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Fu CH, You JC, Mohila C, Rissman RA, Yoshor D, Viaene AN, Chin J. Hippocampal ΔFosB expression is associated with cognitive impairment in a subgroup of patients with childhood epilepsies. Front Neurol 2024; 14:1331194. [PMID: 38274865 PMCID: PMC10808715 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1331194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, and is often comorbid with other neurological and neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Patients with recurrent seizures often present with cognitive impairment. However, it is unclear how seizures, even when infrequent, produce long-lasting deficits in cognition. One mechanism may be seizure-induced expression of ΔFosB, a long-lived transcription factor that persistently regulates expression of plasticity-related genes and drives cognitive dysfunction. We previously found that, compared with cognitively-intact subjects, the activity-dependent expression of ΔFosB in the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) was increased in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and in individuals with AD. In MCI patients, higher ΔFosB expression corresponded to lower Mini-Mental State Examination scores. Surgically resected DG tissue from patients with temporal lobe epilepsy also showed robust ΔFosB expression; however, it is unclear whether ΔFosB expression also corresponds to cognitive dysfunction in non-AD-related epilepsy. To test whether DG ΔFosB expression is indicative of cognitive impairment in epilepsies with different etiologies, we assessed ΔFosB expression in surgically-resected hippocampal tissue from 33 patients with childhood epilepsies who had undergone Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) testing prior to surgery. We found that ΔFosB expression is inversely correlated with Full-Scale Intelligence Quotient (FSIQ) in patients with mild to severe intellectual disability (FSIQ < 85). Our data indicate that ΔFosB expression corresponds to cognitive impairment in epilepsies with different etiologies, supporting the hypothesis that ΔFosB may epigenetically regulate gene expression and impair cognition across a wide range of epilepsy syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Hsuan Fu
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Jason C. You
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Carrie Mohila
- Department of Pathology, Texas Children's Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Robert A. Rissman
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Veteran's Affairs (VA) San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Daniel Yoshor
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Angela N. Viaene
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Jeannie Chin
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
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Fleming V, Hom CL, Clare ICH, Hurd-Thomas SL, Krinsky-McHale S, Handen B, Hartley SL. Cognitive outcome measures for tracking Alzheimer's disease in Down syndrome. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2022; 62:227-263. [PMID: 37396708 PMCID: PMC10312212 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irrdd.2022.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Down syndrome (DS) is now viewed as a genetic type of Alzheimer's disease (AD), given the near-universal presence of AD pathology in middle adulthood and the elevated risk for developing clinical AD in DS. As the field of DS prepares for AD clinical intervention trials, there is a strong need to identify cognitive measures that are specific and sensitive to the transition from being cognitively stable to the prodromal (e.g., Mild Cognitive Impairment-Down syndrome) and clinical AD (e.g., Dementia) stages of the disease in DS. It is also important to determine cognitive measures that map onto biomarkers of early AD pathology during the transition from the preclinical to the prodromal stage of the disease, as this transition period is likely to be targeted and tracked in AD clinical trials. The present chapter discusses the current state of research on cognitive measures that could be used to screen/select study participants and as potential outcome measures in future AD clinical trials with adults with DS. In this chapter, we also identify key challenges that need to be overcome and questions that need to be addressed by the DS field as it prepares for AD clinical trials in the coming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Fleming
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- School of Human Ecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Christy L Hom
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, Orange, CA, United States
| | - Isabel C H Clare
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | | | - Sharon Krinsky-McHale
- New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, NY, United States
| | - Benjamin Handen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Sigan L Hartley
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- School of Human Ecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
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3
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Saggu S, Chen Y, Chen L, Pizarro D, Pati S, Law WJ, McMahon L, Jiao K, Wang Q. A peptide blocking the ADORA1-neurabin interaction is anticonvulsant and inhibits epilepsy in an Alzheimer's model. JCI Insight 2022; 7:155002. [PMID: 35674133 PMCID: PMC9220929 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.155002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Epileptic seizures are common sequelae of stroke, acute brain injury, and chronic neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), and cannot be effectively controlled in approximately 40% of patients, necessitating the development of novel therapeutic agents. Activation of the A1 receptor (A1R) by endogenous adenosine is an intrinsic mechanism to self-terminate seizures and protect neurons from excitotoxicity. However, targeting A1R for neurological disorders has been hindered by side effects associated with its broad expression outside the nervous system. Here we aim to target the neural-specific A1R/neurabin/regulator of G protein signaling 4 (A1R/neurabin/RGS4) complex that dictates A1R signaling strength and response outcome in the brain. We developed a peptide that blocks the A1R-neurabin interaction to enhance A1R activity. Intracerebroventricular or i.n. administration of this peptide shows marked protection against kainate-induced seizures and neuronal death. Furthermore, in an AD mouse model with spontaneous seizures, nasal delivery of this blocking peptide reduces epileptic spike frequency. Significantly, the anticonvulsant and neuroprotective effects of this peptide are achieved through enhanced A1R function in response to endogenous adenosine in the brain, thus, avoiding side effects associated with A1R activation in peripheral tissues and organs. Our study informs potentially new anti-seizure therapy applicable to epilepsy and other neurological illness with comorbid seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shalini Saggu
- Departments of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology
| | - Yunjia Chen
- Departments of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology
| | - Liping Chen
- Departments of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology
| | | | | | - Wen Jing Law
- Departments of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology
| | - Lori McMahon
- Departments of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology
| | - Kai Jiao
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Qin Wang
- Departments of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology
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4
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Farrell C, Mumford P, Wiseman FK. Rodent Modeling of Alzheimer's Disease in Down Syndrome: In vivo and ex vivo Approaches. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:909669. [PMID: 35747206 PMCID: PMC9209729 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.909669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
There are an estimated 6 million people with Down syndrome (DS) worldwide. In developed countries, the vast majority of these individuals will develop Alzheimer's disease neuropathology characterized by the accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques and tau neurofibrillary tangles within the brain, which leads to the early onset of dementia (AD-DS) and reduced life-expectancy. The mean age of onset of clinical dementia is ~55 years and by the age of 80, approaching 100% of individuals with DS will have a dementia diagnosis. DS is caused by trisomy of chromosome 21 (Hsa21) thus an additional copy of a gene(s) on the chromosome must cause the development of AD neuropathology and dementia. Indeed, triplication of the gene APP which encodes the amyloid precursor protein is sufficient and necessary for early onset AD (EOAD), both in people who have and do not have DS. However, triplication of other genes on Hsa21 leads to profound differences in neurodevelopment resulting in intellectual disability, elevated incidence of epilepsy and perturbations to the immune system. This different biology may impact on how AD neuropathology and dementia develops in people who have DS. Indeed, genes on Hsa21 other than APP when in three-copies can modulate AD-pathogenesis in mouse preclinical models. Understanding this biology better is critical to inform drug selection for AD prevention and therapy trials for people who have DS. Here we will review rodent preclinical models of AD-DS and how these can be used for both in vivo and ex vivo (cultured cells and organotypic slice cultures) studies to understand the mechanisms that contribute to the early development of AD in people who have DS and test the utility of treatments to prevent or delay the development of disease.
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Wallace ER, Harp JP, Van Pelt KL, Koehl LM, Caban-Holt AM, Anderson-Mooney AJ, Jicha GA, Lightner DD, Robertson WC, Head E, Schmitt FA. Identifying dementia in Down syndrome with the Severe Impairment Battery, Brief Praxis Test and Dementia Scale for People with Learning Disabilities. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2021; 65:1085-1096. [PMID: 34786786 PMCID: PMC8842513 DOI: 10.1111/jir.12901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) are at high risk for dementia, specifically Alzheimer's disease. However, many measures regularly used for the detection of dementia in the general population are not suitable for individuals with DS due in part to floor effects. Some measures, including the Severe Impairment Battery (SIB), Brief Praxis Test (BPT) and Dementia Scale for People with Learning Disabilities (DLD), have been used in clinical trials and other research with this population. Validity research is limited, particularly regarding the use of such tools for detection of prodromal dementia in the DS population. The current project presents baseline cross-sectional SIB, BPT and DLD performance in order to characterise their predictive utility in discriminating normal cognition, possible dementia and probable dementia in adult DS. METHOD Baseline SIB, BPT and DLD performances from 100 individuals (no dementia = 68, possible dementia = 16 & probable dementia = 16) were examined from a longitudinal cohort of aging individuals with DS. Receiver operating characteristic curves investigated the accuracy of these measures in relation to consensus dementia diagnoses, diagnoses which demonstrated high percent agreement with the examining neurologist's independent diagnostic impression. RESULTS The SIB and BPT exhibited fair discrimination ability for differentiating no/possible versus probable dementia [area under the curve (AUC) = 0.61 and 0.66, respectively]. The DLD exhibited good discrimination ability for differentiating no versus possible/probable dementia (AUC = 0.75) and further demonstrated better performance of the DLD Cognitive subscale compared with the DLD Social subscale (AUC = 0.77 and 0.67, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that the SIB, BPT and DLD are able to reasonably discriminate consensus dementia diagnoses in individuals with DS, supporting their continued use in the clinical assessment of dementia in DS. The general performance of these measures suggests that further work in the area of test development is needed to improve on the AUCs for dementia status discrimination in this unique population. At present, however, the current findings suggest that the DLD may be the best option for reliable identification of prodromal dementia in this population, reinforcing the importance of including informant behaviour ratings in assessment of cognition for adults with DS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Gregory A. Jicha
- Department of Neurology, University of Kentucky
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky
| | | | | | - Elizabeth Head
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of California—Irvine
| | - Frederick A. Schmitt
- Department of Neurology, University of Kentucky
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky
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Tait L, Lopes MA, Stothart G, Baker J, Kazanina N, Zhang J, Goodfellow M. A large-scale brain network mechanism for increased seizure propensity in Alzheimer's disease. PLoS Comput Biol 2021; 17:e1009252. [PMID: 34379638 PMCID: PMC8382184 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1009252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
People with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are 6-10 times more likely to develop seizures than the healthy aging population. Leading hypotheses largely consider hyperexcitability of local cortical tissue as primarily responsible for increased seizure prevalence in AD. However, in the general population of people with epilepsy, large-scale brain network organization additionally plays a role in determining seizure likelihood and phenotype. Here, we propose that alterations to large-scale brain network organization seen in AD may contribute to increased seizure likelihood. To test this hypothesis, we combine computational modelling with electrophysiological data using an approach that has proved informative in clinical epilepsy cohorts without AD. EEG was recorded from 21 people with probable AD and 26 healthy controls. At the time of EEG acquisition, all participants were free from seizures. Whole brain functional connectivity derived from source-reconstructed EEG recordings was used to build subject-specific brain network models of seizure transitions. As cortical tissue excitability was increased in the simulations, AD simulations were more likely to transition into seizures than simulations from healthy controls, suggesting an increased group-level probability of developing seizures at a future time for AD participants. We subsequently used the model to assess seizure propensity of different regions across the cortex. We found the most important regions for seizure generation were those typically burdened by amyloid-beta at the early stages of AD, as previously reported by in-vivo and post-mortem staging of amyloid plaques. Analysis of these spatial distributions also give potential insight into mechanisms of increased susceptibility to generalized (as opposed to focal) seizures in AD vs controls. This research suggests avenues for future studies testing patients with seizures, e.g. co-morbid AD/epilepsy patients, and comparisons with PET and MRI scans to relate regional seizure propensity with AD pathologies. People with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are more likely to develop seizures than cognitively healthy people. In this study, we aimed to understand whether whole-brain network structure is related to this increased seizure likelihood. We used electroencephalography (EEG) to estimate brain networks from people with AD and healthy controls. We subsequently inserted these networks into a model brain and simulated disease progression by increasing the excitability of brain tissue. We found the simulated AD brains were more likely to develop seizures than the simulated control brains. No participants had seizures when we collected data, so our results suggest an increased probability of developing seizures at a future time for AD participants. Therefore functional brain network structure may play a role in increased seizure likelihood in AD. We also used the model to examine which brain regions were most important for generating seizures, and found that the seizure-generating regions corresponded to those typically affected in early AD. Our results also provide a potential explanation for why people with AD are more likely to have generalized seizures (i.e. seizures involving the whole brain, as opposed to ‘focal’ seizures which only involve certain areas) than the general population with epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Tait
- Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Marinho A. Lopes
- Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - George Stothart
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - John Baker
- Dementia Research Centre, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, UCL, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nina Kazanina
- School of Psychological Science, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Jiaxiang Zhang
- Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Marc Goodfellow
- Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
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7
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Romoli M, Sen A, Parnetti L, Calabresi P, Costa C. Amyloid-β: a potential link between epilepsy and cognitive decline. Nat Rev Neurol 2021; 17:469-485. [PMID: 34117482 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-021-00505-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
People with epilepsy - in particular, late-onset epilepsy of unknown aetiology - have an elevated risk of dementia, and seizures have been detected in the early stages of Alzheimer disease (AD), supporting the concept of an epileptic AD prodrome. However, the relationship between epilepsy and cognitive decline remains controversial, with substantial uncertainties about whether epilepsy drives cognitive decline or vice versa, and whether shared pathways underlie both conditions. Here, we review evidence that amyloid-β (Aβ) forms part of a shared pathway between epilepsy and cognitive decline, particularly in the context of AD. People with epilepsy show an increased burden of Aβ pathology in the brain, and Aβ-mediated epileptogenic alterations have been demonstrated in experimental studies, with evidence suggesting that Aβ pathology might already be pro-epileptogenic at the soluble stage, long before plaque deposition. We discuss the hypothesis that Aβ mediates - or is at least a major determinant of - a continuum spanning epilepsy and cognitive decline. Serial cognitive testing and assessment of Aβ levels might be worthwhile to stratify the risk of developing dementia in people with late-onset epilepsy. If seizures are a clinical harbinger of dementia, people with late-onset epilepsy could be an ideal group in which to implement preventive or therapeutic strategies to slow cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Romoli
- Neurology Clinic, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia - S. Maria della Misericordia Hospital, Perugia, Italy.,Oxford Epilepsy Research Group, NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK.,Neurology and Stroke Unit, "Maurizio Bufalini" Hospital, Cesena, Italy.,IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Neurologia e Rete Stroke Metropolitana, Ospedale Maggiore, Bologna, Italy
| | - Arjune Sen
- Oxford Epilepsy Research Group, NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Lucilla Parnetti
- Neurology Clinic, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia - S. Maria della Misericordia Hospital, Perugia, Italy
| | - Paolo Calabresi
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, UOC Neurologia, Dipartimento di Scienze dell'Invecchiamento, Neurologiche, Ortopediche e della Testa-Collo, Rome, Italy
| | - Cinzia Costa
- Neurology Clinic, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia - S. Maria della Misericordia Hospital, Perugia, Italy.
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Joseph S, Patterson R, Wang W, Blumberger DM, Rajji T, Kumar S. Quantitative Assessment of Cortical Excitability in Alzheimer's Dementia and Its Association with Clinical Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 88:867-891. [PMID: 34219724 DOI: 10.3233/jad-210311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by cognitive and neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) due to underlying neurodegenerative pathology. Some studies using electroencephalography (EEG) have shown increased epileptiform and epileptic activity in AD. OBJECTIVE This review and meta-analyses aims to synthesize the existing evidence for quantitative abnormalities of cortical excitability in AD and their relationship with clinical symptoms. METHODS We systematically searched and reviewed publications that quantitatively assessed cortical excitability, using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) resting motor threshold (rMT), active motor threshold (aMT), motor evoked potential (MEP) or directly from the cortex using TMS-EEG via TMS-evoked potential (TEP). We meta-analyzed studies that assessed rMT and aMT using random effects model. RESULTS We identified 895 publications out of which 37 were included in the qualitative review and 30 studies using rMT or aMT were included in the meta-analyses. The AD group had reduced rMT (Hedges' g = -0.99, 95%CI [-1.29, -0.68], p < 0.00001) and aMT (Hedges' g = -0.87, 95%CI [-1.50, -0.24], p < 0.00001) as compared with control groups, indicative of higher cortical excitability. Qualitative review found some evidence of increased MEP amplitude, whereas findings related to TEP were inconsistent. There was some evidence supporting an inverse association between cortical excitability and global cognition. No publications reported on the relationship between cortical excitability and NPS. CONCLUSION There is strong evidence of increased motor cortex excitability in AD and some evidence of an inverse association between excitability and cognition. Future studies should assess cortical excitability from non-motor areas using TMS-EEG and examine its relationship with cognition and NPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaylyn Joseph
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada.,University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Rachel Patterson
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada.,University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Wei Wang
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Daniel M Blumberger
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada.,University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Tarek Rajji
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada.,University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Toronto Dementia Research Alliance, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sanjeev Kumar
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada.,University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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9
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Zhen ZH, Guo MR, Li HM, Guo OY, Zhen JL, Fu J, Tan GJ. Normal and Abnormal Sharp Wave Ripples in the Hippocampal-Entorhinal Cortex System: Implications for Memory Consolidation, Alzheimer's Disease, and Temporal Lobe Epilepsy. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:683483. [PMID: 34262446 PMCID: PMC8273653 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.683483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The appearance of hippocampal sharp wave ripples (SWRs) is an electrophysiological biomarker for episodic memory encoding and behavioral planning. Disturbed SWRs are considered a sign of neural network dysfunction that may provide insights into the structural connectivity changes associated with cognitive impairment in early-stage Alzheimer's disease (AD) and temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). SWRs originating from hippocampus have been extensively studied during spatial navigation in rodents, and more recent studies have investigated SWRs in the hippocampal-entorhinal cortex (HPC-EC) system during a variety of other memory-guided behaviors. Understanding how SWR disruption impairs memory function, especially episodic memory, could aid in the development of more efficacious therapeutics for AD and TLE. In this review, we first provide an overview of the reciprocal association between AD and TLE, and then focus on the functions of HPC-EC system SWRs in episodic memory consolidation. It is posited that these waveforms reflect rapid network interactions among excitatory projection neurons and local interneurons and that these waves may contribute to synaptic plasticity underlying memory consolidation. Further, SWRs appear altered or ectopic in AD and TLE. These waveforms may thus provide clues to understanding disease pathogenesis and may even serve as biomarkers for early-stage disease progression and treatment response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Hang Zhen
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Mo-Ran Guo
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China.,Neurological Laboratory of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - He-Ming Li
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Ou-Yang Guo
- Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jun-Li Zhen
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China.,Neurological Laboratory of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Jian Fu
- Department of Emergency Surgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Guo-Jun Tan
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China.,Neurological Laboratory of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, China
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10
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Altuna M, Giménez S, Fortea J. Epilepsy in Down Syndrome: A Highly Prevalent Comorbidity. J Clin Med 2021; 10:2776. [PMID: 34202784 PMCID: PMC8268854 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10132776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) have an increased risk for epilepsy during the whole lifespan, but especially after age 40 years. The increase in the number of individuals with DS living into late middle age due to improved health care is resulting in an increase in epilepsy prevalence in this population. However, these epileptic seizures are probably underdiagnosed and inadequately treated. This late onset epilepsy is linked to the development of symptomatic Alzheimer's disease (AD), which is the main comorbidity in adults with DS with a cumulative incidence of more than 90% of adults by the seventh decade. More than 50% of patients with DS and AD dementia will most likely develop epilepsy, which in this context has a specific clinical presentation in the form of generalized myoclonic epilepsy. This epilepsy, named late onset myoclonic epilepsy (LOMEDS) affects the quality of life, might be associated with worse cognitive and functional outcomes in patients with AD dementia and has an impact on mortality. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge about the clinical and electrophysiological characteristics, diagnosis and treatment of epileptic seizures in the DS population, with a special emphasis on LOMEDS. Raised awareness and a better understanding of epilepsy in DS from families, caregivers and clinicians could enable earlier diagnoses and better treatments for individuals with DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miren Altuna
- Sant Pau Memory Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08041 Barcelona, Spain;
- Center of Biomedical Investigation Network for Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), 28031 Madrid, Spain
| | - Sandra Giménez
- Sant Pau Memory Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08041 Barcelona, Spain;
- Multidisciplinary Sleep Unit, Respiratory Department, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, 08041 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan Fortea
- Sant Pau Memory Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08041 Barcelona, Spain;
- Center of Biomedical Investigation Network for Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), 28031 Madrid, Spain
- Barcelona Down Medical Center, Fundació Catalana de Síndrome de Down, 08029 Barcelona, Spain
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11
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Cross-Sectional Exploration of Plasma Biomarkers of Alzheimer's Disease in Down Syndrome: Early Data from the Longitudinal Investigation for Enhancing Down Syndrome Research (LIFE-DSR) Study. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10091907. [PMID: 33924960 PMCID: PMC8124643 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10091907] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
With improved healthcare, the Down syndrome (DS) population is both growing and aging rapidly. However, with longevity comes a very high risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The LIFE-DSR study (NCT04149197) is a longitudinal natural history study recruiting 270 adults with DS over the age of 25. The study is designed to characterize trajectories of change in DS-associated AD (DS-AD). The current study reports its cross-sectional analysis of the first 90 subjects enrolled. Plasma biomarkers phosphorylated tau protein (p-tau), neurofilament light chain (NfL), amyloid β peptides (Aβ1-40, Aβ1-42), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) were undertaken with previously published methods. The clinical data from the baseline visit include demographics as well as the cognitive measures under the Severe Impairment Battery (SIB) and Down Syndrome Mental Status Examination (DS-MSE). Biomarker distributions are described with strong statistical associations observed with participant age. The biomarker data contributes to understanding DS-AD across the spectrum of disease. Collectively, the biomarker data show evidence of DS-AD progression beginning at approximately 40 years of age. Exploring these data across the full LIFE-DSR longitudinal study population will be an important resource in understanding the onset, progression, and clinical profiles of DS-AD pathophysiology.
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Wang X, Loi SM, Foster E, Chen Z, Velakoulis D, Kwan P. Predictors of New-Onset Epilepsy in People With Younger-Onset Neurocognitive Disorders. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:637260. [PMID: 33815091 PMCID: PMC8010684 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.637260] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: People with neurocognitive disorders (NCDs) have an increased risk of epilepsy. However, most studies investigating the risk of seizures in people with NCDs are limited to those with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VD), and those who developed dementia after age 65 years. A knowledge gap exists regarding factors associated with development of epilepsy in people with younger-onset NCD, and those with non-AD and non-VD dementia subtypes. In this study, we aimed to identify the factors associated with the development of epilepsy in people with younger-onset NCDs of varied etiologies, the majority of whom had symptom onset prior to age 65 years. Participants and Methods: This was a retrospective study reviewing the medical records of consecutive people admitted with cognitive impairment to a tertiary neuropsychiatry unit between 1 January 2004 and 30 April 2019. People diagnosed with primary NCDs were included in the analysis. The prevalence and characteristics of epilepsy were described. The factors associated with developing epilepsy were identified in a binary logistic regression model. Results: A total of 427 people were included. One hundred fourteen had Alzheimer's disease, 104 frontotemporal dementia, 51 vascular dementia, 69 movement disorder-associated dementia, and 89 unspecified NCD. The median age on admission was 59 years (range 33-86) and 75.2% (n = 321/427) had young-onset NCD with onset before 65 years of age. 40/427 (9.4%) people had epilepsy, and epilepsy onset clustered between 2 years before and 6 years after the onset of cognitive decline in 80% (n = 32/40). The most frequent seizure type was focal to bilateral tonic-clonic seizure (35%, n = 14/40). Most of the people (94.7%, n = 36/38) achieved seizure freedom with one or two antiseizure medications. People with unspecified NCD (compared to frontotemporal dementia and movement disorder-associated dementia, age of onset of NCDs ≤50 years, and current smoking status were independently associated with higher risk of developing epilepsy. Conclusion: Epilepsy is common in people with younger-onset NCDs, and a high index of suspicion is warranted particularly for those with unspecified subtype and smoking status. Smoking reduction or cessation should be further investigated as a potentially modifiable factor for risk reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinshi Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Department of Neuroscience, The Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Samantha M Loi
- Neuropsychiatry, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and Melbourne Neuropsychiatry Center, The University of Melbourne and The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Emma Foster
- Department of Neuroscience, The Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Zhibin Chen
- Department of Neuroscience, The Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Dennis Velakoulis
- Neuropsychiatry, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and Melbourne Neuropsychiatry Center, The University of Melbourne and The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Patrick Kwan
- Department of Neuroscience, The Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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13
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Adan G, Mitchell JW, Ziso B, Larner AJ. Diagnosis and Management of Seizures in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Curr Treat Options Neurol 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s11940-020-00656-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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14
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Screening of Cognitive Changes in Adults with Intellectual Disabilities: A Systematic Review. Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10110848. [PMID: 33198271 PMCID: PMC7698112 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10110848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims: Screening and assessment of cognitive changes in adults with Intellectual Disabilities (ID), mainly Down Syndrome (DS), is crucial to offer appropriate services to their needs. We present a systematic review of the existing instruments assessing dementia, aiming to support researchers and clinicians’ best practice. Methods: Searches were carried out in the databases Web of Science; PubMed; PsycINFO in March 2019 and updated in October 2020. Studies were selected and examined if they: (1) focused on assessing age-related cognitive changes in persons with ID; (2) included adults and/or older adults; (3) included scales and batteries for cognitive assessment. Results: Forty-eight cross-sectional studies and twenty-seven longitudinal studies were selected representing a total sample of 6451 participants (4650 DS and 1801 with other ID). In those studies, we found 39 scales, questionnaires, and inventories, and 13 batteries for assessing cognitive and behavioural changes in adults with DS and other ID. Conclusion: The most used instrument completed by an informant or carer was the Dementia Questionnaire for Learning Disabilities (DLD), and its previous versions. We discuss the strengths and limitations of the instruments and outline recommendations for future use.
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15
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Vöglein J, Ricard I, Noachtar S, Kukull WA, Dieterich M, Levin J, Danek A. Seizures in Alzheimer's disease are highly recurrent and associated with a poor disease course. J Neurol 2020; 267:2941-2948. [PMID: 32488295 PMCID: PMC7501095 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-020-09937-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Seizures are an important comorbidity in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Conflicting results regarding clinical parameters associated with seizures in AD were previously reported. Data on seizure recurrence risk, a crucial parameter for treatment decisions, are lacking. METHODS National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center data were analyzed. Seizure prevalence in AD and an association with disease duration were investigated. Associations of seizures with age of AD onset and with cognitive and functional performance, and seizure recurrence risk were studied. RESULTS 20,745 individuals were investigated. In AD dementia, seizure recurrence risk was 70.4% within 7.5 months. Seizure history was associated with an earlier age of onset of cognitive symptoms (seizures vs. no seizures: 64.7 vs. 70.4 years; p < 0.0001) and worse cognitive and functional performance (mean MMSE score: 16.6 vs. 19.6; mean CDR-sum of boxes score: 9.3 vs. 6.8; p < 0.0001; adjusted for disease duration and age). Seizure prevalence increased with duration of AD dementia (standardized OR = 1.55, 95% CI = 1.39-1.73, p < 0.0001), rising from 1.51% at 4.8 years to 5.43% at 11 years disease duration. Seizures were more frequent in AD dementia compared to normal controls (active seizures: 1.51% vs. 0.35%, p < 0.0001, OR = 4.34, 95% CI = 3.01-6.27; seizure history: 3.14% vs. 1.57%, p < 0.0001, OR = 2.03, 95% CI = 1.67-2.46). CONCLUSION Seizures in AD dementia feature an exceptionally high recurrence risk and are associated with a poor course of cognitive symptoms. AD patients are at an increased risk for seizures, particularly in later disease stages. Our findings emphasize a need for seizure history assessment in AD, inform individual therapeutic decisions and underline the necessity of systematic treatment studies of AD-associated epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Vöglein
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Feodor-Lynen-Straße 17, 81377, Munich, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Ingrid Ricard
- Institute for Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Soheyl Noachtar
- Department of Neurology, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Walter A Kukull
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington School of Public Health, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Marianne Dieterich
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Feodor-Lynen-Straße 17, 81377, Munich, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Feodor-Lynen-Straße 17, 81377, Munich, Germany
- German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Johannes Levin
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Feodor-Lynen-Straße 17, 81377, Munich, Germany.
- Department of Neurology, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377, Munich, Germany.
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Feodor-Lynen-Straße 17, 81377, Munich, Germany.
| | - Adrian Danek
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Feodor-Lynen-Straße 17, 81377, Munich, Germany.
- Department of Neurology, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377, Munich, Germany.
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16
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Santoro JD, Pagarkar D, Chu DT, Rosso M, Paulsen KC, Levitt P, Rafii MS. Neurologic complications of Down syndrome: a systematic review. J Neurol 2020; 268:4495-4509. [PMID: 32920658 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-020-10179-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Down syndrome (DS) is one of the most well-recognized genetic disorders. Persons with DS are known to have a variety of co-morbid medical problems, affecting nearly all organ systems. Improved healthcare interventions and research have allowed for increased life span of persons with DS, although disorders of the neurologic system remain underexplored. The purpose of this systematic review is to provide clinically pertinent information on the neurological phenotypes of frequently occurring or clinically relevant conditions. A retrospective review of MEDLINE, Scopus, and Pubmed were used to identify sources among seventeen, clinically relevant, search categories. MeSH terms all contained the phrase "Down Syndrome" in conjunction with the topic of interest. 'Frequently-occurring' was defined as prevalent in more than 10% of persons with DS across their lifespan, whereas 'clinically-relevant' was defined as a disease condition where early diagnosis or intervention can augment the disease course. In total, 4896 sources were identified with 159 sources meeting criteria for inclusion. Seventeen clinical conditions were grouped under the following subjects: hypotonia, intellectual and learning disability, cervical instability, autism spectrum disorder, epilepsy, cerebrovascular disease, Alzheimer's disease and neuropsychiatric disease. The results of this review provide a blueprint for the clinical neurologist taking care of persons with DS across the age spectrum and indicate that there are many underrecognized and misdiagnosed co-occurring conditions in DS, highlighting the need for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan D Santoro
- Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA. .,Department of Neurology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Dania Pagarkar
- Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Duong T Chu
- Faculty of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Mattia Rosso
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Kelli C Paulsen
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Department of Neurology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Pat Levitt
- Department of Pediatrics and Program in Developmental Neuroscience and Developmental Neurogenetics, The Saban Research Institute, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Michael S Rafii
- Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Department of Neurology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Alzheimer's Therapeutic Research Institute (ATRI), Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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17
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Rafii MS. Alzheimer's Disease in Down Syndrome: Progress in the Design and Conduct of Drug Prevention Trials. CNS Drugs 2020; 34:785-794. [PMID: 32506291 PMCID: PMC7395870 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-020-00740-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) are at high risk for developing Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology and this has provided significant insights into our understanding of the genetic basis of AD. The present review summarizes recent clinical, neuropathologic, imaging, and fluid biomarker studies of AD in DS (DSAD), highlighting the striking similarities, as well as some notable differences, between DSAD and the more common late-onset form of AD (LOAD) in the general population, as well as the much rarer, autosomal-dominant form of AD (ADAD). There has been significant progress in our understanding of the natural history of AD biomarkers in DS and their relationship to clinically meaningful changes. Additional work is needed to clearly define the continuum of AD that has been described in the general population, such as the preclinical, prodromal, and dementia stages of AD. Multiple therapeutic approaches, including those targeting not only β-amyloid but also tau and the amyloid precursor protein itself, require consideration. Recent developments in the field are presented within the context of such efforts to conduct clinical trials to treat and potentially prevent AD in DS.
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18
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Snyder HM, Bain LJ, Brickman AM, Carrillo MC, Esbensen AJ, Espinosa JM, Fernandez F, Fortea J, Hartley SL, Head E, Hendrix J, Kishnani PS, Lai F, Lao P, Lemere C, Mobley W, Mufson EJ, Potter H, Zaman SH, Granholm AC, Rosas HD, Strydom A, Whitten MS, Rafii MS. Further understanding the connection between Alzheimer's disease and Down syndrome. Alzheimers Dement 2020; 16:1065-1077. [PMID: 32544310 PMCID: PMC8865308 DOI: 10.1002/alz.12112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Improved medical care of individuals with Down syndrome (DS) has led to an increase in life expectancy to over the age of 60 years. In conjunction, there has been an increase in age-related co-occurring conditions including Alzheimer's disease (AD). Understanding the factors that underlie symptom and age of clinical presentation of dementia in people with DS may provide insights into the mechanisms of sporadic and DS-associated AD (DS-AD). In March 2019, the Alzheimer's Association, Global Down Syndrome Foundation and the LuMind IDSC Foundation partnered to convene a workshop to explore the state of the research on the intersection of AD and DS research; to identify research gaps and unmet needs; and to consider how best to advance the field. This article provides a summary of discussions, including noting areas of emerging science and discovery, considerations for future studies, and identifying open gaps in our understanding for future focus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather M. Snyder
- Alzheimer’s Association, Medical & Scientific Relations, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Lisa J. Bain
- Independent Science Writer, Elverson, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Adam M. Brickman
- Department of Neurology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Maria C. Carrillo
- Alzheimer’s Association, Medical & Scientific Relations, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Anna J. Esbensen
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center & University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Joaquin M. Espinosa
- Department of Pharmacology, Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Fabian Fernandez
- Departments of Psychology and Neurology, BIO5 Institute, and The Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Juan Fortea
- Department of Neurology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, CIBERNED, Barcelona, Spain
- Down Medical Center, Catalan Down Syndrome Foundation, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sigan L. Hartley
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Elizabeth Head
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - James Hendrix
- LuMind IDSC Foundation, Burlington, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Priya S. Kishnani
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Florence Lai
- Department of Neurology, Harvard University/Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Patrick Lao
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Cynthia Lemere
- Department of Neurology, Brigham & Women’s Hospital and Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - William Mobley
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | | | - Huntington Potter
- Rocky Mountain Alzheimer’s Disease Center and Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Shahid H. Zaman
- Cambridge Intellectual & Developmental Disability Research Group, Department of Psychiatry University of Cambridge, Cambridgeshire & Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ann-Charlotte Granholm
- Knoebel Institute for Healthy Aging, University of Denver, Denver, Colorado, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society (NVS), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - H. Diana Rosas
- Departments of Neurology and Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andre Strydom
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, South London and the Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, LonDowns Consortium, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | | | - Michael S. Rafii
- Alzheimer’s Therapeutics Research Institute and Department of Neurology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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19
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Todd S, Bernal J, Shearn J, Worth R, Jones E, Lowe K, Madden P, Barr O, Forrester Jones R, Jarvis P, Kroll T, McCarron M, Read S, Hunt K. Last months of life of people with intellectual disabilities: A UK population‐based study of death and dying in intellectual disability community services. JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES 2020; 33:1245-1258. [DOI: 10.1111/jar.12744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stuart Todd
- Care Sciences University of South Wales Pontypridd UK
| | - Jane Bernal
- Care Sciences University of South Wales Pontypridd UK
| | - Julia Shearn
- Care Sciences University of South Wales Pontypridd UK
| | - Rhian Worth
- Care Sciences University of South Wales Pontypridd UK
| | - Edwin Jones
- Care Sciences University of South Wales Pontypridd UK
| | - Kathy Lowe
- Care Sciences University of South Wales Pontypridd UK
| | | | - Owen Barr
- School of Nursing Ulster University Derry UK
| | | | - Paul Jarvis
- Care Sciences University of South Wales Pontypridd UK
| | - Thilo Kroll
- School of Nursing Midwifery and Health Systems University College Dublin Dublin UK
| | - Mary McCarron
- School of Nursing & Midwifery Trinity College Dublin Dublin UK
| | - Sue Read
- School of Nursing & Midwifery University of Keele Newcastle under Lyme UK
| | - Katherine Hunt
- Faculty of Health Sciences Southampton University Southampton UK
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20
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Unravelling the Role of Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3 in Alzheimer's Disease-Related Epileptic Seizures. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21103676. [PMID: 32456185 PMCID: PMC7279454 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia. An increasing body of evidence describes an elevated incidence of epilepsy in patients with AD, and many transgenic animal models of AD also exhibit seizures and susceptibility to epilepsy. However, the biological mechanisms that underlie the occurrence of seizure or increased susceptibility to seizures in AD is unknown. Glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) is a serine/threonine kinase that regulates various cellular signaling pathways, and plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of AD. It has been suggested that GSK-3 might be a key factor that drives epileptogenesis in AD by interacting with the pathological hallmarks of AD, amyloid precursor protein (APP) and tau. Furthermore, seizures may also contribute to the progression of AD through GSK-3. In this way, GSK-3 might be involved in initiating a vicious cycle between AD and seizures. This review aims to summarise the possible role of GSK-3 in the link between AD and seizures. Understanding the role of GSK-3 in AD-associated seizures and epilepsy may help researchers develop new therapeutic approach that can manage seizure and epilepsy in AD patients as well as decelerate the progression of AD.
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21
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Mollo N, Cicatiello R, Aurilia M, Scognamiglio R, Genesio R, Charalambous M, Paladino S, Conti A, Nitsch L, Izzo A. Targeting Mitochondrial Network Architecture in Down Syndrome and Aging. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E3134. [PMID: 32365535 PMCID: PMC7247689 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21093134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are organelles that mainly control energy conversion in the cell. In addition, they also participate in many relevant activities, such as the regulation of apoptosis and calcium levels, and other metabolic tasks, all closely linked to cell viability. Functionality of mitochondria appears to depend upon their network architecture that may dynamically pass from an interconnected structure with long tubular units, to a fragmented one with short separate fragments. A decline in mitochondrial quality, which presents itself as an altered structural organization and a function of mitochondria, has been observed in Down syndrome (DS), as well as in aging and in age-related pathologies. This review provides a basic overview of mitochondrial dynamics, from fission/fusion mechanisms to mitochondrial homeostasis. Molecular mechanisms determining the disruption of the mitochondrial phenotype in DS and aging are discussed. The impaired activity of the transcriptional co-activator PGC-1α/PPARGC1A and the hyperactivation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) kinase are emerging as molecular underlying causes of these mitochondrial alterations. It is, therefore, likely that either stimulating the PGC-1α activity or inhibiting mTOR signaling could reverse mitochondrial dysfunction. Evidence is summarized suggesting that drugs targeting either these pathways or other factors affecting the mitochondrial network may represent therapeutic approaches to improve and/or prevent the effects of altered mitochondrial function. Overall, from all these studies it emerges that the implementation of such strategies may exert protective effects in DS and age-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nunzia Mollo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Rita Cicatiello
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Miriam Aurilia
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Scognamiglio
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Rita Genesio
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Charalambous
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “G. Salvatore”, National Research Council, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Simona Paladino
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Conti
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Lucio Nitsch
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “G. Salvatore”, National Research Council, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Antonella Izzo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
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22
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Rafii MS, Santoro SL. Prevalence and Severity of Alzheimer Disease in Individuals With Down Syndrome. JAMA Neurol 2019; 76:142-143. [PMID: 30452497 DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2018.3443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael S Rafii
- Alzheimer's Therapeutic Research Institute, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, San Diego
| | - Stephanie L Santoro
- Down Syndrome Program, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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23
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Liang Y, Zhou Z, Wang H, Cheng X, Zhong S, Zhao C. Association of apolipoprotein E genotypes with epilepsy risk: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 98:27-35. [PMID: 31299529 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to identify the association between certain genotypes or alleles of the APOE (Apolipoprotein E) gene and the epilepsy risk. METHODS All studies on human APOE genotypes associated with epilepsy were included. Separate meta-analyses were conducted between the patients with epilepsy and the control group from the following three aspects: ε4 carriers or ε2 carriers vs ε3/ε3 (the ε2/ε4 genotype was excluded), ε4 carriers vs ε2 carriers, and five genotypes vs ε3/ε3. The subgroup analysis was conducted on the ethnicity, the control group was healthy or not, and type of epilepsy. RESULTS Nine studies with 2210 individuals were included. Compared with ε3/ε3 genotype, ε4 carriers increased the epilepsy risk (odds ratios [ORs]: 1.27; 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 1.01 to 1.59; P = 0.042), while ε2 carriers had no association with epilepsy risk (OR: 0.88; 95% CI: 0.66 to 1.18; P = 0.184). The risk of epilepsy was 1.45 times greater in ε4 carriers compared with ε2 carriers (OR: 1.45; 95% CI: 1.02 to 2.04; P = 0.037). When the number of APOE ε4 allele increased, the ORs increased progressively (no ε4 alleles, OR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.66 to 1.18; one ε4 allele, OR: 1.25, 95% CI: 0.99 to 1.57; two ε4 alleles, OR: 1.84, 95% CI: 0.83 to 4.10). Apolipoprotein E ε4 carriers had a higher epilepsy risk in the population without primary diseases (OR: 1.43; 95% CI: 1.09 to 1.88), and a higher risk in Asian populations (OR: 1.67; 95% CI: 1.12 to 2.49). CONCLUSIONS Apolipoprotein E ε4 allele genotype was associated with an increased epilepsy risk, which was more prominent in the Asian and the population without primary diseases. These findings may be used to guide the directions of prevention and treatment on epilepsy. Larger clinical studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Liang
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhike Zhou
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Huibin Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xi Cheng
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Shanshan Zhong
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Chuansheng Zhao
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
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Powell G, Ziso B, Larner AJ. The overlap between epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease and the consequences for treatment. Expert Rev Neurother 2019; 19:653-661. [PMID: 31238746 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2019.1629289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Alzheimer's disease may be associated with both clinical and subclinical epileptic seizure activity. Once regarded as an epiphenomenon, epileptiform activity may, in fact, be an integral part of the Alzheimer's phenotype, and may be not only a symptomatic therapeutic target but also a possible mechanism to retard or prevent disease progression. Areas covered: The authors review clinical research articles with a focus on the semiology, epidemiology, and treatment of seizures in Alzheimer's disease, and also look at some experimental animal model studies which have informed clinical thinking on seizure aetiopathogenesis. The evidence base for treatment decisions is sparse. A brief overview of the clinical assessment of Alzheimer's disease patients considering relevant differential diagnoses and diagnostic pitfalls is presented. Expert opinion: Studies of epileptic seizures in Alzheimer's disease have become more frequent over the last 5-10 years. Understanding of seizure semiology, epidemiology, and possible pathogenesis has increased. However, the optimal management of seizures in this context remains unknown, largely due to the paucity of studies sufficient to examine this question. Clearly, such studies will be required, not only to inform clinicians about symptomatic control of seizures in Alzheimer's disease but also to investigate whether this might impact on disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham Powell
- a Mersey Regional Epilepsy Clinic , Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery , Liverpool , UK
| | - Besa Ziso
- a Mersey Regional Epilepsy Clinic , Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery , Liverpool , UK
| | - A J Larner
- b Cognitive Function Clinic , Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery , Liverpool , UK
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Abstract
Virtually all adults with Down syndrome (DS) show the neuropathological changes of Alzheimer disease (AD) by the age of 40 years. This association is partially due to overexpression of amyloid precursor protein, encoded by APP, as a result of the location of this gene on chromosome 21. Amyloid-β accumulates in the brain across the lifespan of people with DS, which provides a unique opportunity to understand the temporal progression of AD and the epigenetic factors that contribute to the age of dementia onset. This age dependency in the development of AD in DS can inform research into the presentation of AD in the general population, in whom a longitudinal perspective of the disease is not often available. Comparison of the risk profiles, biomarker profiles and genetic profiles of adults with DS with those of individuals with AD in the general population can help to determine common and distinct pathways as well as mechanisms underlying increased risk of dementia. This Review evaluates the similarities and differences between the pathological cascades and genetics underpinning DS and AD with the aim of providing a platform for common exploration of these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ira T Lott
- Department of Pediatrics and Neurology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
| | - Elizabeth Head
- Sanders Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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26
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Sinai A, Mokrysz C, Bernal J, Bohnen I, Bonell S, Courtenay K, Dodd K, Gazizova D, Hassiotis A, Hillier R, McBrien J, McCarthy J, Mukherji K, Naeem A, Perez-Achiaga N, Rantell K, Sharma V, Thomas D, Walker Z, Whitham S, Strydom A. Predictors of Age of Diagnosis and Survival of Alzheimer's Disease in Down Syndrome. J Alzheimers Dis 2019; 61:717-728. [PMID: 29226868 PMCID: PMC6004911 DOI: 10.3233/jad-170624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Background: People with Down syndrome (DS) are an ultra-high risk population for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Understanding the factors associated with age of onset and survival in this population could highlight factors associated with modulation of the amyloid cascade. Objective: This study aimed to establish the typical age at diagnosis and survival associated with AD in DS and the risk factors associated with these. Methods: Data was obtained from the Aging with Down Syndrome and Intellectual Disabilities (ADSID) research database, consisting of data extracted from clinical records of patients seen by Community Intellectual Disability Services (CIDS) in England. Survival times when considering different risk factors were calculated. Results: The mean age of diagnosis was 55.80 years, SD 6.29. Median survival time after diagnosis was 3.78 years, and median age at death was approximately 60 years. Survival time was associated with age of diagnosis, severity of intellectual disability, living status, anti-dementia medication status, and history of epilepsy. Age at diagnosis and treatment status remained predictive of survival time following adjustment. Conclusion: This study provides the best estimate of survival in dementia within the DS population to date, and is in keeping with previous estimates from smaller studies in the DS population. This study provides important estimates and insights into possible predictors of survival and age of diagnosis of AD in adults with DS, which will inform selection of participants for treatment trials in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Sinai
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK.,Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Claire Mokrysz
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jane Bernal
- Cornwall Partnership Foundation NHS Trust, UK
| | - Ingrid Bohnen
- Westminster Learning Disability Partnership, Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Simon Bonell
- Livewell SouthWest (CIC), Plymouth, UK (data from South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Maudsley Hospital, London, UK).,Plymouth University Peninsula School of Medicine and Dentistry, Plymouth, UK
| | - Ken Courtenay
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK.,Barnet Enfield and Haringey Mental Health NHS Trust, UK
| | - Karen Dodd
- Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Epsom, UK
| | - Dina Gazizova
- Enfield Integrated Learning Disabilities Service, Enfield, UK
| | - Angela Hassiotis
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK.,Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Judith McBrien
- Plymouth Teaching Primary Care Trust (now known as Livewell Southwest CIC), UK
| | - Jane McCarthy
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Asim Naeem
- Sutton MHLD Team, SW London and St George's Mental Health NHS Trust, Surrey, UK.,St George's University of London, UK
| | | | - Khadija Rantell
- Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, Education Unit, London, UK
| | - Vijaya Sharma
- Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - David Thomas
- Department of Community Mental Health, RAF Marham, Norfolk, UK (data from East London NHS Foundation Trust, UK)
| | - Zuzana Walker
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK.,Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | | | - Andre Strydom
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK.,Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.,The LonDownS Consortium
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27
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Hahm J, Kim KK, Kim DW. Seizure-Related Cortical Volume Alterations in Alzheimer's Disease: A Preliminary Study. J Epilepsy Res 2018; 8:33-40. [PMID: 30090760 PMCID: PMC6066695 DOI: 10.14581/jer.18006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose Alzheimer’s disease (AD) leads to cognitive dysfunction and neuronal loss, both of which can be exacerbated by seizures. For the treatment and diagnosis of AD, it is imperative to identify the cortical characteristics of comorbidities of AD such as seizures. The present study investigated the alterations in cortical volumes in patients with comorbid AD and seizures. Methods In this retrospective study, magnetic resonance T1-weighted brain images were collected from six patients with early AD or amnestic mild cognitive impairment without seizures (AD-No Seizure, age: 66.17 ± 4.92 years) and six individuals with seizures (AD-Seizure, age: 80.33 ± 4.63 years). The gray matter volumes estimated from the T1 images were compared between the groups using nuisance variables (e.g., age). Subsequently, a correlation analysis was performed to investigate the relationship between cortical structure and global cognitive function. Results AD-Seizure group showed volumetric alterations compared with AD-No Seizure group. In the volumetrically altered regions, correlation analysis revealed that the AD-Seizure group showed a positive correlation between the mini-mental state examination (MMSE) score and cortical volume, with smaller volumes than the AD-No Seizure group in the right parahippocampal gyrus, left angular gyrus, and middle temporal gyrus. The AD-No Seizure group showed negative correlations with MMSE score in the volume of right inferior frontal gyrus and cerebellar culmen and a positive correlation with the volume of the left middle frontal gyrus. Conclusions Our findings revealed that smaller temporal region volumes are predictive of cognitive dysfunction in AD patients with seizures. Given that these temporal areas overlap with regions showing abnormal brain activities in AD patients with seizures, these results suggest synergistic effects of AD and seizures on cortical volume and cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarang Hahm
- Department of Neurology, Dongguk University Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, Korea
| | - Kwang Ki Kim
- Department of Neurology, Dongguk University Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, Korea
| | - Dong Wook Kim
- Department of Neurology, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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28
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Cortini F, Cantoni C, Villa C. Epileptic seizures in autosomal dominant forms of Alzheimer's disease. Seizure 2018; 61:4-7. [PMID: 30041064 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2018.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Revised: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a heterogeneous neurodegenerative disorder and represents the most common form of dementia in the elderly. Mutations in genes encoding presenilin 1 (PSEN1), presenilin 2 (PSEN2) and amyloid precursor protein (APP) are responsible for early-onset familial AD (EOFAD). Several pieces of evidence report that patients with rare autosomal dominant forms of AD carry a significant risk to develop seizures. However, the molecular mechanisms linking epilepsy and AD are needed to be clarified: the pathophysiology of seizures in AD may be related to an increased production of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptide or structural alterations in neurons probably due to cerebrovascular changes, neurotransmitter or cytoskeletal dysfunctions. Seizures have traditionally been related to neuronal loss in the late stages of AD as a consequence of neurodegeneration, however, recent studies indicated that seizures may contribute to the emergence of AD symptoms in early stages of the disease, mainly in familial AD. So, a better understanding of possible common neural mechanisms might help to improve the clinical management of both conditions. This review aims to give a comprehensive overview and to analyze the association between epilepsy and EOFAD, focusing on possible overlapping pathological mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Cortini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, IRCCS Ca' Granda Foundation, Milano, Italy; Genetics Laboratory, IRCCS Ca' Granda Foundation, Milan, Italy
| | - Claudia Cantoni
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, USA
| | - Chiara Villa
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy.
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29
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Beagle AJ, Darwish SM, Ranasinghe KG, La AL, Karageorgiou E, Vossel KA. Relative Incidence of Seizures and Myoclonus in Alzheimer's Disease, Dementia with Lewy Bodies, and Frontotemporal Dementia. J Alzheimers Dis 2018; 60:211-223. [PMID: 28826176 DOI: 10.3233/jad-170031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) are more prone to seizures and myoclonus, but relative risk of these symptoms among other dementia types is unknown. OBJECTIVE To determine incidence of seizures and myoclonus in the three most common neurodegenerative dementias: AD, dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). METHODS Our institution's medical records were reviewed for new-onset unprovoked seizures and myoclonus in patients meeting criteria for AD (n = 1,320), DLB (n = 178), and FTD (n = 348). Cumulative probabilities of developing seizures and myoclonus were compared between diagnostic groups, whereas age-stratified incidence rates were determined relative to control populations. RESULTS The cumulative probability of developing seizures after disease onset was 11.5% overall, highest in AD (13.4%) and DLB (14.7%) and lowest in FTD (3.0%). The cumulative probability of developing myoclonus was 42.1% overall, highest in DLB (58.1%). The seizure incidence rates, relative to control populations, were nearly 10-fold in AD and DLB, and 6-fold in FTD. Relative seizure rates increased with earlier age-at-onset in AD (age <50, 127-fold; 50-69, 21-fold; 70+, 2-fold) and FTD (age <50, 53-fold; 50-69, 9-fold), and relative myoclonus rates increased with earlier age-at-onset in all groups. Seizures began an average of 3.9 years after the onset of cognitive or motor decline, and myoclonus began 5.4 years after onset. CONCLUSIONS Seizures and myoclonus occur with greater incidence in patients with AD, DLB, and FTD than in the general population, but rates vary with diagnosis, suggesting varied pathomechanisms of network hyperexcitability. Patients often experience these symptoms early in disease, suggesting hyperexcitability could be an important target for interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J Beagle
- Memory and Aging Center, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Sonja M Darwish
- Memory and Aging Center, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Kamalini G Ranasinghe
- Memory and Aging Center, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Alice L La
- Memory and Aging Center, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Elissaios Karageorgiou
- Memory and Aging Center, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, USA.,Neurological Institute of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Keith A Vossel
- Memory and Aging Center, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, USA.,N. Bud Grossman Center for Memory Research and Care, Institute for Translational Neuroscience, and Department of Neurology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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30
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Sánchez MP, García-Cabrero AM, Sánchez-Elexpuru G, Burgos DF, Serratosa JM. Tau-Induced Pathology in Epilepsy and Dementia: Notions from Patients and Animal Models. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19041092. [PMID: 29621183 PMCID: PMC5979593 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19041092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2018] [Revised: 03/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with dementia present epilepsy more frequently than the general population. Seizures are more common in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), dementia with Lewy bodies (LBD), frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) than in other dementias. Missense mutations in the microtubule associated protein tau (MAPT) gene have been found to cause familial FTD and PSP, while the P301S mutation in MAPT has been associated with early-onset fast progressive dementia and the presence of seizures. Brains of patients with AD, LBD, FTD and PSP show hyperphosphorylated tau aggregates, amyloid-β plaques and neuropil threads. Increasing evidence suggests the existence of overlapping mechanisms related to the generation of network hyperexcitability and cognitive decline. Neuronal overexpression of tau with various mutations found in FTD with parkinsonism-linked to chromosome 17 (FTDP-17) in mice produces epileptic activity. On the other hand, the use of certain antiepileptic drugs in animal models with AD prevents cognitive impairment. Further efforts should be made to search for plausible common targets for both conditions. Moreover, attempts should also be made to evaluate the use of drugs targeting tau and amyloid-β as suitable pharmacological interventions in epileptic disorders. The diagnosis of dementia and epilepsy in early stages of those diseases may be helpful for the initiation of treatments that could prevent the generation of epileptic activity and cognitive deterioration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina P Sánchez
- Laboratory of Neurology, IIS (Instituto Investigación Sanitaria/Health Research Institute)-Jiménez Díaz Foundation, UAM (Universidad Autonoma de Madrid/Autonomous University of Madrid) and Biomedical Research Network Center on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), 28045 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Ana M García-Cabrero
- Laboratory of Neurology, IIS (Instituto Investigación Sanitaria/Health Research Institute)-Jiménez Díaz Foundation, UAM (Universidad Autonoma de Madrid/Autonomous University of Madrid) and Biomedical Research Network Center on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), 28045 Madrid, Spain.
- Department of Immunology and Oncology and Protein Tools Unit, Biotechnology National Center (CNB/CSIC), 28049 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Gentzane Sánchez-Elexpuru
- Laboratory of Neurology, IIS (Instituto Investigación Sanitaria/Health Research Institute)-Jiménez Díaz Foundation, UAM (Universidad Autonoma de Madrid/Autonomous University of Madrid) and Biomedical Research Network Center on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), 28045 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Daniel F Burgos
- Laboratory of Neurology, IIS (Instituto Investigación Sanitaria/Health Research Institute)-Jiménez Díaz Foundation, UAM (Universidad Autonoma de Madrid/Autonomous University of Madrid) and Biomedical Research Network Center on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), 28045 Madrid, Spain.
| | - José M Serratosa
- Laboratory of Neurology, IIS (Instituto Investigación Sanitaria/Health Research Institute)-Jiménez Díaz Foundation, UAM (Universidad Autonoma de Madrid/Autonomous University of Madrid) and Biomedical Research Network Center on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), 28045 Madrid, Spain.
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31
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Corbett BF, You JC, Zhang X, Pyfer MS, Tosi U, Iascone DM, Petrof I, Hazra A, Fu CH, Stephens GS, Ashok AA, Aschmies S, Zhao L, Nestler EJ, Chin J. ΔFosB Regulates Gene Expression and Cognitive Dysfunction in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease. Cell Rep 2018; 20:344-355. [PMID: 28700937 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2017.06.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2016] [Revised: 03/15/2017] [Accepted: 06/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by cognitive decline and 5- to 10-fold increased seizure incidence. How seizures contribute to cognitive decline in AD or other disorders is unclear. We show that spontaneous seizures increase expression of ΔFosB, a highly stable Fos-family transcription factor, in the hippocampus of an AD mouse model. ΔFosB suppressed expression of the immediate early gene c-Fos, which is critical for plasticity and cognition, by binding its promoter and triggering histone deacetylation. Acute histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibition or inhibition of ΔFosB activity restored c-Fos induction and improved cognition in AD mice. Administration of seizure-inducing agents to nontransgenic mice also resulted in ΔFosB-mediated suppression of c-Fos, suggesting that this mechanism is not confined to AD mice. These results explain observations that c-Fos expression increases after acute neuronal activity but decreases with chronic activity. Moreover, these results indicate a general mechanism by which seizures contribute to persistent cognitive deficits, even during seizure-free periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian F Corbett
- Department of Neuroscience and Farber Institute for Neurosciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Jason C You
- Department of Neuroscience and Farber Institute for Neurosciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Xiaohong Zhang
- Department of Neuroscience and Farber Institute for Neurosciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Mark S Pyfer
- Department of Neuroscience and Farber Institute for Neurosciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Umberto Tosi
- Department of Neuroscience and Farber Institute for Neurosciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Daniel M Iascone
- Department of Neuroscience and Farber Institute for Neurosciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Iraklis Petrof
- Department of Neuroscience and Farber Institute for Neurosciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Anupam Hazra
- Department of Neuroscience and Farber Institute for Neurosciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Chia-Hsuan Fu
- Department of Neuroscience and Farber Institute for Neurosciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Gabriel S Stephens
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Annie A Ashok
- Department of Neuroscience and Farber Institute for Neurosciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Suzan Aschmies
- Department of Neuroscience and Farber Institute for Neurosciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Lijuan Zhao
- Department of Neuroscience and Farber Institute for Neurosciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Eric J Nestler
- Fishberg Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Jeannie Chin
- Department of Neuroscience and Farber Institute for Neurosciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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32
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Zis P, Strydom A. Clinical aspects and biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease in Down syndrome. Free Radic Biol Med 2018; 114:3-9. [PMID: 28870521 PMCID: PMC6451620 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2017.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Revised: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) may affect in excess of 90% of individuals with Down syndrome (DS) after age 60, due to duplication of the APP gene in trisomy of chromosome 21, with neuropathology that is comparable to Sporadic AD and Familial AD (FAD). Previous literature suggested some unique features in clinical presentation of dementia in DS (DSd), which might be due to diagnostic difficulties, or represent a real difference compared to SAD or FAD. We review current knowledge on clinical diagnosis and presentation of dementia in DS in comparison with FAD due to APP mutations and APP duplication. We suggest that the clinical presentation in DS (prominent memory decline and behavioral symptoms, and early development of myoclonus and seizures) are similar to the clinical features associated with APP mutations that is known to have an increased Aβ42/ Aβ40 ratio, and highlight the relative lack of vascular complications associated with cerebral amyloid angiopathy in DS in comparison with those rare individuals with FAD due to duplication APP. We consider the biomarker evidence associated with DS and DSd with reference to Aβ peptide levels and oxidative stress, and suggest future directions for research to explore the potential mechanisms associated with the clinical presentation of DSd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Zis
- Academic Department of Neurosciences, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Andre Strydom
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK; Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neurosciences, King's College London, London, UK; The LonDownS Consortium, London, UK.
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33
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Blok JB, Scheirs JGM, Thijm NS. Personality and behavioural changes do not precede memory problems as possible signs of dementia in ageing people with Down syndrome. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2017; 32:1257-1263. [PMID: 27699865 DOI: 10.1002/gps.4606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2015] [Revised: 09/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective was to find out whether changes in personality and adaptive functioning or memory processes decline first in ageing people with Down syndrome. METHODS We measured these variables cross-sectionally in a Dutch sample (22 to 62 years of age) of 68 institutionalised people with Down syndrome. RESULTS The scores on all the variables except one of the temperament scales were found to decline gradually with increasing age, but deterioration of episodic memory started earlier. CONCLUSIONS We argued that a subset of our sample suffered from dementia. Furthermore, the data suggested that immediate memory impairment is one of the earliest signs of the disease in people with Down syndrome, just as it is in the general population. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- J B Blok
- Cello, Residential Centre for People with Intellectual Disabilities, Haaren, The Netherlands
| | | | - N S Thijm
- 's Heeren Loo Advisium, Centre of Expertise for People with Intellectual Disabilities, Monster, The Netherlands
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34
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Fonseca LM, Yokomizo JE, Bottino CM, Fuentes D. Frontal Lobe Degeneration in Adults with Down Syndrome and Alzheimer's Disease: A Review. Dement Geriatr Cogn Disord 2017; 41:123-36. [PMID: 26891227 DOI: 10.1159/000442941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a proven link between Down syndrome and the early development of the neuropathological features of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Changes in the personality and behavior of adults with Down syndrome might indicate the early stages of dementia or of frontotemporal lobar degeneration. The objective of this study was to investigate the executive functions and changes in behavior associated with frontal lobe degeneration in individuals with Down syndrome who develop AD. We conducted a systematic review selecting studies employing cognitive assessments. SUMMARY We identified few studies using objective measurements to determine whether cognitive aspects associated with the frontal lobe correlate with dementia in this population. We observed a tendency toward such correlations. KEY MESSAGES There is a need for further studies in which objective measures of cognitive and behavioral factors are evaluated together with data related to brain function and morphology.
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McCarron M, McCallion P, Reilly E, Dunne P, Carroll R, Mulryan N. A prospective 20-year longitudinal follow-up of dementia in persons with Down syndrome. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2017; 61:843-852. [PMID: 28664561 DOI: 10.1111/jir.12390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Revised: 02/17/2017] [Accepted: 05/03/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
GOAL To examine dementia characteristics, age at onset and associated co-morbidities in persons with Down syndrome. METHOD A total of 77 people with Down syndrome aged 35 years and older were followed up from 1996 to 2015. The diagnosis of dementia was established using the modified ICD 10 Criteria and a combination of objective and informant-based tests. Cognitive tests included the Test for Severe Impairment and the Down Syndrome Mental Status Examination; adaptive behaviour was measured using the Daily Living Skills Questionnaire, and data from the Dementia Questionnaire for People with Intellectual Disabilities have been available since 2005. RESULTS Over the 20-year period, 97.4% (75 of 77) persons developed dementia with a mean age of dementia diagnosis of 55 years (SD = 7.1, median = 56 years). Clinical dementia was associated with cognitive and function decline and seizure activity. Risk for dementia increased from 23% in those aged 50 years to 80% in those aged 65 years and above. There were no differences by level of ID. CONCLUSION The previously reported high risk levels for dementia among people with Down syndrome were confirmed in this data as was the relationship with late onset epilepsy. The value of the instruments utilised in tracking decline and helping to confirm diagnosis is further highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- M McCarron
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - P McCallion
- Center for Excellence in Aging & Community Wellness, University at Albany, Albany, NY, USA
| | - E Reilly
- Daughters of Charity Disability Support Service, Dublin, Ireland
| | - P Dunne
- Daughters of Charity Disability Support Service, Dublin, Ireland
| | - R Carroll
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - N Mulryan
- Daughters of Charity Disability Support Service, Dublin, Ireland
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Vossel KA, Tartaglia MC, Nygaard HB, Zeman AZ, Miller BL. Epileptic activity in Alzheimer's disease: causes and clinical relevance. Lancet Neurol 2017; 16:311-322. [PMID: 28327340 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(17)30044-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 340] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2016] [Revised: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Epileptic activity is frequently associated with Alzheimer's disease; this association has therapeutic implications, because epileptic activity can occur at early disease stages and might contribute to pathogenesis. In clinical practice, seizures in patients with Alzheimer's disease can easily go unrecognised because they usually present as non-motor seizures, and can overlap with other symptoms of the disease. In patients with Alzheimer's disease, seizures can hasten cognitive decline, highlighting the clinical relevance of early recognition and treatment. Some evidence indicates that subclinical epileptiform activity in patients with Alzheimer's disease, detected by extended neurophysiological monitoring, can also lead to accelerated cognitive decline. Treatment of clinical seizures in patients with Alzheimer's disease with select antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), in low doses, is usually well tolerated and efficacious. Moreover, studies in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease suggest that certain classes of AEDs that reduce network hyperexcitability have disease-modifying properties. These AEDs target mechanisms of epileptogenesis involving amyloid β and tau. Clinical trials targeting network hyperexcitability in patients with Alzheimer's disease will identify whether AEDs or related strategies could improve their cognitive symptoms or slow decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith A Vossel
- Memory and Aging Center, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | | | - Haakon B Nygaard
- Division of Neurology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Adam Z Zeman
- Cognitive Neurology Research Group, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, UK
| | - Bruce L Miller
- Memory and Aging Center, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Aivazidis S, Coughlan CM, Rauniyar AK, Jiang H, Liggett LA, Maclean KN, Roede JR. The burden of trisomy 21 disrupts the proteostasis network in Down syndrome. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0176307. [PMID: 28430800 PMCID: PMC5400264 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0176307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2017] [Accepted: 04/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Down syndrome (DS) is a genetic disorder caused by trisomy of chromosome 21. Abnormalities in chromosome number have the potential to lead to disruption of the proteostasis network (PN) and accumulation of misfolded proteins. DS individuals suffer from several comorbidities, and we hypothesized that disruption of proteostasis could contribute to the observed pathology and decreased cell viability in DS. Our results confirm the presence of a disrupted PN in DS, as several of its elements, including the unfolded protein response, chaperone system, and proteasomal degradation exhibited significant alterations compared to euploid controls in both cell and mouse models. Additionally, when cell models were treated with compounds that promote disrupted proteostasis, we observed diminished levels of cell viability in DS compared to controls. Collectively our findings provide a cellular-level characterization of PN dysfunction in DS and an improved understanding of the potential pathogenic mechanisms contributing to disrupted cellular physiology in DS. Lastly, this study highlights the future potential of designing therapeutic strategies that mitigate protein quality control dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanos Aivazidis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - Christina M. Coughlan
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States of America
- The Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - Abhishek K. Rauniyar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - Hua Jiang
- The Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - L. Alexander Liggett
- The Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - Kenneth N. Maclean
- The Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - James R. Roede
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Hefti E, Blanco JG. Pharmacotherapeutic Considerations for Individuals with Down Syndrome. Pharmacotherapy 2017; 37:214-220. [PMID: 27931082 DOI: 10.1002/phar.1880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Down syndrome (DS; trisomy 21) is the most common survivable disorder due to aneuploidy. Individuals with DS may experience multiple comorbid health problems including congenital heart defects, endocrine abnormalities, skin and dental problems, seizure disorders, leukemia, dementia, and obesity. These associated conditions may necessitate pharmacotherapeutic management with various drugs. The complex pathobiology of DS may alter drug disposition and drug response in some individuals. For example, reports have documented increased rates of adverse drug reactions in patients with DS treated for leukemia and dementia. Intellectual disability resulting from DS may impact adherence to medication regimens. In this review, we highlight literature focused on pharmacotherapy for individuals with DS. We discuss reports of altered drug disposition or response in patients with DS and explore social factors that may impact medication adherence in the DS setting. Enhanced monitoring during drug therapy in individuals with DS is justified based on reports of altered drug disposition, drug response, and other characteristics present in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Hefti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
| | - Javier G Blanco
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
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Prasher VP, Mahmood H, Mitra M. Challenges faced in managing dementia in Alzheimer's disease in patients with Down syndrome. Degener Neurol Neuromuscul Dis 2016; 6:85-94. [PMID: 30050371 PMCID: PMC6053091 DOI: 10.2147/dnnd.s91754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Dementia in Alzheimer’s disease (DAD) is more common in adults with Down syndrome (DS), with characteristically an earlier onset. The treatment of DAD is not too dissimilar in the general population and in people with intellectual disabilities. However, the underlying intellectual disability can make the management of DAD more challenging in older adults with DS. This literature review aimed to look at the management of DAD in people with DS. The management of dementia is holistic. This includes treating reversible factors, aiming to slow the cognitive decline, psychological therapies, ensuring that the environment is appropriate, and use of psychotropic medication when necessary to manage behavioral problems, psychotic symptoms, depressive symptoms, and sleep difficulty. Antidementia medications have a role to play but remain limited. The management of DAD in the DS population can be at times challenging, but good clinical practice should involve accurate diagnosis of dementia, treating any reversible additional factors, consideration of psychological and behavioral management, use of antidementia medication, and a multidisciplinary team approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vee P Prasher
- Birmingham Learning Disability Service, Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK,
| | - Hassan Mahmood
- Birmingham Learning Disability Service, Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK,
| | - Madhumanti Mitra
- Birmingham Learning Disability Service, Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK,
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Lin AL, Powell D, Caban-Holt A, Jicha G, Robertson W, Gold BT, Davis R, Abner E, Wilcock DM, Schmitt FA, Head E. (1)H-MRS metabolites in adults with Down syndrome: Effects of dementia. NEUROIMAGE-CLINICAL 2016; 11:728-735. [PMID: 27330972 PMCID: PMC4908308 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2016.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2015] [Revised: 04/11/2016] [Accepted: 06/01/2016] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
To determine if proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) detect differences in dementia status in adults with Down syndrome (DS), we used 1H-MRS to measure neuronal and glial metabolites in the posterior cingulate cortex in 22 adults with DS and in 15 age- and gender-matched healthy controls. We evaluated associations between 1H-MRS results and cognition among DS participants. Neuronal biomarkers, including N-acetylaspartate (NAA) and glutamate-glutamine complex (Glx), were significantly lower in DS patients with Alzheimer's should probably be changed to Alzheimer (without ' or s) through ms as per the new naming standard disease (DSAD) when compared to non-demented DS (DS) and healthy controls (CTL). Neuronal biomarkers therefore appear to reflect dementia status in DS. In contrast, all DS participants had significantly higher myo-inositol (MI), a putative glial biomarker, compared to CTL. Our data indicate that there may be an overall higher glial inflammatory component in DS compared to CTL prior to and possibly independent of developing dementia. When computing the NAA to MI ratio, we found that presence or absence of dementia could be distinguished in DS. NAA, Glx, and NAA/MI in all DS participants were correlated with scores from the Brief Praxis Test and the Severe Impairment Battery. 1H-MRS may be a useful diagnostic tool in future longitudinal studies to measure AD progression in persons with DS. In particular, NAA and the NAA/MI ratio is sensitive to the functional status of adults with DS, including prior to dementia. 1H-MRS was used to compare demented and nondemented adults with Down syndrome. Neuronal biomarkers were lowest in demented adults with Down syndrome. Glial biomarkers including myoinositol were higher in demented adults with DS. Neuronal and glial biomarkers were correlated with cognition in Down syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- A-L Lin
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - D Powell
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Spectroscopy Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA; Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - A Caban-Holt
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - G Jicha
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - W Robertson
- Department of Neurology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - B T Gold
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA; Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Spectroscopy Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA; Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - R Davis
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - E Abner
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - D M Wilcock
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA; Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - F A Schmitt
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - E Head
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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Sano M, Aisen PS, Andrews HF, Tsai WY, Lai F, Dalton AJ. Vitamin E in aging persons with Down syndrome: A randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Neurology 2016; 86:2071-6. [PMID: 27164691 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000002714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2015] [Accepted: 02/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether vitamin E would slow the progression of cognitive deterioration and dementia in aging persons with Down syndrome (DS). METHODS A randomized, double-blind controlled clinical trial was conducted at 21 clinical sites, and researchers trained in research procedures recruited adults with DS older than 50 years to participate. Participants were randomly assigned to receive 1,000 IU of vitamin E orally twice daily for 3 years or identical placebo. The primary outcome was change on the Brief Praxis Test (BPT). Secondary outcomes included incident dementia and measures of clinical global change, cognition, function, and behavior. RESULTS A total of 337 individuals were randomized, 168 to vitamin E and 169 to placebo. Both groups demonstrated deterioration on the BPT with no difference between drug and placebo. At baseline, 26% were diagnosed with dementia and there was an overall rate of incident dementia of 11%/year with no difference between groups. There was no effect on the secondary outcome measures. Though numerically higher in the treatment group, there was no difference in the number of adverse events (p = 0.079) and deaths (p = 0.086) between groups. CONCLUSIONS Vitamin E did not slow the progression of cognitive deterioration in older individuals with DS. CLASSIFICATION OF EVIDENCE This study provides Class II evidence that vitamin E does not significantly slow the progression of cognitive deterioration in aging persons with DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Sano
- From the Department of Psychiatry (M.S.), Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; James J. Peters VAMC (M.S.), Bronx, NY; Alzheimer's Therapeutic Research Institute (P.S.A.), University of Southern California, San Diego; Data Coordinating Center (H.F.A.), New York State Psychiatric Institute; Department of Psychiatry (H.F.A.) and Division of Biostatistics (W.-Y.T.), Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY; Department of Neurology (F.L.), McLean Hospital, Belmont; Harvard Medical School (F.L.), Boston, MA; and Center for Aging Studies (A.J.D.), George Jervis Clinic, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island.
| | - Paul S Aisen
- From the Department of Psychiatry (M.S.), Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; James J. Peters VAMC (M.S.), Bronx, NY; Alzheimer's Therapeutic Research Institute (P.S.A.), University of Southern California, San Diego; Data Coordinating Center (H.F.A.), New York State Psychiatric Institute; Department of Psychiatry (H.F.A.) and Division of Biostatistics (W.-Y.T.), Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY; Department of Neurology (F.L.), McLean Hospital, Belmont; Harvard Medical School (F.L.), Boston, MA; and Center for Aging Studies (A.J.D.), George Jervis Clinic, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island
| | - Howard F Andrews
- From the Department of Psychiatry (M.S.), Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; James J. Peters VAMC (M.S.), Bronx, NY; Alzheimer's Therapeutic Research Institute (P.S.A.), University of Southern California, San Diego; Data Coordinating Center (H.F.A.), New York State Psychiatric Institute; Department of Psychiatry (H.F.A.) and Division of Biostatistics (W.-Y.T.), Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY; Department of Neurology (F.L.), McLean Hospital, Belmont; Harvard Medical School (F.L.), Boston, MA; and Center for Aging Studies (A.J.D.), George Jervis Clinic, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island
| | - Wei-Yann Tsai
- From the Department of Psychiatry (M.S.), Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; James J. Peters VAMC (M.S.), Bronx, NY; Alzheimer's Therapeutic Research Institute (P.S.A.), University of Southern California, San Diego; Data Coordinating Center (H.F.A.), New York State Psychiatric Institute; Department of Psychiatry (H.F.A.) and Division of Biostatistics (W.-Y.T.), Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY; Department of Neurology (F.L.), McLean Hospital, Belmont; Harvard Medical School (F.L.), Boston, MA; and Center for Aging Studies (A.J.D.), George Jervis Clinic, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island
| | - Florence Lai
- From the Department of Psychiatry (M.S.), Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; James J. Peters VAMC (M.S.), Bronx, NY; Alzheimer's Therapeutic Research Institute (P.S.A.), University of Southern California, San Diego; Data Coordinating Center (H.F.A.), New York State Psychiatric Institute; Department of Psychiatry (H.F.A.) and Division of Biostatistics (W.-Y.T.), Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY; Department of Neurology (F.L.), McLean Hospital, Belmont; Harvard Medical School (F.L.), Boston, MA; and Center for Aging Studies (A.J.D.), George Jervis Clinic, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island
| | - Arthur J Dalton
- From the Department of Psychiatry (M.S.), Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; James J. Peters VAMC (M.S.), Bronx, NY; Alzheimer's Therapeutic Research Institute (P.S.A.), University of Southern California, San Diego; Data Coordinating Center (H.F.A.), New York State Psychiatric Institute; Department of Psychiatry (H.F.A.) and Division of Biostatistics (W.-Y.T.), Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY; Department of Neurology (F.L.), McLean Hospital, Belmont; Harvard Medical School (F.L.), Boston, MA; and Center for Aging Studies (A.J.D.), George Jervis Clinic, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island
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Walsh DM, Doran E, Silverman W, Tournay A, Movsesyan N, Lott IT. Rapid assessment of cognitive function in down syndrome across intellectual level and dementia status. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2015; 59:1071-9. [PMID: 26031550 PMCID: PMC4623954 DOI: 10.1111/jir.12200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2014] [Revised: 03/10/2015] [Accepted: 04/14/2015] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adults with Down syndrome (DS) are at risk of developing dementia and cognitive assessment is a fundamental part of the diagnostic process. Previously, we developed a Rapid Assessment for Developmental Disabilities (RADD), a brief, broadly focused direct test of cognition. In the current report, we assess whether the RADD is sensitive to dementia in DS and the degree to which it compares with other cognitive measures of dementia in this population. METHODS In a sample of 114 individuals with DS, with dementia diagnosed in 62%, the RADD was compared with the Dementia Questionnaire for Mentally Retarded Persons (DMR), the Bristol Activities of Daily Living Scale, Severe Impairment Battery (SIB), and the Brief Praxis Test (BPT). RESULTS The RADD showed predicted effects across intellectual disability (ID) levels and dementia status (p < 0.001). Six-month test-retest reliability for the subset of individuals without dementia was high (r(41) = 0.95, p < 0.001). Criterion-referenced validity was demonstrated by correlations between RADD scores and ID levels based upon prior intelligence testing and clinical diagnoses (rs (114) = 0.67, p = 0.001) and with other measures of cognitive skills, such as the BPT, SIB, and DMR-Sum of Cognitive scores (range 0.84 through 0.92). Using receiver operating characteristic curves for groups varying in pre-morbid severity of ID, the RADD exhibited high sensitivity (0.87) and specificity (0.81) in discriminating among individuals with and without dementia, although sensitivity was somewhat lower (0.73) for the subsample of dementia cases diagnosed no more than 2 years prior to their RADD assessment. CONCLUSION Taken together, findings indicated that the RADD, a relatively brief, easy-to-administer test for cognitive function assessment across ID levels and dementia status, would be a useful component of cognitive assessments for adults with DS, including assessments explicitly focused on dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- D M Walsh
- Departments of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of California - Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - E Doran
- Pediatrics, University of California - Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - W Silverman
- Kennedy-Krieger Institute, School of Medicine, John Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - A Tournay
- Pediatrics, University of California - Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - N Movsesyan
- Pediatrics, University of California - Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - I T Lott
- Pediatrics, University of California - Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Neurology, School of Medicine, University of California - Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
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Wiseman FK, Al-Janabi T, Hardy J, Karmiloff-Smith A, Nizetic D, Tybulewicz VLJ, Fisher EMC, Strydom A. A genetic cause of Alzheimer disease: mechanistic insights from Down syndrome. Nat Rev Neurosci 2015; 16:564-74. [PMID: 26243569 PMCID: PMC4678594 DOI: 10.1038/nrn3983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 337] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Down syndrome, which arises in individuals carrying an extra copy of chromosome 21, is associated with a greatly increased risk of early-onset Alzheimer disease. It is thought that this risk is conferred by the presence of three copies of the gene encoding amyloid precursor protein (APP)--an Alzheimer disease risk factor--although the possession of extra copies of other chromosome 21 genes may also play a part. Further study of the mechanisms underlying the development of Alzheimer disease in people with Down syndrome could provide insights into the mechanisms that cause dementia in the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances K Wiseman
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Institute of Neurology, University College London, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Tamara Al-Janabi
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London W1T 7NF, UK
| | - John Hardy
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Institute of Neurology, University College London, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Annette Karmiloff-Smith
- Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development, Birkbeck, University of London, Malet Street, London WC1E 7HX, UK
| | - Dean Nizetic
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Novena Campus, 11 Mandalay Road, Singapore 308232; and the Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, 4 Newark Street, London E1 2AT, UK
| | | | - Elizabeth M C Fisher
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Institute of Neurology, University College London, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - André Strydom
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London W1T 7NF, UK
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Dennis M, Spiegler BJ, Simic N, Sinopoli KJ, Wilkinson A, Yeates KO, Taylor HG, Bigler ED, Fletcher JM. Functional plasticity in childhood brain disorders: when, what, how, and whom to assess. Neuropsychol Rev 2014; 24:389-408. [PMID: 24821533 PMCID: PMC4231018 DOI: 10.1007/s11065-014-9261-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2013] [Accepted: 04/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
At every point in the lifespan, the brain balances malleable processes representing neural plasticity that promote change with homeostatic processes that promote stability. Whether a child develops typically or with brain injury, his or her neural and behavioral outcome is constructed through transactions between plastic and homeostatic processes and the environment. In clinical research with children in whom the developing brain has been malformed or injured, behavioral outcomes provide an index of the result of plasticity, homeostasis, and environmental transactions. When should we assess outcome in relation to age at brain insult, time since brain insult, and age of the child at testing? What should we measure? Functions involving reacting to the past and predicting the future, as well as social-affective skills, are important. How should we assess outcome? Information from performance variability, direct measures and informants, overt and covert measures, and laboratory and ecological measures should be considered. In whom are we assessing outcome? Assessment should be cognizant of individual differences in gene, socio-economic status (SES), parenting, nutrition, and interpersonal supports, which are moderators that interact with other factors influencing functional outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maureen Dennis
- Department of Psychology, Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada,
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Head E, Schmitt FA. Con: are we ready to translate Alzheimer's disease-modifying therapies to people with down syndrome? ALZHEIMERS RESEARCH & THERAPY 2014; 6:61. [PMID: 25478026 PMCID: PMC4255531 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-014-0061-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adults with Down syndrome develop Alzheimer's disease neuropathology in an age-dependent manner. This unique feature provides an opportunity to test interventions targeted for prevention of Alzheimer's disease neuropathology and dementia in Down syndrome. DISCUSSION In considering clinical trial designs, however, there are several challenges that we believe will be critical to examine further. These include: accuracy in dementia, mild cognitive impairment and preclinical Alzheimer's disease diagnoses in Down syndrome; clinical trial outcome measures appropriate for individuals with Down syndrome; in vivo imaging outcome measures (and practical considerations); and contributions of medical co-morbidities to disease progression. Also, when studies are designed, the molecular target may appear to be obvious (for example, targeting beta-amyloid pathology), but chromosome 21 has over 200 additional genes that could influence both positive and negative clinical trial outcomes. SUMMARY Observational longitudinal studies of aging in Down syndrome will be critically important as there is a need to establish sensitive clinical outcome measures and understand the consequences of gene overexpression in relation to specific interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Head
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, 203 Sanders-Brown Building, 800 S. Limestone Street, Lexington 40536-0230, KY, USA
| | - Frederick A Schmitt
- Department of Neurology, Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, 203 Sanders-Brown Building, 800 S. Limestone Street, Lexington 40536-0230, KY, USA
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d'Orsi G, Specchio LM. Progressive myoclonus epilepsy in Down syndrome patients with dementia. J Neurol 2014; 261:1584-97. [PMID: 24893590 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-014-7376-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2014] [Revised: 05/13/2014] [Accepted: 05/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to elucidate the natural history of senile myoclonic epilepsy, a type of myoclonic epilepsy associated with Alzheimer's disease in adult Down syndrome patients. Twelve Down syndrome patients over the age of 40 years with myoclonic epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease underwent clinical, neuropsychological, neurophysiological, and neuroradiological study. The kariotypes, APOE polymorphisms, all exons in the PSEN1 and PSEN2 genes, and exons 16 and 17 in the APP gene were determined for all patients. CSF Aβ42, p-tau181, and t-tauAg were determined for two patients. Three main stages appeared during the course of the syndrome. The first stage was characterized by dementia onset (mean age: 51 ± 6.6 years), diffuse EEG abnormalities during sleep, and cerebral atrophy determined using neuroimaging. During the second stage, myoclonic epilepsy manifested (mean age: 51.4 ± 7.2 years) with myoclonic jerks time-locked to diffuse epileptiform abnormalities upon awakening, which was controlled with antiepileptic drugs. During the third stage (mean age: 54.8 ± 7.6 years), myoclonic seizures were replaced with nonepileptic myoclonus, and cerebellar signs, severe dementia, and photosensitivity developed. All patients showed complete trisomy 21. Mutations were ruled out on the APP, PSEN1, and PSEN2 genes, and APOE analysis revealed ε3/ε3 homozygosity. CSF biomarkers showed a decrease in Aβ42 and an increase in p-tau181. The natural history of senile myoclonic epilepsy is consistent with progressive myoclonus epilepsy. Chromosome 21 is implicated in its pathophysiology; however, other genetic and/or environmental risk factors cannot be excluded. The absence of the APOE type 4 allele could predict its progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe d'Orsi
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Epilepsy Centre, Clinic of Nervous System Diseases, Ospedali Riuniti Foggia, University of Foggia, Via Luigi Pinto 1, 71100, Foggia, Italy,
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Powell D, Caban-Holt A, Jicha G, Robertson W, Davis R, Gold BT, Schmitt FA, Head E. Frontal white matter integrity in adults with Down syndrome with and without dementia. Neurobiol Aging 2014; 35:1562-9. [PMID: 24582640 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2014.01.137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2013] [Revised: 01/16/2014] [Accepted: 01/27/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Adults with Down syndrome (DS) are at high risk for developing Alzheimer's disease after the age of 40 years. To detect white matter (WM) changes in the brain linked to dementia, fractional anisotropy (FA) from diffusion tensor imaging was used. We hypothesized that adults with DS without dementia (DS n = 10), DS with dementia (DSAD n = 10) and age matched non-DS subjects (CTL n = 10) would show differential levels of FA and an association with scores from the Brief Praxis Test and the Severe Impairment Battery. WM integrity differences in DS compared with CTL were found predominantly in the frontal lobes. Across all DS adults, poorer Brief Praxis Test performance correlated with reduced FA in the corpus callosum as well as several association tracts, primarily within frontoparietal regions. Our results demonstrate significantly lower WM integrity in DS compared with controls, particularly in the frontal tracts. DS-related WM integrity reductions in a number of tracts were associated with poorer cognition. These preliminary results suggest that late myelinating frontal pathways may be vulnerable to aging in DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Powell
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Spectroscopy Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Allison Caban-Holt
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Gregory Jicha
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | | | - Roberta Davis
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Brian T Gold
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Spectroscopy Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA; Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Frederick A Schmitt
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Elizabeth Head
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA; Department of Molecular and Biomedical Pharmacology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA.
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McCarron M, McCallion P, Reilly E, Mulryan N. A prospective 14-year longitudinal follow-up of dementia in persons with Down syndrome. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2014; 58:61-70. [PMID: 23902161 DOI: 10.1111/jir.12074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/29/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To examine dementia characteristics, age at onset and associated comorbidities in persons with Down syndrome. METHOD Seventy-seven people with Down syndrome aged 35 years and older were followed longitudinally. The diagnosis of dementia was established using the modified International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) criteria and a combination of objective and informant-based tests. Cognitive tests included the Test for Severe Impairment and the Down Syndrome Mental Status Examination; adaptive behaviour was measured using the Daily Living Skills Questionnaire. The Dementia Questionnaire for Mental Retarded Persons (DMR) was added to the test battery in 2005 and this study includes follow-up data for this instrument. RESULTS Over the 14-year period the average age of diagnosis at 55.41 years (SD = 7.14) was in the higher range of previously reported estimates (51-56 years) and a median survival of 7 years after diagnosis. Persons with dementia in the sample were significantly older than persons without dementia. The presence of dementia was also associated with epilepsy and sensory impairments. Among instruments the DMR appeared most sensitive to tracking change in symptoms over time before diagnosis. CONCLUSION The previously reported high risk levels for dementia among people with Down syndrome was confirmed in these data as was the value of the instruments utilised in tracking decline and helping to confirm diagnosis even in persons with severe intellectual disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- M McCarron
- School of Nursing & Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Zigman WB. Atypical aging in down syndrome. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 18:51-67. [DOI: 10.1002/ddrr.1128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2012] [Revised: 11/14/2012] [Accepted: 11/29/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Warren B. Zigman
- Department of Psychology, Laboratory of Community Psychology, NYS Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities; Staten Island; New York
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Abstract
This chapter reviews the neurological phenotype of Down syndrome (DS) in early development, childhood, and aging. Neuroanatomic abnormalities in DS are manifested as aberrations in gross brain structure as well as characteristic microdysgenetic changes. As the result of these morphological abnormalities, brain circuitry is impaired. While an intellectual disability is ubiquitous in DS, there is a wide range of variation in cognitive performance and a growing understanding between aberrant brain circuitry and the cognitive phenotype. Hypotonia is most marked at birth, affecting gait and ligamentous laxity. Seizures are bimodal in presentation with infantile spasms common in infancy and generalized seizures associated with cognitive decline observed in later years. While all individuals have the characteristic neuropathology of Alzheimer's disease (AD) by age 40 years, the prevalence of dementia is not universal. The tendency to develop AD is related, in part, to several genes on chromosome 21 that are overexpressed in DS. Intraneuronal accumulation of β-amyloid appears to trigger a cascade of neurodegeneration resulting in the neuropathological and clinical manifestations of dementia. Functional brain imaging has elucidated the temporal sequence of amyloid deposition and glucose metabolic rate in the development of dementia in DS. Mitochondrial abnormalities contribute to oxidative stress which is part of AD pathogenesis in DS as well as AD in the general population. A variety of medical comorbidities threaten cognitive performance including sleep apnea, abnormalities in thyroid metabolism, and behavioral disturbances. Mouse models for DS are providing a platform for the formulation of clinical trials with intervention targeted to synaptic plasticity, brain biochemistry, and morphological brain alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ira T Lott
- Department of Pediatrics and Neurology, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine (UCI), Orange, CA, USA.
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