in patients with Fragile X syndrome (FXS) in a naturalistic outpatient clinical setting. METHODS We examined the use of risperidone, predominantly in combination with other nonantipsychotic psychotropic agents, targeting irritability in 21 male patients with FXS with a retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected large developmental disabilities-specific treatment database. Mean age at start of treatment, treatment duration, final dose, body mass index (BMI), and Clinical Global Impressions-Improvement (CGI-I) Scale score at final visit were determined, and changes with treatment were analyzed using paired t-tests. RESULTS Mean age at start of treatment was 14.0 years. The final mean dose of risperidone was 2.5 mg/day. The mean duration of treatment was 22 months. Seven (33.33%) participants were considered treatment responders based on the CGI-I. Change in BMI between initiation and cessation of treatment episode was not significant, however, these data were only available for a subset (n = 11) of patients. CONCLUSIONS Risperidone may be effective in the treatment of irritability in males with FXS. The overall effectiveness of monoantipsychotic treatment with risperidone was limited in this study compared with previous published reports; however, this may be the result of differences in outcome measures as well as a reflection of the level of functioning and severity of irritability in this sample.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelli C Dominick
- 1 Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center , Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Logan K Wink
- 1 Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center , Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Ernest V Pedapati
- 1 Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center , Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Rebecca Shaffer
- 1 Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center , Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - John A Sweeney
- 2 Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati , Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Craig A Erickson
- 1 Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center , Cincinnati, Ohio
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Weisman H, Parush S, Apter A, Fennig S, Benaroya-Milshtein N, Steinberg T. A study of sensory dysregulation in children with tic disorders. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2018; 125:1077-1085. [DOI: 10.1007/s00702-018-1858-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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40
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Kolacz J, Raspa M, Heilman KJ, Porges SW. Evaluating Sensory Processing in Fragile X Syndrome: Psychometric Analysis of the Brain Body Center Sensory Scales (BBCSS). J Autism Dev Disord 2018; 48:2187-2202. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-018-3491-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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41
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Knoth IS, Lajnef T, Rigoulot S, Lacourse K, Vannasing P, Michaud JL, Jacquemont S, Major P, Jerbi K, Lippé S. Auditory repetition suppression alterations in relation to cognitive functioning in fragile X syndrome: a combined EEG and machine learning approach. J Neurodev Disord 2018; 10:4. [PMID: 29378522 PMCID: PMC5789548 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-018-9223-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a neurodevelopmental genetic disorder causing cognitive and behavioural deficits. Repetition suppression (RS), a learning phenomenon in which stimulus repetitions result in diminished brain activity, has been found to be impaired in FXS. Alterations in RS have been associated with behavioural problems in FXS; however, relations between RS and intellectual functioning have not yet been elucidated. Methods EEG was recorded in 14 FXS participants and 25 neurotypical controls during an auditory habituation paradigm using repeatedly presented pseudowords. Non-phased locked signal energy was compared across presentations and between groups using linear mixed models (LMMs) in order to investigate RS effects across repetitions and brain areas and a possible relation to non-verbal IQ (NVIQ) in FXS. In addition, we explored group differences according to NVIQ and we probed the feasibility of training a support vector machine to predict cognitive functioning levels across FXS participants based on single-trial RS features. Results LMM analyses showed that repetition effects differ between groups (FXS vs. controls) as well as with respect to NVIQ in FXS. When exploring group differences in RS patterns, we found that neurotypical controls revealed the expected pattern of RS between the first and second presentations of a pseudoword. More importantly, while FXS participants in the ≤ 42 NVIQ group showed no RS, the > 42 NVIQ group showed a delayed RS response after several presentations. Concordantly, single-trial estimates of repetition effects over the first four repetitions provided the highest decoding accuracies in the classification between the FXS participant groups. Conclusion Electrophysiological measures of repetition effects provide a non-invasive and unbiased measure of brain responses sensitive to cognitive functioning levels, which may be useful for clinical trials in FXS. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s11689-018-9223-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inga Sophia Knoth
- Neuroscience of Early Development (NED), 90 Avenue Vincent-D'indy, Montreal, QC, H2V 2S9, Canada. .,Research Center of the CHU Sainte-Justine Mother and Child University Hospital Center, 3175 Chemin Côte Ste-Catherine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1C5, Canada.
| | - Tarek Lajnef
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, 90 Avenue Vincent-D'indy, Montreal, QC, H2V 2S9, Canada.,Centre de Recherche en Neuropsychologie et Cognition (CERNEC), 90 Avenue Vincent-D'indy, Montreal, QC, H2V 2S9, Canada
| | - Simon Rigoulot
- Neuroscience of Early Development (NED), 90 Avenue Vincent-D'indy, Montreal, QC, H2V 2S9, Canada.,Research Center of the CHU Sainte-Justine Mother and Child University Hospital Center, 3175 Chemin Côte Ste-Catherine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1C5, Canada.,Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, 90 Avenue Vincent-D'indy, Montreal, QC, H2V 2S9, Canada.,Centre de Recherche en Neuropsychologie et Cognition (CERNEC), 90 Avenue Vincent-D'indy, Montreal, QC, H2V 2S9, Canada.,International Laboratory for Brain, Music and Sound Research (BRAMS), 1430 Boul Mont-Royal, Montreal, QC, H2V 2J2, Canada
| | - Karine Lacourse
- Research Center of the CHU Sainte-Justine Mother and Child University Hospital Center, 3175 Chemin Côte Ste-Catherine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Phetsamone Vannasing
- Research Center of the CHU Sainte-Justine Mother and Child University Hospital Center, 3175 Chemin Côte Ste-Catherine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Jacques L Michaud
- Research Center of the CHU Sainte-Justine Mother and Child University Hospital Center, 3175 Chemin Côte Ste-Catherine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1C5, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, 2900 boulevard Édouard-Montpetit, Montréal, QC, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Sébastien Jacquemont
- Research Center of the CHU Sainte-Justine Mother and Child University Hospital Center, 3175 Chemin Côte Ste-Catherine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Philippe Major
- Research Center of the CHU Sainte-Justine Mother and Child University Hospital Center, 3175 Chemin Côte Ste-Catherine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Karim Jerbi
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, 90 Avenue Vincent-D'indy, Montreal, QC, H2V 2S9, Canada.,Centre de Recherche en Neuropsychologie et Cognition (CERNEC), 90 Avenue Vincent-D'indy, Montreal, QC, H2V 2S9, Canada.,International Laboratory for Brain, Music and Sound Research (BRAMS), 1430 Boul Mont-Royal, Montreal, QC, H2V 2J2, Canada.,Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal (CRIUSMM), 7401 Rue Hochelaga, Montréal, QC, H1N 3M5, Canada.,Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Gériatrie de Montréal (CRIUGM), 4565, chemin Queen-Mary, Montreal, QC, H3W 1W5, Canada
| | - Sarah Lippé
- Neuroscience of Early Development (NED), 90 Avenue Vincent-D'indy, Montreal, QC, H2V 2S9, Canada.,Research Center of the CHU Sainte-Justine Mother and Child University Hospital Center, 3175 Chemin Côte Ste-Catherine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1C5, Canada.,Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, 90 Avenue Vincent-D'indy, Montreal, QC, H2V 2S9, Canada.,Centre de Recherche en Neuropsychologie et Cognition (CERNEC), 90 Avenue Vincent-D'indy, Montreal, QC, H2V 2S9, Canada.,International Laboratory for Brain, Music and Sound Research (BRAMS), 1430 Boul Mont-Royal, Montreal, QC, H2V 2J2, Canada
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Crawford H, Waite J, Oliver C. Diverse Profiles of Anxiety Related Disorders in Fragile X, Cornelia de Lange and Rubinstein-Taybi Syndromes. J Autism Dev Disord 2017; 47:3728-3740. [PMID: 28144878 PMCID: PMC5676833 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-016-3015-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Anxiety disorders are heightened in specific genetic syndromes in comparison to intellectual disability of heterogeneous aetiology. In this study, we described and contrasted anxiety symptomatology in fragile X (FXS), Cornelia de Lange (CdLS) and Rubinstein-Taybi syndromes (RTS), and compared the symptomatology to normative data for typically-developing children and children diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. Scores did not differ between children diagnosed with an anxiety disorder and (a) participants with FXS on social phobia, panic/agoraphobia, physical injury fears, and obsessive-compulsive subscales (b) participants with CdLS on separation anxiety, generalized anxiety, panic/agoraphobia, physical injury fears and obsessive-compulsive subscales, and (c) participants with RTS on panic/agoraphobia and obsessive-compulsive subscales. The results highlight divergent profiles of anxiety symptomatology between these groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley Crawford
- Centre for Research in Psychology, Behaviour and Achievement, Coventry University, James Starley Building (JSG12), Priory Street, Coventry, CV1 5FB, UK.
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Jane Waite
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Chris Oliver
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
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Pyronneau A, He Q, Hwang JY, Porch M, Contractor A, Zukin RS. Aberrant Rac1-cofilin signaling mediates defects in dendritic spines, synaptic function, and sensory perception in fragile X syndrome. Sci Signal 2017; 10:10/504/eaan0852. [PMID: 29114038 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.aan0852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common inherited cause of intellectual disabilities and a leading cause of autism. FXS is caused by a trinucleotide expansion in the gene FMR1 on the X chromosome. The neuroanatomical hallmark of FXS is an overabundance of immature dendritic spines, a factor thought to underlie synaptic dysfunction and impaired cognition. We showed that aberrantly increased activity of the Rho GTPase Rac1 inhibited the actin-depolymerizing factor cofilin, a major determinant of dendritic spine structure, and caused disease-associated spine abnormalities in the somatosensory cortex of FXS model mice. Increased cofilin phosphorylation and actin polymerization coincided with abnormal dendritic spines and impaired synaptic maturation. Viral delivery of a constitutively active cofilin mutant (cofilinS3A) into the somatosensory cortex of Fmr1-deficient mice rescued the immature dendritic spine phenotype and increased spine density. Inhibition of the Rac1 effector PAK1 with a small-molecule inhibitor rescued cofilin signaling in FXS mice, indicating a causal relationship between PAK1 and cofilin signaling. PAK1 inhibition rescued synaptic signaling (specifically the synaptic ratio of NMDA/AMPA in layer V pyramidal neurons) and improved sensory processing in FXS mice. These findings suggest a causal relationship between increased Rac1-cofilin signaling, synaptic defects, and impaired sensory processing in FXS and uncover a previously unappreciated role for impaired Rac1-cofilin signaling in the aberrant spine morphology and spine density associated with FXS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Pyronneau
- Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA
| | - Qionger He
- Department of Physiology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Jee-Yeon Hwang
- Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA
| | - Morgan Porch
- Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA
| | - Anis Contractor
- Department of Physiology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.,Department of Neurobiology, Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - R Suzanne Zukin
- Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA.
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Dunn W, Little L, Dean E, Robertson S, Evans B. The State of the Science on Sensory Factors and Their Impact on Daily Life for Children: A Scoping Review. OTJR-OCCUPATION PARTICIPATION AND HEALTH 2017; 36:3S-26S. [PMID: 27504990 DOI: 10.1177/1539449215617923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to identify and synthesize research about how sensory factors affect daily life of children. We designed a conceptual model to guide a scoping review of research published from 2005 to October 2014 (10 years). We searched MEDLINE, CINAHL, and PsycINFO and included studies about sensory perception/processing; children, adolescents/young adults; and participation. We excluded studies about animals, adults, and review articles. Our process resulted in 261 articles meeting criteria. Research shows that children with conditions process sensory input differently than peers. Neuroscience evidence supports the relationship between sensory-related behaviors and brain activity. Studies suggest that sensory processing is linked to social participation, cognition, temperament, and participation. Intervention research illustrates the importance of contextually relevant practices. Future work can examine the developmental course of sensory processing aspects of behavior across the general population and focus on interventions that support children's sensory processing as they participate in their daily lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winnie Dunn
- University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Lauren Little
- University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Evan Dean
- University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Sara Robertson
- University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Benjamin Evans
- University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
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Sinclair D, Oranje B, Razak KA, Siegel SJ, Schmid S. Sensory processing in autism spectrum disorders and Fragile X syndrome-From the clinic to animal models. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2017; 76:235-253. [PMID: 27235081 PMCID: PMC5465967 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.05.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2015] [Revised: 04/08/2016] [Accepted: 05/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Brains are constantly flooded with sensory information that needs to be filtered at the pre-attentional level and integrated into endogenous activity in order to allow for detection of salient information and an appropriate behavioral response. People with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) are often over- or under-reactive to stimulation, leading to a wide range of behavioral symptoms. This altered sensitivity may be caused by disrupted sensory processing, signal integration and/or gating, and is often being neglected. Here, we review translational experimental approaches that are used to investigate sensory processing in humans with ASD and FXS, and in relevant rodent models. This includes electroencephalographic measurement of event related potentials, neural oscillations and mismatch negativity, as well as habituation and pre-pulse inhibition of startle. We outline robust evidence of disrupted sensory processing in individuals with ASD and FXS, and in respective animal models, focusing on the auditory sensory domain. Animal models provide an excellent opportunity to examine common mechanisms of sensory pathophysiology in order to develop therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Sinclair
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, 125 S 31st St., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - B Oranje
- Department of Psychiatry, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, HP A 01.126 Heidelberglaan 100, CX Utrecht, 3584, The Netherlands; Center for Neuropsychiatric Schizophrenia Research (CNSR) and Center for Clinical Intervention and Neuropsychiatric Schizophrenia Research (CINS), Copenhagen University Hospital, Psychiatric Center Glostrup, Ndr. Ringvej 29-67, Glostrup, 2600, Denmark; Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Neurology, Psychiatry, and Sensory Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - K A Razak
- Psychology Department, University of California Riverside, 900 University Avenue, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - S J Siegel
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, 125 S 31st St., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - S Schmid
- Anatomy & Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, MSB 470, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada.
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Sinclair D, Featherstone R, Naschek M, Nam J, Du A, Wright S, Pance K, Melnychenko O, Weger R, Akuzawa S, Matsumoto M, Siegel SJ. GABA-B Agonist Baclofen Normalizes Auditory-Evoked Neural Oscillations and Behavioral Deficits in the Fmr1 Knockout Mouse Model of Fragile X Syndrome. eNeuro 2017; 4:ENEURO.0380-16.2017. [PMID: 28451631 PMCID: PMC5394929 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0380-16.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Revised: 02/09/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome is a genetic condition resulting from FMR1 gene mutation that leads to intellectual disability, autism-like symptoms, and sensory hypersensitivity. Arbaclofen, a GABA-B agonist, has shown efficacy in some individuals with FXS but has become unavailable after unsuccessful clinical trials, prompting interest in publicly available, racemic baclofen. The present study investigated whether racemic baclofen can remediate abnormalities of neural circuit function, sensory processing, and behavior in Fmr1 knockout mice, a rodent model of fragile X syndrome. Fmr1 knockout mice showed increased baseline and auditory-evoked high-frequency gamma (30-80 Hz) power relative to C57BL/6 controls, as measured by electroencephalography. These deficits were accompanied by decreased T maze spontaneous alternation, decreased social interactions, and increased open field center time, suggestive of diminished working memory, sociability, and anxiety-like behavior, respectively. Abnormal auditory-evoked gamma oscillations, working memory, and anxiety-related behavior were normalized by treatment with baclofen, but impaired sociability was not. Improvements in working memory were evident predominantly in mice whose auditory-evoked gamma oscillations were dampened by baclofen. These findings suggest that racemic baclofen may be useful for targeting sensory and cognitive disturbances in fragile X syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Sinclair
- Translational Neuroscience Program Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - R Featherstone
- Translational Neuroscience Program Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - M Naschek
- Translational Neuroscience Program Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - J Nam
- Translational Neuroscience Program Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - A Du
- Translational Neuroscience Program Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - S Wright
- Translational Neuroscience Program Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - K Pance
- Translational Neuroscience Program Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - O Melnychenko
- Translational Neuroscience Program Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - R Weger
- Translational Neuroscience Program Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - S Akuzawa
- Neuroscience Research Unit, DDR, Astellas Pharma Inc., Tsukuba-Shi, Ibaraki 305-8585, Japan
| | - M Matsumoto
- Neuroscience Research Unit, DDR, Astellas Pharma Inc., Tsukuba-Shi, Ibaraki 305-8585, Japan
| | - S J Siegel
- Translational Neuroscience Program Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Kong M, Pritchard M, Dean L, Talley M, Torbert R, Maha J. A Community-Based Sensory Training Program Leads to Improved Experience at a Local Zoo for Children with Sensory Challenges. Front Pediatr 2017; 5:193. [PMID: 28966920 PMCID: PMC5605637 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2017.00193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Sensory processing difficulties are common among many special needs children, especially those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The sensory sensitivities often result in interference of daily functioning and can lead to social isolation for both the individual and family unit. A quality improvement (QI) project was undertaken within a local zoo to systematically implement a sensory training program targeted at helping special needs individuals with sensory challenges, including those with ASD, Down's syndrome, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and speech delay. We piloted the program over a 2-year period. The program consisted of staff training, provision of sensory bags and specific social stories, as well as creation of quiet zones. Two hundred family units were surveyed before and after implementation of the sensory training program. In this pilot QI study, families reported increased visitation to the zoo, improved interactions with staff members, and the overall quality of their experience. In conclusion, we are able to demonstrate that a sensory training program within the community zoo is feasible, impactful, and has the potential to decrease social isolation for special needs individuals and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Kong
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | | | - Lara Dean
- Vestavia Hills, KultureCity, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Michele Talley
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | | | - Julian Maha
- Vestavia Hills, KultureCity, Birmingham, AL, United States
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Zhang D, Kaufmann WE, Sigafoos J, Bartl-Pokorny KD, Krieber M, Marschik PB, Einspieler C. Parents' initial concerns about the development of their children later diagnosed with fragile X syndrome. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL & DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY 2017; 42:114-122. [PMID: 29875616 PMCID: PMC5985965 DOI: 10.3109/13668250.2016.1228858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Retrospective parental reports have often been used to identify the early characteristics of children later diagnosed with a developmental disorder. METHOD We applied this methodology to document 13 parents' initial concerns about the development of their 17 children later diagnosed with fragile X syndrome (FXS). Parents were additionally asked about when they noticed the emergence of behavioural signs related to FXS. RESULTS More than half of the parents reported initial concerns prior to the child's first birthday and in most cases it was deviant motor behaviours that caused the first concerns. Behavioural signs related to the FXS phenotype were also reported to be perceptible in the first year of the child's life. CONCLUSIONS Due to limitations of retrospective parental questionnaires, we suggest that other methodologies, such as home video analysis, are needed to complement our understanding of the pathways of developmental disorders with late clinical onsets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dajie Zhang
- Institute of Physiology, Research Unit iDN – interdisciplinary Developmental Neuroscience, Medical University of Graz, Austria
| | - Walter E. Kaufmann
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital & Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Jeff Sigafoos
- School of Education, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Katrin D. Bartl-Pokorny
- Institute of Physiology, Research Unit iDN – interdisciplinary Developmental Neuroscience, Medical University of Graz, Austria
| | - Magdalena Krieber
- Institute of Physiology, Research Unit iDN – interdisciplinary Developmental Neuroscience, Medical University of Graz, Austria
| | - Peter B. Marschik
- Institute of Physiology, Research Unit iDN – interdisciplinary Developmental Neuroscience, Medical University of Graz, Austria
- Center of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (KIND), Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Brain, Ears & Eyes – Pattern Recognition Initiative, BioTechMed-Graz, Austria
- Correspondence to: Assoc.Prof.DDr. Peter B Marschik, Medical University of Graz, Harrachgasse 21/5, 8010 Graz, Austria, Phone: +43-316-380-4276,
| | - Christa Einspieler
- Institute of Physiology, Research Unit iDN – interdisciplinary Developmental Neuroscience, Medical University of Graz, Austria
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Wheeler AC, Sideris J, Hagerman R, Berry-Kravis E, Tassone F, Bailey DB. Developmental profiles of infants with an FMR1 premutation. J Neurodev Disord 2016; 8:40. [PMID: 27822316 PMCID: PMC5095966 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-016-9171-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 10/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emerging evidence suggests that a subset of FMR1 premutation carriers is at an increased risk for cognitive, emotional, and medical conditions. However, because the premutation is rarely diagnosed at birth, the early developmental trajectories of children with a premutation are not known. METHODS This exploratory study examined the cognitive, communication, and social-behavioral profiles of 26 infants with a premutation who were identified through participation in a newborn screening for fragile X syndrome pilot study. In this study, families whose newborn screened positive for an FMR1 premutation were invited to participate in a longitudinal study of early development. Twenty-six infants with the premutation and 21 matched, screen-negative comparison babies were assessed using validated standardized measures at 6-month intervals starting as young as 3 months of age. The babies were assessed up to seven times over a 4-year period. RESULTS The premutation group was not statistically different from the comparison group on measures of cognitive development, adaptive behavior, temperament, or overall communication. However, the babies with the premutation had a significantly different developmental trajectory on measures of nonverbal communication and hyperresponsivity to sensory experiences. They also were significantly more hyporesponsive at all ages than the comparison group. Cytosine-guanine-guanine repeat length was linearly associated with overall cognitive development. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that infants with a premutation may present with subtle developmental differences as young as 12 months of age that may be early markers of later anxiety, social deficits, or other challenges thought to be experienced by a subset of carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne C Wheeler
- RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Road, P.O. Box 12194, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709 USA
| | - John Sideris
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC USA
| | - Randi Hagerman
- Davis MIND (Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders) Institute, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA USA ; Department of Pediatrics, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA USA
| | | | - Flora Tassone
- Davis MIND (Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders) Institute, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA USA
| | - Donald B Bailey
- RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Road, P.O. Box 12194, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709 USA
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50
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Somatosensory map expansion and altered processing of tactile inputs in a mouse model of fragile X syndrome. Neurobiol Dis 2016; 96:201-215. [PMID: 27616423 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2016.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2016] [Revised: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 09/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a common inherited form of intellectual disability caused by the absence or reduction of the fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) encoded by the FMR1 gene. In humans, one symptom of FXS is hypersensitivity to sensory stimuli, including touch. We used a mouse model of FXS (Fmr1 KO) to study sensory processing of tactile information conveyed via the whisker system. In vivo electrophysiological recordings in somatosensory barrel cortex showed layer-specific broadening of the receptive fields at the level of layer 2/3 but not layer 4, in response to whisker stimulation. Furthermore, the encoding of tactile stimuli at different frequencies was severely affected in layer 2/3. The behavioral effect of this broadening of the receptive fields was tested in the gap-crossing task, a whisker-dependent behavioral paradigm. In this task the Fmr1 KO mice showed differences in the number of whisker contacts with platforms, decrease in the whisker sampling duration and reduction in the whisker touch-time while performing the task. We propose that the increased excitability in the somatosensory barrel cortex upon whisker stimulation may contribute to changes in the whisking strategy as well as to other observed behavioral phenotypes related to tactile processing in Fmr1 KO mice.
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