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Gajofatto A, Benedetti MD. Treatment strategies for multiple sclerosis: When to start, when to change, when to stop? World J Clin Cases 2015; 3:545-555. [PMID: 26244148 PMCID: PMC4517331 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v3.i7.545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2014] [Revised: 03/02/2015] [Accepted: 05/06/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the central nervous system determined by a presumed autoimmune process mainly directed against myelin components but also involving axons and neurons. Acute demyelination shows as clinical relapses that may fully or partially resolve, while chronic demyelination and neuroaxonal injury lead to persistent and irreversible neurological symptoms, often progressing over time. Currently approved disease-modifying therapies are immunomodulatory or immunosuppressive drugs that significantly although variably reduce the frequency of attacks of the relapsing forms of the disease. However, they have limited efficacy in preventing the transition to the progressive phase of MS and are of no benefit after it has started. It is therefore likely that the potential advantage of a given treatment is condensed in a relatively limited window of opportunity for each patient, depending on individual characteristics and disease stage, most frequently but not necessarily in the early phase of the disease. In addition, a sizable proportion of patients with MS may have a very mild clinical course not requiring a disease-modifying therapy. Finally, individual response to existing therapies for MS varies significantly across subjects and the risk of serious adverse events remains an issue, particularly for the newest agents. The present review is aimed at critically describing current treatment strategies for MS with a particular focus on the decision of starting, switching and stopping commercially available immunomodulatory and immunosuppressive therapies.
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Gandolfi M, Munari D, Geroin C, Gajofatto A, Benedetti MD, Midiri A, Carla F, Picelli A, Waldner A, Smania N. Sensory integration balance training in patients with multiple sclerosis: A randomized, controlled trial. Mult Scler 2015; 21:1453-62. [PMID: 25583852 DOI: 10.1177/1352458514562438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2014] [Accepted: 11/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Impaired sensory integration contributes to balance disorders in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). OBJECTIVE The objective of this paper is to compare the effects of sensory integration balance training against conventional rehabilitation on balance disorders, the level of balance confidence perceived, quality of life, fatigue, frequency of falls, and sensory integration processing on a large sample of patients with MS. METHODS This single-blind, randomized, controlled trial involved 80 outpatients with MS (EDSS: 1.5-6.0) and subjective symptoms of balance disorders. The experimental group (n = 39) received specific training to improve central integration of afferent sensory inputs; the control group (n = 41) received conventional rehabilitation (15 treatment sessions of 50 minutes each). Before, after treatment, and at one month post-treatment, patients were evaluated by a blinded rater using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale (ABC), Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54, Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), number of falls and the Sensory Organization Balance Test (SOT). RESULTS The experimental training program produced greater improvements than the control group training on the BBS (p < 0.001), the FSS (p < 0.002), number of falls (p = 0.002) and SOT (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Specific training to improve central integration of afferent sensory inputs may ameliorate balance disorders in patients with MS. Clinical Trial Registration (NCT01040117).
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Calabrese M, Gajofatto A, Gobbin F, Turri G, Richelli S, Matinella A, Oliboni ES, Benedetti MD, Monaco S. Late-onset multiple sclerosis presenting with cognitive dysfunction and severe cortical/infratentorial atrophy. Mult Scler 2014; 21:580-9. [DOI: 10.1177/1352458514542363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Although cognitive dysfunction is a relevant aspect of multiple sclerosis (MS) from the earliest disease phase, cognitive onset is unusual thus jeopardizing early and accurate diagnosis. Here we describe 12 patients presenting with cognitive dysfunction as primary manifestation of MS with either mild or no impairment in non-cognitive neurological domains. Methods: Twelve patients with cognitive onset who were subsequently diagnosed with MS (CI-MS) were included in this retrospective study. Twelve cognitively normal MS patients (CN-MS), 12 healthy controls and four patients having progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) served as the reference population. Results: Ten CI-MS patients had progressive clinical course and all patients had late disease onset (median age = 49 years; range = 40–58 years). Among cognitive functions, frontal domains were the most involved. Compared to CN-MS and healthy controls, significant cortical and infratentorial atrophy characterized CI-MS patients. Selective atrophy of midbrain tegmentum with relative sparing of pons, known as “The Hummingbird sign,” was observed in eight CI-MS and in three PSP patients. Discussion: Our observation suggests that MS diagnosis should be taken into consideration in case of cognitive dysfunction, particularly when associated with slowly progressive disease course and severe cortical, cerebellar and brainstem atrophy even in the absence of other major neurological symptoms and signs.
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Calabrese M, Gajofatto A, Benedetti MD. Therapeutic strategies for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: a special focus on reduction of grey matter damage as measured by brain atrophy. Expert Rev Neurother 2014; 14:1417-28. [PMID: 25391525 DOI: 10.1586/14737175.2014.979794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In the past two decades, several pathological and radiological findings convincingly demonstrated that damage of the cortical and deep grey matter is a key issue in multiple sclerosis with a significant impact on physical and cognitive disability. Moreover, it has become increasingly evident that the effect of available therapies on the inflammatory white matter damage is not a guarantee of a meaningful effect on the neurodegenerative process mainly affecting the grey matter. Despite the efficacy of all approved disease-modifying drugs should be measured considering such a relevant aspect of the disease, data from clinical trials are few, scattered and heterogeneous. The aim of this review is to summarize the evidence so far acquired on the effect of reducing grey matter damage produced by current and emerging disease-modifying therapies for multiple sclerosis.
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Gajofatto A, Bianchi MR, Deotto L, Benedetti MD. Are natalizumab and fingolimod analogous second-line options for the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis? A clinical practice observational study. Eur Neurol 2014; 72:173-80. [PMID: 25226868 DOI: 10.1159/000361044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2013] [Accepted: 02/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is unclear whether natalizumab and fingolimod have analogous efficacy for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). OBJECTIVE To compare the outcome of RRMS patients treated with either therapy. METHODS RRMS patients treated with natalizumab or fingolimod at Verona Hospital, Italy, were included. The study design was retrospective, based on prospectively collected clinical and MRI data. As efficacy outcomes, time to relapse, relapse rate, expanded disability status scale (EDSS) score change, and new T2/gadolinium-enhancing lesions on brain MRI were compared over treatment period between the two groups. Multivariate Cox and logistic regression models were used to control for potential confounders. RESULTS Fifty-seven subjects receiving natalizumab and 30 receiving fingolimod for a median duration of 23 (1-63) and 22 (2-35) months, respectively (p = 0.22) were included. Patients treated with natalizumab had a more active pre-treatment disease course compared to those treated with fingolimod. In multivariate analysis, the relapse risk was reduced in patients on natalizumab (Hazard Ratio = 0.33; 95% CI = 0.11-1.03; p = 0.056) compared to those on fingolimod. There was no significant difference in EDSS and MRI outcomes. No relevant unexpected adverse events occurred. One patient discontinued natalizumab for progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. CONCLUSIONS RRMS patients receiving natalizumab had higher baseline disease activity and lower relapse risk over 20 months of treatment compared to those receiving fingolimod. Head-to-head randomized clinical trials are needed.
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Mariotto S, Tamburin S, Salviati A, Ferrari S, Zoccarato M, Giometto B, Bertolasi L, Alessandrini F, Benedetti MD, Monaco S. Anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor encephalitis causing a prolonged depressive disorder evolving to inflammatory brain disease. Case Rep Neurol 2014; 6:38-43. [PMID: 24707266 PMCID: PMC3975751 DOI: 10.1159/000358820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (anti-NMDAR) encephalitis is a rapidly evolving condition that combines psychiatric and neurologic manifestations. Much remains unclear about its clinical onset and subsequent course. Although successful treatment depends on diagnosing the disorder early and therefore minimizing long-term complications, this is a difficult task owing to the atypical onset of this condition and the prolonged clinical course that has been observed in some patients. This report, illustrating a patient with slowly progressing psychiatric manifestations, unusual imaging and electrophysiological features, extends the information on varied clinical phenotypes. Case Report A 32-year-old woman suffered from an isolated depressive disorder for 4 months before undergoing psychiatric evaluation. During the following 5 months, she manifested hypersexuality, dysarthria, imbalance, dyskinesias and decreased word output. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed multifocal hyperintense T2/FLAIR lesions, a few contrast-enhanced, involving the corona radiata, the periventricular white matter, the deep gray nuclei, the optic nerves and the brainstem. MRI spectroscopy disclosed confluent bilateral demyelination and focal optic nerve involvement suggesting widespread encephalitis. Visual evoked potential studies indicated a demyelinating disorder. Serological screening and total body positron-emission tomography yielded negative findings for malignancies. Cerebrospinal fluid examination disclosed IgG oligoclonal bands and anti-NMDAR antibodies. Corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulin provided only slight improvement, whereas switching to cyclophosphamide markedly improved her neurological status. Conclusion In patients with a prolonged clinical course, including psychiatric and neurological symptoms, the differential diagnosis should be anti-NMDAR encephalitis. This report expands the known disease phenotypes in this emerging condition.
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Giordano A, Lugaresi A, Confalonieri P, Granella F, Radice D, Trojano M, Martinelli V, Solari A, Giordano A, Martinelli V, Lugaresi A, Pucci E, Granella F, Trojano M, Solari A, Martinelli V, Pucci E, Messmer Uccelli M, Lugaresi A, Giordano A, Granella F, Solari A, Giordano A, Ferrari G, Martini F, Solari A, Radice D, D’Annunzio G, Lugaresi A, Farina D, Travaglini D, Pietrolongo E, Onofrj M, Torri Clerici V, Bonanno S, Brambilla L, Confalonieri P, Martinelli V, Radaelli M, Messina J, Comi G, Tortorella C, Luciannatelli E, Trojano M, Senesi C, Tsantes E, Granella F, Conti MZ, Rottoli MR, Bellantonio P, Fischetti M, Fantozzi R, Pala A, Traccis S, Di Battista G, Bianchi M, Benedetti MD, Gaetani L, Di Filippo M, Carolei A, Totaro R, Lanzillo R, Brescia Morra V, Coppola R, Cottone S, Chiavazza C, Cavalla P, Leonardi C, Aguglia U, Ziuliani C, Valla P, Sasanelli F, Valentino P, Quattrone A, Martino PG, Russo M, Vita G, Immovilli P. Implementation of the ‘Sapere Migliora’ information aid for newly diagnosed people with multiple sclerosis in routine clinical practice: a late-phase controlled trial. Mult Scler 2014; 20:1234-43. [DOI: 10.1177/1352458513519180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2013] [Accepted: 12/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: The SIMS-Trial showed that the ‘Sapere Migliora’ information aid (IA) for newly diagnosed people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) effectively improved patient knowledge and satisfaction with care. Objectives: The objectives of this paper are to assess the effectiveness of the IA in clinical practice and to compare the whole IA with the take-home booklet/website component alone. Methods: After updating the IA and replacing the CD with a website, a prospective, open-label non-randomised controlled trial compared the whole IA (group A, five SIMS-Trial centres) to take-home (group B, 16 centres). One month after the intervention, participants completed the MS Knowledge Questionnaire (MSKQ), care satisfaction questionnaire (COSM-R) (primary study outcomes), Hospital and Anxiety Depression Scale, and ad hoc questionnaire appraising the IA. Results: We enrolled 159 newly diagnosed PwMS (May 2012–March 2013). Drop-outs were four of 77 (5%, group A) and 11/82 (13%, group B). Primary endpoint (highest tertile both for MSKQ and COSM-R section 2 scores) was achieved by 38/77 (49%) group A and 33/82 (40%) group B ( p = 0.25). Attainment of secondary outcomes was also similar between groups. Conclusions: This study shows that the entire IA is not superior to the booklet/website alone, and that both are comparable in efficacy to the intervention arm of the SIMS-Trial. Trial registration number: ISRCTN78940214.
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Zanier ER, Zoerle T, Fiorini M, Longhi L, Cracco L, Bersano A, Branca V, Benedetti MD, De Simoni MG, Monaco S, Stocchetti N. Heart-fatty acid-binding and tau proteins relate to brain injury severity and long-term outcome in subarachnoid haemorrhage patients. Br J Anaesth 2013; 111:424-32. [PMID: 23650253 DOI: 10.1093/bja/aet149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vasospasm and other secondary neurological insults may follow subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH). Biomarkers have the potential to stratify patient risk and perhaps serve as an early warning sign of delayed ischaemic injury. METHODS Serial cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were collected from 38 consecutive patients with aneurysmal SAH admitted to the neurosurgical intensive care unit. We measured heart-fatty acid-binding protein (H-FABP) and tau protein (τ) levels in the CSF to evaluate their association with brain damage, and their potential as predictors of the long-term outcome. H-FABP and τ were analysed in relation to acute clinical status, assessed by the World Federation of Neurological Surgeons (WFNS) scale, radiological findings, clinical vasospasm, and 6-month outcome. RESULTS H-FABP and τ increased after SAH. H-FABP and τ were higher in patients in poor clinical status on admission (WFNS 4-5) compared with milder patients (WFNS 1-3). Elevated H-FABP and τ levels were also observed in patients with early cerebral ischaemia, defined as a CT scan hypodense lesion visible within the first 3 days after SAH. After the acute phase, H-FABP, and τ showed a delayed increase with the occurrence of clinical vasospasm. Finally, patients with the unfavourable outcome (death, vegetative state, or severe disability) had higher peak levels of both proteins compared with patients with good recovery or moderate disability. CONCLUSIONS H-FABP and τ show promise as biomarkers of brain injury after SAH. They may help to identify the occurrence of vasospasm and predict the long-term outcome.
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Galeotti F, Massari M, D'Alessandro R, Beghi E, Chiò A, Logroscino G, Filippini G, Benedetti MD, Pugliatti M, Santuccio C, Raschetti R. Risk of Guillain-Barré syndrome after 2010-2011 influenza vaccination. Eur J Epidemiol 2013; 28:433-44. [PMID: 23543123 PMCID: PMC3672511 DOI: 10.1007/s10654-013-9797-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2012] [Accepted: 03/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Influenza vaccination has been implicated in Guillain Barré Syndrome (GBS) although the evidence for this link is controversial. A case–control study was conducted between October 2010 and May 2011 in seven Italian Regions to explore the relation between influenza vaccination and GBS. The study included 176 GBS incident cases aged ≥18 years from 86 neurological centers. Controls were selected among patients admitted for acute conditions to the Emergency Department of the same hospital as cases. Each control was matched to a case by sex, age, Region and admission date. Two different analyses were conducted: a matched case–control analysis and a self-controlled case series analysis (SCCS). Case–control analysis included 140 cases matched to 308 controls. The adjusted matched odds ratio (OR) for GBS occurrence within 6 weeks after influenza vaccination was 3.8 (95 % CI: 1.3, 10.5). A much stronger association with gastrointestinal infections (OR = 23.8; 95 % CI 7.3, 77.6) and influenza-like illness or upper respiratory tract infections (OR = 11.5; 95 % CI 5.6, 23.5) was highlighted. The SCCS analysis included all 176 GBS cases. Influenza vaccination was associated with GBS, with a relative risk of 2.1 (95 % CI 1.1, 3.9). According to these results the attributable risk in adults ranges from two to five GBS cases per 1,000,000 vaccinations.
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D’Alessandro R, Vignatelli L, Lugaresi A, Baldin E, Granella F, Tola MR, Malagù S, Motti L, Neri W, Galeotti M, Santangelo M, Fiorani L, Montanari E, Scandellari C, Benedetti MD, Leone M. Risk of multiple sclerosis following clinically isolated syndrome: a 4-year prospective study. J Neurol 2013; 260:1583-93. [DOI: 10.1007/s00415-013-6838-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2012] [Revised: 01/08/2013] [Accepted: 01/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Turatti M, Gajofatto A, Bianchi MR, Ferrari S, Monaco S, Benedetti MD. Benign course of tumour-like multiple sclerosis. Report of five cases and literature review. J Neurol Sci 2012; 324:156-62. [PMID: 23151425 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2012.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2012] [Revised: 10/21/2012] [Accepted: 10/24/2012] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple sclerosis (MS) with initial neuroradiological features suggestive of brain tumour (tumour-like MS) may represent a challenging diagnosis. METHODS Among the patients seen at the MS centre of our Institution between 2000 and 2010, we identified cases presenting with a large (diameter>2 cm), well-defined lesion, suggestive of brain tumour on initial brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Only patients with at least 10 years follow-up were included. RESULTS Five young women with MS who presented with a tumour-like lesion on initial brain MRI are described. All cases presented with sudden-onset neurological deficits due to a single large brain lesion compatible with neoplasm at MRI. Two cases underwent brain stereotactic biopsy, both misdiagnosed as astrocytoma. However, the subsequent clinical and MRI follow-up was consistent with MS in all cases. Unnecessary surgery and radiotherapy were responsible for disability in two cases. In three cases, the course of the disease remains benign after more than 13 years from symptoms onset. CONCLUSIONS Our report of clinical, radiological and pathological features of five tumour-like MS cases confirms that it is mandatory to consider a demyelinating process in the differential diagnosis of tumour-like brain lesions. Many tumour-like MS cases may have a favourable long term prognosis.
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Gajofatto A, Benedetti MD. Prognostic factors of acute partial transverse myelitis. ARCHIVES OF NEUROLOGY 2012; 69:1523-1524. [PMID: 23117920 DOI: 10.1001/archneurol.2012.2302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
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Brigo F, Storti M, Benedetti MD, Rossini F, Nardone R, Tezzon F, Fiaschi A, Bongiovanni LG, Manganotti P. Resting motor threshold in idiopathic generalized epilepsies: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Epilepsy Res 2012; 101:3-13. [PMID: 22542570 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2012.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2012] [Revised: 03/13/2012] [Accepted: 03/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Resting motor threshold (rMT) assessed by means of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is thought to reflect trans-synaptic excitability of cortico-spinal neurons. TMS studies reporting rMT in idiopathic generalized epilepsies (IGEs) yielded discrepant results, so that it is difficult to draw a definitive conclusion on cortico-spinal excitability in IGEs by simple summation of previous results regarding this measure. Our purpose was to carry out a systematic review and a meta-analysis of studies evaluating rMT values obtained during single-pulse TMS in patients with IGEs. Controlled studies measuring rMT by single-pulse TMS in drug-naive patients older than 12 years affected by IGEs were systematically reviewed. rMT values were assessed calculating mean difference and odds ratio with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Fourteen trials (265 epileptic patients and 424 controls) were included. Patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME) have a statistically significant lower rMT compared with controls (mean difference: -6.78; 95% CI -10.55 to -3.00); when considering all subtypes of IGEs and IGEs other than JME no statistically significant differences were found. Overall considered, the results are indicative of a cortico-spinal hyper-excitability in JME, providing not enough evidence for motor hyper-excitability in other subtypes of IGE. The considerable variability across studies probably reflects the presence of relevant clinical and methodological heterogeneity, and higher temporal variability among rMT measurements over time, related to unstable cortical excitability in these patients.
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Paraboschi EM, Soldà G, Gemmati D, Orioli E, Zeri G, Benedetti MD, Salviati A, Barizzone N, Leone M, Duga S, Asselta R. Genetic association and altered gene expression of mir-155 in multiple sclerosis patients. Int J Mol Sci 2011; 12:8695-712. [PMID: 22272099 PMCID: PMC3257096 DOI: 10.3390/ijms12128695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2011] [Revised: 10/31/2011] [Accepted: 11/22/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex autoimmune disease of the central nervous system characterized by chronic inflammation, demyelination, and axonal damage. As microRNA (miRNA)-dependent alterations in gene expression in hematopoietic cells are critical for mounting an appropriate immune response, miRNA deregulation may result in defects in immune tolerance. In this frame, we sought to explore the possible involvement of miRNAs in MS pathogenesis by monitoring the differential expression of 22 immunity-related miRNAs in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of MS patients and healthy controls, by using a microbead-based technology. Three miRNAs resulted >2 folds up-regulated in MS vs controls, whereas none resulted down-regulated. Interestingly, the most up-regulated miRNA (mir-155; fold change = 3.30; P = 0.013) was previously reported to be up-regulated also in MS brain lesions. Mir-155 up-regulation was confirmed by qPCR experiments. The role of mir-155 in MS susceptibility was also investigated by genotyping four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) mapping in the mir-155 genomic region. A haplotype of three SNPs, corresponding to a 12-kb region encompassing the last exon of BIC (the B-cell Integration Cluster non-coding RNA, from which mir-155 is processed), resulted associated with the disease status (P = 0.035; OR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.05–1.77), suggesting that this locus strongly deserves further investigations.
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Corrado L, Bergamaschi L, Barizzone N, Fasano ME, Guerini FR, Salvetti M, Galimberti D, Benedetti MD, Leone M, D'Alfonso S. Association of the CBLB gene with multiple sclerosis: new evidence from a replication study in an Italian population. J Med Genet 2010; 48:210-1. [PMID: 21037273 DOI: 10.1136/jmg.2010.081380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The T allele of rs9657904 within the CBLB gene was recently found to be significantly associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) in a genome-wide association study in Sardinia. OBJECTIVE To replicate this association in an independent population with a different genetic background. METHODS The rs9657904 variant was typed in a sample of 1435 cases and 1466 controls from the Italian mainland. RESULTS It was found that in this sample also, the common allele T of rs9657904 is significantly positively associated (one-tailed p=7.35 × 10(-5)) and with a comparable effect size with MS (OR=1.31, 95% CI 1.14 to 1.52). CONCLUSION These data provide further evidence of the association of MS disease with variation within CBLB.
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Gajofatto A, Monaco S, Fiorini M, Zanusso G, Vedovello M, Rossi F, Turatti M, Benedetti MD. Assessment of Outcome Predictors in First-Episode Acute Myelitis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 67:724-30. [DOI: 10.1001/archneurol.2010.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
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Invernizzi P, Bonometti MA, Turri E, Benedetti MD, Salviati A. A case of Fabry disease with central nervous system (CNS) demyelinating lesions: a double trouble? Mult Scler 2008; 14:1003-6. [PMID: 18632784 DOI: 10.1177/1352458508092355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
We present the case of a 36-year-old woman affected with Fabry disease (FD), with neuroradiologic and laboratory tests suggestive of a coexistent inflammatory demyelinating disease. Since the age of 23, she presented recurrent neurologic deficits, such as right limb paresthesias, diplopia, and right leg weakness. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed multiple demyelinating lesions in periventricular areas, corpus callosum, and spinal cord. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis showed the presence of oligoclonal bands, while visual-evoked potentials were delayed with preserved morphology. FD is usually considered as a differential diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, but we think that the best explanation of all pathological features in this case is the coexistence of the two diseases.
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Fiorini M, Zanusso G, Benedetti MD, Righetti PG, Monaco S. Cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers in clinically isolated syndromes and multiple sclerosis. Proteomics Clin Appl 2007; 1:963-71. [PMID: 21136750 DOI: 10.1002/prca.200700091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2007] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
A panel of three cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) markers for clinically isolated syndromes (CIS) and multiple sclerosis (MS), based on SDS-PAGE, 2-D maps, and immunoblot results, is here proposed. No individual marker has any specificity, though, since they appear in a number of other neurological diseases. However the set of three, with the respective modulation sign (up-regulated or maintained at constant level), appears to be unique for MS. These proteins are: tau protein (levels remaining constant and undistinguishable from controls, contrary to up- and downregulation in other neurological disorders); 14-3-3 protein (strong upregulation of distinct isoforms) and cystatin C (changing in accordance to disease stage and progression). As an additional evidence, one can rely in the pattern of isoforms of 14-3-3, as obtained by 2-D maps and Western blot analysis: this pattern further distinguishes the variation of this protein from other neurological syndromes, notably sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (sCJD), motor neuron diseases and other dementias. In contrast, a similar qualitative and quantitative upregulation of 14-3-3 is observed in Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), a demyelinating condition affecting the peripheral nervous system. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time in which such a panel of biomarkers is reported in MS.
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Mazzola S, Lira MG, Benedetti MD, Salviati A, Ottaviani S, Malerba G, Ortombina M, Pignatti PF. COX-2 promoter region polymorphisms in multiple sclerosis: lack of association of ?765G>C with disease risk. Int J Immunogenet 2007; 34:71-4. [PMID: 17373929 DOI: 10.1111/j.1744-313x.2007.00675.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is extensively expressed in multiple sclerosis lesions suggesting that regulatory variants of the COX-2 gene could be implicated in multiple sclerosis (MS). Screening of the proximal 5' regulatory region and genotyping of -765G>C and -62C>G showed that polymorphisms in this COX-2 region are unlikely to be involved in MS susceptibility.
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Zanusso G, Fiorini M, Farinazzo A, Gelati M, Benedetti MD, Ferrari S, Dalla Libera A, Capaldi S, Monaco HL, Rizzuto N, Monaco S. Phosphorylated 14-3-3zeta protein in the CSF of neuroleptic-treated patients. Neurology 2006; 64:1618-20. [PMID: 15883327 DOI: 10.1212/01.wnl.0000160397.81314.84] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The authors describe 12 neuroleptic-treated patients with dementia of various etiologies who showed CSF elevation of phosphorylated 14-3-3zeta and normal tau protein levels. This contrasted with elevated amounts of 14-3-3 gamma, epsilon, and unphosphorylated zeta coupled to high tau protein levels in Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and negative 14-3-3 assay in drug-free patients with dementia. Characterization of CSF 14-3-3 isoforms and determination of tau protein level can help to distinguish different etiologies of dementia.
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Gomez-Lira M, Moretto G, Bonamini D, Benedetti MD, Pignatti PF, Rizzuto N, Salviati A. Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein polymorphisms and multiple sclerosis. J Neuroimmunol 2002; 133:241-3. [PMID: 12446029 DOI: 10.1016/s0165-5728(02)00361-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A detailed analysis of the coding sequences of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotei (MOG) gene was performed in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and in control individuals and three new polymorphisms are described: T636C, nt 571+77C-->T (IVS 4), and nt 710-44A-->G (IVS 6). Screening studies demonstrated that T636C was present in three MS patients and in no control individual and that polymorphisms nt 571+77C-->T (IVS 4), and nt 710-44A-->G (IVS 6), were present with no significant frequency differences in MS patients and control individuals. No mutations were found after sequencing the coding sequences of the extracellular domain of MOG gene in 20 MS patients and 20 control individuals. Screening studies were also performed for known polymorphisms: G15A, Val142Leu, nt 571+68A-->G (IVS 4), and 571+92C-->G (IVS 4). Polymorphism Val 142 Leu, which is linked to nt 571+68A-->G (IVS 4), resulted under-represented in MS patients.
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Benedetti MD, Salviati A, Filipponi S, Manfredi M, De Togni L, Gomez Lira M, Stenta G, Fincati E, Pampanin M, Rizzuto N, Danti G. Prevalence of dementia and apolipoprotein e genotype distribution in the elderly of buttapietra, verona province, Italy. Neuroepidemiology 2002; 21:74-80. [PMID: 11901276 DOI: 10.1159/000048620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the prevalence of dementia and the apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype distribution in the elderly of Buttapietra, a village near Verona, Italy. All residents over the age of 74 (n = 238), including those who were institutionalized, were studied using a direct-contact, single-phase design. The overall prevalence of dementia, clinically defined by DSM-III-R criteria, was 15.8 cases per 100 population, with age-specific figures increasing steeply with advancing age in both sexes. Alzheimer's disease (AD) was the most frequent dementing disorder (43%). APOE genotyping was determined after DNA amplification by restriction isotyping. We found that the epsilon4 allele and the epsilon3/epsilon4 genotype were associated with all types of dementia, although only the association of epsilon3/epsilon4 with AD reached statistical significance (odds ratio 4.5, 95% confidence interval 1.3-16.1). However, as reported in other Mediterranean countries, the frequency of the epsilon4 allele in our population was low (8.9%), suggesting that the population-attributable risk for AD, at least for elderly individuals (> or =75 years), could be small.
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Fenzi F, Benedetti MD, Moretto G, Rizzuto N. Glial cell and macrophage reactions in rat spinal ganglion after peripheral nerve lesions: an immunocytochemical and morphometric study. Arch Ital Biol 2001; 139:357-65. [PMID: 11603078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
Abstract
Following peripheral nerve injury perineuronal satellite cell reaction in the corresponding spinal ganglion is observed. The mechanisms underlying the glial responses to axon injury remain unknown. In an immunocytochemical and morphometric study we investigated satellite cell and macrophage responses in the rat L4 and L5 dorsal root ganglia (DRG) during the seven days immediately after unilateral sciatic nerve crush or transection. Nerve lesion induced a significant increase of glial fibrillary acidic protein-immunoreactive (GFAP-IR) cells in the ipsilateral L4-L5 DRGs. The number of ED1-positive macrophages significantly increased as well. We found no significant differences between the increases provoked by the two types of nerve lesion, but the macrophage activation was detected earlier after nerve transection than after crush. No correlation was detected between satellite cells and macrophages reactions over the 7 day period we examined. These findings support the idea that intercellular neuron-glial diffusible signals play a major role in DRG glial cell response to peripheral nerve lesion.
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Benedetti MD, Maraganore DM, Bower JH, McDonnell SK, Peterson BJ, Ahlskog JE, Schaid DJ, Rocca WA. Hysterectomy, menopause, and estrogen use preceding Parkinson's disease: an exploratory case-control study. Mov Disord 2001; 16:830-7. [PMID: 11746612 DOI: 10.1002/mds.1170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
We studied the association of Parkinson's disease (PD) with type of menopause (natural or surgical), age at menopause, and postmenopausal estrogen replacement therapy using a case-control design. We used the medical records-linkage system of the Rochester Epidemiology Project to identify 72 women who developed PD in Olmsted County, MN, during the twenty years 1976-1995. Each incident case was matched by age (+/- 1 year) to a general population control subject. We collected exposure data through review of the complete medical records of cases and control subjects in the system. PD cases had undergone hysterectomy (with or without unilateral oophorectomy) significantly more often than control subjects (odds ratio [OR] = 3.36; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.05-10.77). In addition, PD cases had experienced early menopause (< or = 46 years) more commonly than control subjects (OR = 2.18; 95% CI = 0.88-5.39). Finally, PD cases had used estrogens orally or parenterally for at least 6 months after menopause less frequently (8%) than control subjects (14%; OR = 0.47; 95% CI = 0.12-1.85). However, the findings for early menopause and estrogen replacement therapy were not statistically significant. Despite the limited sample size of this exploratory study, we hypothesize that there is an increased risk of PD in conditions causing an early reduction in endogenous estrogen. This hypothesis needs to be confirmed in a larger study.
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Benedetti MD, Bower JH, Maraganore DM, McDonnell SK, Peterson BJ, Ahlskog JE, Schaid DJ, Rocca WA. Smoking, alcohol, and coffee consumption preceding Parkinson's disease: a case-control study. Neurology 2000; 55:1350-8. [PMID: 11087780 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.55.9.1350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the association of PD with preceding smoking, alcohol, and coffee consumption using a case-control design. METHODS The authors used the medical records linkage system of the Rochester Epidemiology Project to identify 196 subjects who developed PD in Olmsted County, MN, during the years 1976 to 1995. Each incident case was matched by age (+/-1 year) and sex to a general population control subject. The authors reviewed the complete medical records of cases and control subjects to abstract exposure information. RESULTS For coffee consumption, the authors found an OR of 0.35 (95% CI = 0.16 to 0.78, p = 0.01), a dose-effect trend (p = 0.003), and a later age at PD onset in cases who drank coffee compared with those who never did (median 72 versus 64 years; p = 0.0002). The inverse association with coffee remained significant after adjustment for education, smoking, and alcohol drinking and was restricted to PD cases with onset at age <72 years and to men. The OR for cigarette smoking was 0.69 (95% CI = 0.45 to 1.08, p = 0.1). The authors found no association between PD and alcohol consumption. Extreme or unusual behaviors such as tobacco chewing or snuff use and a diagnosis of alcoholism were significantly more common in control subjects than cases. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest an inverse association between coffee drinking and PD; however, this association does not imply that coffee has a direct protective effect against PD. Alternative explanations for the association should be considered.
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