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Gao J, Sterling E, Hankin R, Sikal A, Yao Y. Therapeutics Targeting Skeletal Muscle in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Biomolecules 2024; 14:878. [PMID: 39062592 PMCID: PMC11275039 DOI: 10.3390/biom14070878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a complex neuromuscular disease characterized by progressive motor neuron degeneration, neuromuscular junction dismantling, and muscle wasting. The pathological and therapeutic studies of ALS have long been neurocentric. However, recent insights have highlighted the significance of peripheral tissue, particularly skeletal muscle, in disease pathology and treatment. This is evidenced by restricted ALS-like muscle atrophy, which can retrogradely induce neuromuscular junction and motor neuron degeneration. Moreover, therapeutics targeting skeletal muscles can effectively decelerate disease progression by modulating muscle satellite cells for muscle repair, suppressing inflammation, and promoting the recovery or regeneration of the neuromuscular junction. This review summarizes and discusses therapeutic strategies targeting skeletal muscles for ALS treatment. It aims to provide a comprehensive reference for the development of novel therapeutics targeting skeletal muscles, potentially ameliorating the progression of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Yao Yao
- Regenerative Bioscience Center, Department of Animal and Dairy Science, College of Agricultural and Environmental Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA (E.S.)
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Shin-Yi Lin C, Howells J, Rutkove S, Nandedkar S, Neuwirth C, Noto YI, Shahrizaila N, Whittaker RG, Bostock H, Burke D, Tankisi H. Neurophysiological and imaging biomarkers of lower motor neuron dysfunction in motor neuron diseases/amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: IFCN handbook chapter. Clin Neurophysiol 2024; 162:91-120. [PMID: 38603949 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2024.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
This chapter discusses comprehensive neurophysiological biomarkers utilised in motor neuron disease (MND) and, in particular, its commonest form, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). These encompass the conventional techniques including nerve conduction studies (NCS), needle and high-density surface electromyography (EMG) and H-reflex studies as well as novel techniques. In the last two decades, new methods of assessing the loss of motor units in a muscle have been developed, that are more convenient than earlier methods of motor unit number estimation (MUNE),and may use either electrical stimulation (e.g. MScanFit MUNE) or voluntary activation (MUNIX). Electrical impedance myography (EIM) is another novel approach for the evaluation that relies upon the application and measurement of high-frequency, low-intensity electrical current. Nerve excitability techniques (NET) also provide insights into the function of an axon and reflect the changes in resting membrane potential, ion channel dysfunction and the structural integrity of the axon and myelin sheath. Furthermore, imaging ultrasound techniques as well as magnetic resonance imaging are capable of detecting the constituents of morphological changes in the nerve and muscle. The chapter provides a critical description of the ability of each technique to provide neurophysiological insight into the complex pathophysiology of MND/ALS. However, it is important to recognise the strengths and limitations of each approach in order to clarify utility. These neurophysiological biomarkers have demonstrated reliability, specificity and provide additional information to validate and assess lower motor neuron dysfunction. Their use has expanded the knowledge about MND/ALS and enhanced our understanding of the relationship between motor units, axons, reflexes and other neural circuits in relation to clinical features of patients with MND/ALS at different stages of the disease. Taken together, the ultimate goal is to aid early diagnosis, distinguish potential disease mimics, monitor and stage disease progression, quantify response to treatment and develop potential therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Shin-Yi Lin
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Central Clinical School, Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia.
| | - James Howells
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Seward Rutkove
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sanjeev Nandedkar
- Natus Medical Inc, Middleton, Wisconsin, USA and Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Christoph Neuwirth
- Neuromuscular Diseases Unit/ALS Clinic, Kantonsspital, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Yu-Ichi Noto
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Nortina Shahrizaila
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Roger G Whittaker
- Newcastle University Translational and Clinical Research Institute (NUTCRI), Newcastle University., Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Hugh Bostock
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, WC1N 3BG, London, United Kingdom
| | - David Burke
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Hatice Tankisi
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Aarhus University Hospital and Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
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Scala P, Manzo P, Longo R, Giudice V, Ciardulli MC, Serio B, Selleri C, Guadagno L, Rehak L, Maffulli N, Della Porta G. Contribution of peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated by advanced filtration system to myogenesis of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells co-cultured with myoblasts. Heliyon 2023; 9:e17141. [PMID: 37484299 PMCID: PMC10361327 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Contribution of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in myogenesis is still under debate, even though blood filtration systems are commonly used in clinical practice for successfully management of critic limb ischemia. Objectives A commercial blood filter used for autologous human PBMC transplantation procedures is characterized and used to collect PBMCs, that are then added to well-established 2D in vitro myogenic models assembled with a co-culture of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBM-MSCs) and skeletal myoblasts (hSkMs) whit the aim of investigating their potential contribution to stem cell myogenic commitment. Methods A commercial blood filter was physically and chemically studied to understand its morphological characteristics and composition. PBMCs were concentrated using this system, further isolated by Ficoll-Paque density gradient centrifugation, and then added in an upper transwell chamber to a 2D co-culture of hBM-MSCs and hSkMs. Myogenic commitment was investigated by RT-PCR, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry immunophenotyping. Cytokine levels were monitored by ELISA assay in culture media. Results The blood filtration system was disassembled and appeared to be formed by twelve membranes of poly-butylene terephthalate fibers (diameters, 0.9-4.0 μm) with pore size distribution of 1-20 μm. Filter functional characterization was achieved by characterizing collected cells by flow cytometry. Subsequently, collected PBMCs fraction was added to an in-vitro model of hBM-MSC myogenic commitment. In the presence of PBMCs, stem cells significantly upregulated myogenic genes, such as Desmin and MYH2, as confirmed by qRT-PCR and expressed related proteins by immunofluorescence (IF) assay, while downregulated pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL12A at day 14) along the 21 days of culture. Novelty Our work highlights chemical-physical properties of commercial blood filter and suggests that blood filtrated fraction of PBMC might modulate cytokine expression in response to muscle injury and promote myogenic events, supporting their clinical use in autologous transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasqualina Scala
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, 43, 84081 Baronissi SA, Italy
| | - Paola Manzo
- Hematology and Transplant Center, University Hospital “San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi D'Aragona”, Largo Città d'Ippocrate, 1, 84131 Salerno SA, Italy
| | - Raffaele Longo
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132, 84084 Fisciano SA, Italy
| | - Valentina Giudice
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, 43, 84081 Baronissi SA, Italy
- Hematology and Transplant Center, University Hospital “San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi D'Aragona”, Largo Città d'Ippocrate, 1, 84131 Salerno SA, Italy
| | - Maria Camilla Ciardulli
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, 43, 84081 Baronissi SA, Italy
| | - Bianca Serio
- Hematology and Transplant Center, University Hospital “San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi D'Aragona”, Largo Città d'Ippocrate, 1, 84131 Salerno SA, Italy
| | - Carmine Selleri
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, 43, 84081 Baronissi SA, Italy
- Hematology and Transplant Center, University Hospital “San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi D'Aragona”, Largo Città d'Ippocrate, 1, 84131 Salerno SA, Italy
| | - Liberata Guadagno
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132, 84084 Fisciano SA, Italy
| | - Laura Rehak
- Athena Biomedical Innovations, Viale Europa 139, Florence, 50126, Italy
| | - Nicola Maffulli
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, 43, 84081 Baronissi SA, Italy
- Centre for Sports and Exercise Medicine, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, 275 Bancroft Road, London E1 4DG, UK
| | - Giovanna Della Porta
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, 43, 84081 Baronissi SA, Italy
- Interdepartment Centre BIONAM, Università di Salerno, via Giovanni Paolo II, 132, 84084 Fisciano SA, Italy
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Sironi F, De Marchi F, Mazzini L, Bendotti C. Cell therapy in ALS: An update on preclinical and clinical studies. Brain Res Bull 2023; 194:64-81. [PMID: 36690163 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2023.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by the loss of motor neurons and neuromuscular impairment leading to complete paralysis, respiratory failure and premature death. The pathogenesis of the disease is multifactorial and noncell-autonomous involving the central and peripheral compartments of the neuromuscular axis and the skeletal muscle. Advanced clinical trials on specific ALS-related pathways have failed to significantly slow the disease. Therapy with stem cells from different sources has provided a promising strategy to protect the motor units exerting their effect through multiple mechanisms including neurotrophic support and excitotoxicity and neuroinflammation modulation, as evidenced from preclinical studies. Several phase I and II clinical trial of ALS patients have been developed showing positive effects in terms of safety and tolerability. However, the modest results on functional improvement in ALS patients suggest that only a coordinated effort between basic and clinical researchers could solve many problems, such as selecting the ideal stem cell source, identifying their mechanism of action and expected clinical outcomes. A promising approach may be stem cells selected or engineered to deliver optimal growth factor support at multiple sites along the neuromuscular pathway. This review covers recent advances in stem cell therapies in animal models of ALS, as well as detailing the human clinical trials that have been done and are currently undergoing development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Sironi
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri 2, Milan 20156, Italy
| | - Fabiola De Marchi
- Department of Neurology and ALS Centre, University of Piemonte Orientale, Maggiore Della Carità Hospital, Corso Mazzini 18, Novara 28100, Italy
| | - Letizia Mazzini
- Department of Neurology and ALS Centre, University of Piemonte Orientale, Maggiore Della Carità Hospital, Corso Mazzini 18, Novara 28100, Italy.
| | - Caterina Bendotti
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri 2, Milan 20156, Italy.
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Friberger I, Gontu V, Harris RA, Tran TA, Lundberg J, Holmin S. Phenotyping of Macrophages After Radiolabeling and Safety of Intra-arterial Transplantation Assessed by SPECT/CT and MRI. Cell Transplant 2023; 32:9636897231212780. [PMID: 38009543 PMCID: PMC10683405 DOI: 10.1177/09636897231212780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell therapy is an integral modality of regenerative medicine. Macrophages are known for their sensitivity to activation stimuli and capability to recruit other immune cells to the sites of injury and healing. In addition, the route of administration can impact engraftment and efficacy of cell therapy, and modern neuro-interventional techniques provide the possibility for selective intra-arterial (IA) delivery to the central nervous system (CNS) with very low risk. The effects of radiolabelling and catheter transport on differentially activated macrophages were evaluated. Furthermore, the safety of selective IA administration of these macrophages to the rabbit brain was assessed by single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) and ultra-high-field (9.4 T) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Cells were successfully labeled with (111In)In-(oxinate)3 and passed through a microcatheter with preserved phenotype. No cells were retained in the healthy rabbit brain after IA administration, and no adverse events could be observed either 1 h (n = 6) or 24 h (n = 2) after cell administration. The procedure affected both lipopolysaccharide/gamma interferon (LPS/IFNγ) activated cells and interleukin 4 (IL4), interleukin 10 (IL10)/transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ1) activated cells to some degree. The LPS/IFNγ activated cells had a significant increase in their phagocytotic function. Overall, the major impact on the cell phenotypes was due to the radiolabeling and not passage through the catheter. Unstimulated cells were substantially affected by both radiolabeling and catheter administration and are hence not suited for this procedure, while both activated macrophages retained their initial phenotypes. In conclusion, activated macrophages are suitable candidates for targeted IA administration without adverse effects on normal, healthy brain parenchyma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ida Friberger
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Vamsi Gontu
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Neuroradiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Robert A Harris
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Centre for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Thuy A Tran
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Radiopharmacy, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Johan Lundberg
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Neuroradiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Staffan Holmin
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Neuroradiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Ahmed N, Baker MR, Bashford J. The landscape of neurophysiological outcome measures in ALS interventional trials: A systematic review. Clin Neurophysiol 2022; 137:132-141. [PMID: 35313253 PMCID: PMC10166714 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2022.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We collated all interventional clinical trials in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which utilised at least one neurophysiological technique as a primary or secondary outcome measure. By identifying the strengths and limitations of these studies, we aim to guide study design in future trials. METHODS We conducted and reported this systematic review according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Eight databases were searched from inception. In total, 703 studies were retrieved for screening and eligibility assessment. RESULTS Dating back to 1986, 32 eligible interventional clinical trials were identified, recruiting a median of 30 patients per completed trial. The most widely employed neurophysiological techniques were electromyography, motor unit number estimation (including motor unit number index), neurophysiological index and transcranial magnetic stimulation (including resting motor threshold and short-interval intracortical inhibition). Almost 40% of trials reported a positive outcome with respect to at least one neurophysiological measure. The interventions targeted either ion channels, immune mechanisms or neuronal metabolic pathways. CONCLUSIONS Neurophysiology offers many promising biomarkers that can be utilised as outcome measures in interventional clinical trials in ALS. When selecting the most appropriate technique, key considerations include methodological standardisation, target engagement and logistical burden. SIGNIFICANCE Future trial design in ALS would benefit from a standardised, updated and easily accessible repository of neurophysiological outcome measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Ahmed
- GKT School of Medical Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, UK
| | - M R Baker
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - J Bashford
- UK Dementia Research Institute, Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK.
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Tavakol-Afshari J, Boroumand AR, Farkhad NK, Adhami Moghadam A, Sahab-Negah S, Gorji A. Safety and efficacy of bone marrow derived-mesenchymal stem cells transplantation in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Regen Ther 2021; 18:268-274. [PMID: 34466632 PMCID: PMC8377537 DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2021.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cell-based treatments have emerged as potentially effective approaches to delay the progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This study was designed as a single-center, prospective, and open-label study without a placebo control group to assess the safety and efficacy of concurrent intrathecal (IT) and intravenous (IV) administration of autologous bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) in patients with ALS. Autologous BM-MSCs were isolated and expanded under standard conditions. Fifteen patients were neurologically examined before BM-MSCs transplantation (1 × 10 6 cells/kg BW) to evaluate the rate of pre-treatment disease progression. To assess the safety and efficacy, patients were examined at 1, 3, and 6 months following the treatment with BM-MSCs. Adverse reactions were assessed, and the clinical outcome was determined by the evaluation of the ALS functional rating scale-revised (ALSFRS-R) and forced vital capacity (FVC). No serious adverse reaction was observed after combined IT and IV administration of BM-MSCs. The mean ALSFRS-R and FVC values remained stable during the first 3 months of the treatment. However, a significant reduction in ALSFRS-R and FVC levels was observed in these patients 6 months after BM-MSCs administration. Our study revealed that the concurrent IT and IV application of BM-MSCs in patients with ALS is a safe procedure. Furthermore, our data indicate a temporary delay in the progression of ALS after a single combined IT and IV administration of BM-MSCs. Further studies are required to explore if the repeated applications of BM-MSCs could prolong survival and delay the progression of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amir Reza Boroumand
- Neuroscience Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Najmeh Kaffash Farkhad
- Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amir Adhami Moghadam
- Department of Internal Medicine and Critical Care, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
- Specialty of Internal Medicine and Critical Care, Head of Army Hospital ICU and Intensive, Iran
| | - Sajad Sahab-Negah
- Neuroscience Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Shefa Neuroscience Research Center, Khatam Alanbia Hospital, Tehran, Iran
- Corresponding author. Neuroscience Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Pardis Campus, Azadi Square, Kalantari Blvd., Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Ali Gorji
- Neuroscience Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Shefa Neuroscience Research Center, Khatam Alanbia Hospital, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Neurosurgery, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Münster, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Münster, Germany
- Epilepsy Research Center, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Münster, Germany
- Corresponding author. Epilepsy Research Center, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Münster, D-48149, Germany.
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Xu X, Shen D, Gao Y, Zhou Q, Ni Y, Meng H, Shi H, Le W, Chen S, Chen S. A perspective on therapies for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: can disease progression be curbed? Transl Neurodegener 2021; 10:29. [PMID: 34372914 PMCID: PMC8353789 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-021-00250-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease involving both upper and lower motor neurons, leading to paralysis and eventually death. Symptomatic treatments such as inhibition of salivation, alleviation of muscle cramps, and relief of spasticity and pain still play an important role in enhancing the quality of life. To date, riluzole and edaravone are the only two drugs approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of ALS in a few countries. While there is adequate consensus on the modest efficacy of riluzole, there are still open questions concerning the efficacy of edaravone in slowing the disease progression. Therefore, identification of novel therapeutic strategies is urgently needed. Impaired autophagic process plays a critical role in ALS pathogenesis. In this review, we focus on therapies modulating autophagy in the context of ALS. Furthermore, stem cell therapies, gene therapies, and newly-developed biomaterials have great potentials in alleviating neurodegeneration, which might halt the disease progression. In this review, we will summarize the current and prospective therapies for ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojiao Xu
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610054, China.,Institute of Neurology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences-Sichuan Provincial Hospital, Chengdu, 610031, China
| | - Dingding Shen
- Department of Neurology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200020, China
| | - Yining Gao
- Department of Neurology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200020, China
| | - Qinming Zhou
- Department of Neurology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200020, China
| | - You Ni
- Department of Neurology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200020, China
| | - Huanyu Meng
- Department of Neurology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200020, China
| | - Hongqin Shi
- Department of Neurology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200020, China.,Department of Neurology, Xinrui Hospital, Wuxi, 214028, China
| | - Weidong Le
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610054, China. .,Institute of Neurology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences-Sichuan Provincial Hospital, Chengdu, 610031, China. .,Center for Clinical Research on Neurological Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116021, China.
| | - Shengdi Chen
- Department of Neurology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200020, China.
| | - Sheng Chen
- Department of Neurology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200020, China.
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Abstract
Background: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease of upper and lower motor neurons with high burden on society. Despite tremendous efforts over the last several decades, there is still no definite cure for ALS. Up to now, only two disease-modifying agents, riluzole and edaravone, are approved by U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for ALS treatment, which only modestly improves survival and disease progression. Major challenging issues to find an effective therapy are heterogeneity in the pathogenesis and genetic variability of ALS. As such, stem cell therapy has been recently a focus of both preclinical and clinical investigations of ALS. This is because stem cells have multifaceted features that can potentially target multiple pathogenic mechanisms in ALS even though its underlying mechanisms are not completely elucidated. Methods & Results: Here, we will have an overview of stem cell therapy in ALS, including their therapeutic mechanisms, the results of recent clinical trials as well as ongoing clinical trials. In addition, we will further discuss complications and limitations of stem cell therapy in ALS. Conclusion: The determination of whether stem cells offer a viable treatment strategy for ALS rests on well-designed and appropriately powered future clinical trials. Randomized, double-blinded, and sham-controlled studies would be valuable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goun Je
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA USA
| | - Kiandokht Keyhanian
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA USA
| | - Mehdi Ghasemi
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA USA
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Vissers MFJM, Heuberger JAAC, Groeneveld GJ. Targeting for Success: Demonstrating Proof-of-Concept with Mechanistic Early Phase Clinical Pharmacology Studies for Disease-Modification in Neurodegenerative Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1615. [PMID: 33562713 PMCID: PMC7915613 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The clinical failure rate for disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) that slow or stop disease progression has been nearly 100% for the major neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs), with many compounds failing in expensive and time-consuming phase 2 and 3 trials for lack of efficacy. Here, we critically review the use of pharmacological and mechanistic biomarkers in early phase clinical trials of DMTs in NDDs, and propose a roadmap for providing early proof-of-concept to increase R&D productivity in this field of high unmet medical need. A literature search was performed on published early phase clinical trials aimed at the evaluation of NDD DMT compounds using MESH terms in PubMed. Publications were selected that reported an early phase clinical trial with NDD DMT compounds between 2010 and November 2020. Attention was given to the reported use of pharmacodynamic (mechanistic and physiological response) biomarkers. A total of 121 early phase clinical trials were identified, of which 89 trials (74%) incorporated one or multiple pharmacodynamic biomarkers. However, only 65 trials (54%) used mechanistic (target occupancy or activation) biomarkers to demonstrate target engagement in humans. The most important categories of early phase mechanistic and response biomarkers are discussed and a roadmap for incorporation of a robust biomarker strategy for early phase NDD DMT clinical trials is proposed. As our understanding of NDDs is improving, there is a rise in potentially disease-modifying treatments being brought to the clinic. Further increasing the rational use of mechanistic biomarkers in early phase trials for these (targeted) therapies can increase R&D productivity with a quick win/fast fail approach in an area that has seen a nearly 100% failure rate to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurits F. J. M. Vissers
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Zernikedreef 8, 2333 CL Leiden, The Netherlands; (J.A.A.C.H.); (G.J.G.)
- Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jules A. A. C. Heuberger
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Zernikedreef 8, 2333 CL Leiden, The Netherlands; (J.A.A.C.H.); (G.J.G.)
| | - Geert Jan Groeneveld
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Zernikedreef 8, 2333 CL Leiden, The Netherlands; (J.A.A.C.H.); (G.J.G.)
- Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
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Sleutjes BTHM, Ruisch J, Nassi TE, Buitenweg JR, van Schelven LJ, van den Berg LH, Franssen H, Stephan Goedee H. Impact of stimulus duration on motor unit thresholds and alternation in compound muscle action potential scans. Clin Neurophysiol 2021; 132:323-331. [PMID: 33450554 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2020.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the impact of stimulus duration on motor unit (MU) thresholds and alternation within compound muscle action potential (CMAP) scans. METHODS The stimulus duration (0.1, 0.2, 0.6, and 1.0 ms) in thenar CMAP scans and individual MUs of 14 healthy subjects was systematically varied. We quantified variability of individual MU's thresholds by relative spread (RS), MU thresholds by stimulus currents required to elicit target CMAPs of 5% (S5), 50% (S50) and 95% (S95) of the maximum CMAP, and relative range (RR) by 100*[S95-S5]/S50. We further assessed the strength-duration time constant (SDTC). Experimental observations were subsequently simulated to quantify alternation. RESULTS RS, unaffected by stimulus duration, was 1.65% averaged over all recordings. RR increased for longer stimulus duration (11.4% per ms, p < 0.001). SDTC shortened with higher target CMAPs (0.007 ms per 10% CMAP, p < 0.001). Experiments and simulations supported that this may underlie the increased RR. A short compared to long stimulus duration recruited relative more MUs at S50 (more alternation) than at the tails (less alternation). CONCLUSIONS The stimulus duration significantly affects MU threshold distribution and alternation within CMAP scans. SIGNIFICANCE Stimulation settings can be further optimized and their standardization is preferred when using CMAP scans for monitoring neuromuscular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boudewijn T H M Sleutjes
- Department of Neurology, Brain Centre Utrecht, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Janna Ruisch
- Biomedical Signals and Systems, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Thijs E Nassi
- Biomedical Signals and Systems, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Jan R Buitenweg
- Biomedical Signals and Systems, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Leonard J van Schelven
- Department of Medical Technology and Clinical Physics, University Medical Center Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Leonard H van den Berg
- Department of Neurology, Brain Centre Utrecht, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Hessel Franssen
- Department of Neurology, Brain Centre Utrecht, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - H Stephan Goedee
- Department of Neurology, Brain Centre Utrecht, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Nikseresht S, Hilton JB, Kysenius K, Liddell JR, Crouch PJ. Copper-ATSM as a Treatment for ALS: Support from Mutant SOD1 Models and Beyond. Life (Basel) 2020; 10:E271. [PMID: 33158182 PMCID: PMC7694234 DOI: 10.3390/life10110271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier permeant, copper-containing compound, CuII(atsm), has successfully progressed from fundamental research outcomes in the laboratory through to phase 2/3 clinical assessment in patients with the highly aggressive and fatal neurodegenerative condition of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The most compelling outcomes to date to indicate potential for disease-modification have come from pre-clinical studies utilising mouse models that involve transgenic expression of mutated superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1). Mutant SOD1 mice provide a very robust mammalian model of ALS with high validity, but mutations in SOD1 account for only a small percentage of ALS cases in the clinic, with the preponderant amount of cases being sporadic and of unknown aetiology. As per other putative drugs for ALS developed and tested primarily in mutant SOD1 mice, this raises important questions about the pertinence of CuII(atsm) to broader clinical translation. This review highlights some of the challenges associated with the clinical translation of new treatment options for ALS. It then provides a brief account of pre-clinical outcomes for CuII(atsm) in SOD1 mouse models of ALS, followed by an outline of additional studies which report positive outcomes for CuII(atsm) when assessed in cell and mouse models of neurodegeneration which do not involve mutant SOD1. Clinical evidence for CuII(atsm) selectively targeting affected regions of the CNS in patients is also presented. Overall, this review summarises the existing evidence which indicates why clinical relevance of CuII(atsm) likely extends beyond the context of cases of ALS caused by mutant SOD1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Nikseresht
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; (S.N.); (J.B.H.); (J.R.L.)
| | - James B.W. Hilton
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; (S.N.); (J.B.H.); (J.R.L.)
| | - Kai Kysenius
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics and Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia;
| | - Jeffrey R. Liddell
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; (S.N.); (J.B.H.); (J.R.L.)
| | - Peter J. Crouch
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics and Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia;
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