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Mercier C, Rollason V, Eshmawey M, Mendes A, Frisoni GB. The treatment of behavioural and psychological symptoms in dementia: pragmatic recommendations. Psychogeriatrics 2024. [PMID: 38638077 DOI: 10.1111/psyg.13116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are a clinical challenge for the lack of a sound taxonomy, frequent presentation with comorbid BPSD, lack of specific pharmacologic interventions, poor base of methodologically sound evidence with randomized clinical trials, contamination from the treatment of behavioural disturbances of young and adult psychiatric conditions, and small efficacy window of psychotropic drugs. We present here a treatment workflow based on a concept-driven literature review based on the notions that (i) the aetiology of BPSD can be mainly neurobiological (so-called 'primary' symptoms) or mainly environmental and functional ('secondary' symptoms) and that this drives treatment; (ii) the clinical efficacy of psychotropic drugs is driven by their specific profile of receptor affinity; (iii) drug treatment should follow the rules of 'start low-go slow, prescribe and revise'. This article argues in support of the distinction between primary and secondary BPSD, as well as their characteristics, which until now have been just sketchily described in the literature. It also offers comprehensive and pragmatic clinician-oriented recommendations for the treatment of BPSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Mercier
- Laboratory of Neuroimaging of Aging (LANVIE), University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Memory Center, Department of Rehabilitation and Geriatrics, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Victoria Rollason
- Department of Acute Medicine, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology Service, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Mohamed Eshmawey
- Department of Psychiatry, Geriatric Psychiatry Service, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Aline Mendes
- Geriatrics and Rehabilitation Department, Department of Rehabilitation and Geriatrics, University Hospitals of Geneva and University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Giovanni B Frisoni
- Laboratory of Neuroimaging of Aging (LANVIE), University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Memory Center, Department of Rehabilitation and Geriatrics, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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2
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Cummings J, Sano M, Auer S, Bergh S, Fischer CE, Gerritsen D, Grossberg G, Ismail Z, Lanctôt K, Lapid MI, Mintzer J, Palm R, Rosenberg PB, Splaine M, Zhong K, Zhu CW. Reduction and prevention of agitation in persons with neurocognitive disorders: an international psychogeriatric association consensus algorithm. Int Psychogeriatr 2024; 36:251-262. [PMID: 36876335 PMCID: PMC10480345 DOI: 10.1017/s104161022200103x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To develop an agitation reduction and prevention algorithm is intended to guide implementation of the definition of agitation developed by the International Psychogeriatric Association (IPA). DESIGN Review of literature on treatment guidelines and recommended algorithms; algorithm development through reiterative integration of research information and expert opinion. SETTING IPA Agitation Workgroup. PARTICIPANTS IPA panel of international experts on agitation. INTERVENTION Integration of available information into a comprehensive algorithm. MEASUREMENTS None. RESULTS The IPA Agitation Work Group recommends the Investigate, Plan, and Act (IPA) approach to agitation reduction and prevention. A thorough investigation of the behavior is followed by planning and acting with an emphasis on shared decision-making; the success of the plan is evaluated and adjusted as needed. The process is repeated until agitation is reduced to an acceptable level and prevention of recurrence is optimized. Psychosocial interventions are part of every plan and are continued throughout the process. Pharmacologic interventions are organized into panels of choices for nocturnal/circadian agitation; mild-moderate agitation or agitation with prominent mood features; moderate-severe agitation; and severe agitation with threatened harm to the patient or others. Therapeutic alternatives are presented for each panel. The occurrence of agitation in a variety of venues-home, nursing home, emergency department, hospice-and adjustments to the therapeutic approach are presented. CONCLUSIONS The IPA definition of agitation is operationalized into an agitation management algorithm that emphasizes the integration of psychosocial and pharmacologic interventions, reiterative assessment of response to treatment, adjustment of therapeutic approaches to reflect the clinical situation, and shared decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Cummings
- Joy Chambers-Grundy Professor of Brain Science, Director, Chambers-Grundy Center for Transformative Neuroscience, Co-Director, Pam Quirk Brain Health and Biomarker Laboratory, Department of Brain Health, School of Integrated Health Sciences. University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV)
| | - Mary Sano
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NYC NY and James J. Peters VAMC, Bronx NY
| | - Stefanie Auer
- Centre for Dementia Studies, University for Continuing Education Krems, Austria
| | - Sverre Bergh
- The research centre for age-related functional decline and disease, Innlandet hospital trust, Ottestad, Norway
| | - Corinne E. Fischer
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Canada
| | - Debby Gerritsen
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud university medical center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud Alzheimer Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - George Grossberg
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Neuroscience, Division of Geriatric Psychiatry St Louis University School of Medicine
| | - Zahinoor Ismail
- Departments Psychiatry, Neurology, Epidemiology, and Pathology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute & O’Brien Institute for Public Health University of Calgary
| | - Krista Lanctôt
- Hurvitz Brain Sciences Research Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute; and Departments of Psychiatry and Pharmacology/Toxicology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Maria I Lapid
- Mayo Clinic Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Jacobo Mintzer
- Psychiatrist, Ralph. H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC and Professor, College of Health Professions, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Rebecca Palm
- Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, 58455 Witten, Germany
| | - Paul B. Rosenberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
| | - Michael Splaine
- Owner Splaine Consulting, Managing Partner, Recruitment Partners LLC
| | - Kate Zhong
- Department of Brain Health, School of Integrated Health Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas
| | - Carolyn W. Zhu
- Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine, NYC, NY and James J. Peters VAMC, Bronx NY
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Gharat R, Dixit G, Khambete M, Prabhu A. Targets, trials and tribulations in Alzheimer therapeutics. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 962:176230. [PMID: 38042464 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.176230] [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: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by abnormal accumulation of extracellular amyloid beta senile plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles in the parts of the brain responsible for cognition. The therapeutic burden for the management of AD relies solely on cholinesterase inhibitors that provide only symptomatic relief. The urgent need for disease-modifying drugs has resulted in intensive research in this domain, which has led to better understanding of the disease pathology and identification of a plethora of new pathological targets. Currently, there are over a hundred and seventy clinical trials exploring disease modification, cognitive enhancement, and reduction of neuro-psychiatric complications. However, the path to developing safe and efficacious AD therapeutics has not been without challenges. Several clinical trials have been terminated in advanced stages due to lack of therapeutic translation or increased incidence of adverse events. This review presents an in-depth look at the various therapeutic targets of AD and the lessons learnt during their clinical assessment. Comprehensive understanding of the implication of modulating various aspects of Alzheimer brain pathology is crucial for development of drugs with potential to halt disease progression in Alzheimer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruchita Gharat
- SVKM's Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy, VM Road, Vile Parle (West), Mumbai, 400056, Maharashtra, India
| | - Gargi Dixit
- SVKM's Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy, VM Road, Vile Parle (West), Mumbai, 400056, Maharashtra, India
| | - Mihir Khambete
- Department of Chemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Arati Prabhu
- SVKM's Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy, VM Road, Vile Parle (West), Mumbai, 400056, Maharashtra, India.
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Fava M. How should we design future mechanistic and/or efficacy clinical trials? Neuropsychopharmacology 2024; 49:197-204. [PMID: 37237086 PMCID: PMC10700333 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-023-01600-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of new molecular targets, together with the development of new approaches to neuropsychiatric diseases, involving psychedelics as well as gene and cell therapies, are creating the need to improve the efficiency of mechanistic and/or efficacy clinical trials. This review article will discuss a number of issues that have hampered our ability to detect therapeutic signals, from excessive placebo/sham response rates to the imprecision of diagnostic and outcome assessments. In addition to reviewing the limitations of current efficacy and mechanistic neuropsychiatric clinical trials, this review presents some of the methodological approaches that may improve the overall performance of our neuropsychiatric trials, including the adoption of novel study designs such as the sequential parallel comparison design and independent confirmation of the appropriateness of subjects' enrollment. In addition, this review will discuss several designs that make mechanistic clinical trials more precise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Fava
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
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Teixeira AL, Rocha NP, Gatchel J. Behavioral or neuropsychiatric symptoms of Alzheimer's disease: from psychopathology to pharmacological management. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2023; 81:1152-1162. [PMID: 38157881 PMCID: PMC10756775 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1777774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Neuropsychiatric or behavioral symptoms of dementia encompass a series of disorders, such as anxiety, depression, apathy, psychosis, and agitation, all commonly present in individuals living with dementia. While they are not required for the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD), they are ubiquitously present in all stages of the disease, contributing to negative clinical outcomes, including cognitive decline, functional disability, and caregiver burden. Neuropsychiatric symptoms have been conceptualized not only as risk factors but as clinical markers of decline along the AD spectrum. The concept of "mild behavioral impairment", the behavioral correlate of mild cognitive impairment, has been proposed within this framework. The first steps in the management of behavioral symptoms in AD involve defining the target and investigating potential causes and/or aggravating factors. Once these factors are addressed, non-pharmacological approaches are preferred as first-line interventions. Following the optimization of anticholinesterase treatments, specific pharmacological approaches (e.g., antidepressants, antipsychotics) can be considered weighing potential side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Lucio Teixeira
- University of Texas University of Texas Health Science Center, McGovern Medical School, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Neuropsychiatry Program, Houston, Texas, United States.
- Faculdade Santa Casa Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte MG, Brazil.
| | - Natalia Pessoa Rocha
- University of Texas Health Science Center, McGovern Medical School, Department of Neurology, Houston, Texas, United States.
| | - Jennifer Gatchel
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Boston, Massachusetts, United States.
- Baylor College of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Houston, Texas, United States.
- Michael E. Debakey VA Medical Center, Houston, Texas, United States.
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Makeeva VS, Dyrkheeva NS, Lavrik OI, Zakian SM, Malakhova AA. Mutant-Huntingtin Molecular Pathways Elucidate New Targets for Drug Repurposing. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16798. [PMID: 38069121 PMCID: PMC10706709 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The spectrum of neurodegenerative diseases known today is quite extensive. The complexities of their research and treatment lie not only in their diversity. Even many years of struggle and narrowly focused research on common pathologies such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and other brain diseases have not brought cures for these illnesses. What can be said about orphan diseases? In particular, Huntington's disease (HD), despite affecting a smaller part of the human population, still attracts many researchers. This disorder is known to result from a mutation in the HTT gene, but having this information still does not simplify the task of drug development and studying the mechanisms of disease progression. Nonetheless, the data accumulated over the years and their analysis provide a good basis for further research. Here, we review studies devoted to understanding the mechanisms of HD. We analyze genes and molecular pathways involved in HD pathogenesis to describe the action of repurposed drugs and try to find new therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladlena S. Makeeva
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 10 Akad. Lavrentiev Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (V.S.M.); (S.M.Z.); (A.A.M.)
| | - Nadezhda S. Dyrkheeva
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 8 Akad. Lavrentiev Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia;
| | - Olga I. Lavrik
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 8 Akad. Lavrentiev Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia;
| | - Suren M. Zakian
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 10 Akad. Lavrentiev Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (V.S.M.); (S.M.Z.); (A.A.M.)
| | - Anastasia A. Malakhova
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 10 Akad. Lavrentiev Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (V.S.M.); (S.M.Z.); (A.A.M.)
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Banerjee S, Farina N, Henderson C, High J, Stirling S, Shepstone L, Fountain J, Ballard C, Bentham P, Burns A, Fox C, Francis P, Howard R, Knapp M, Leroi I, Livingston G, Nilforooshan R, Nurock S, O'Brien J, Price A, Thomas AJ, Swart AM, Telling T, Tabet N. A pragmatic, multicentre, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomised trial to assess the safety, clinical and cost-effectiveness of mirtazapine and carbamazepine in people with Alzheimer's disease and agitated behaviours: the HTA-SYMBAD trial. Health Technol Assess 2023; 27:1-108. [PMID: 37929672 PMCID: PMC10641860 DOI: 10.3310/vpdt7105] [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] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Agitation is common and impacts negatively on people with dementia and carers. Non-drug patient-centred care is first-line treatment, but we need other treatment when this fails. Current evidence is sparse on safer and effective alternatives to antipsychotics. Objectives To assess clinical and cost-effectiveness and safety of mirtazapine and carbamazepine in treating agitation in dementia. Design Pragmatic, phase III, multicentre, double-blind, superiority, randomised, placebo-controlled trial of the clinical effectiveness of mirtazapine over 12 weeks (carbamazepine arm discontinued). Setting Twenty-six UK secondary care centres. Participants Eligibility: probable or possible Alzheimer's disease, agitation unresponsive to non-drug treatment, Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory score ≥ 45. Interventions Mirtazapine (target 45 mg), carbamazepine (target 300 mg) and placebo. Outcome measures Primary: Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory score 12 weeks post randomisation. Main economic outcome evaluation: incremental cost per six-point difference in Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory score at 12 weeks, from health and social care system perspective. Data from participants and informants at baseline, 6 and 12 weeks. Long-term follow-up Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory data collected by telephone from informants at 6 and 12 months. Randomisation and blinding Participants allocated 1 : 1 : 1 ratio (to discontinuation of the carbamazepine arm, 1 : 1 thereafter) to receive placebo or carbamazepine or mirtazapine, with treatment as usual. Random allocation was block stratified by centre and residence type with random block lengths of three or six (after discontinuation of carbamazepine, two or four). Double-blind, with drug and placebo identically encapsulated. Referring clinicians, participants, trial management team and research workers who did assessments were masked to group allocation. Results Two hundred and forty-four participants recruited and randomised (102 mirtazapine, 102 placebo, 40 carbamazepine). The carbamazepine arm was discontinued due to slow overall recruitment; carbamazepine/placebo analyses are therefore statistically underpowered and not detailed in the abstract. Mean difference placebo-mirtazapine (-1.74, 95% confidence interval -7.17 to 3.69; p = 0.53). Harms: The number of controls with adverse events (65/102, 64%) was similar to the mirtazapine group (67/102, 66%). However, there were more deaths in the mirtazapine group (n = 7) by week 16 than in the control group (n = 1). Post hoc analysis suggests this was of marginal statistical significance (p = 0.065); this difference did not persist at 6- and 12-month assessments. At 12 weeks, the costs of unpaid care by the dyadic carer were significantly higher in the mirtazapine than placebo group [difference: £1120 (95% confidence interval £56 to £2184)]. In the cost-effectiveness analyses, mean raw and adjusted outcome scores and costs of the complete cases samples showed no differences between groups. Limitations Our study has four important potential limitations: (1) we dropped the proposed carbamazepine group; (2) the trial was not powered to investigate a mortality difference between the groups; (3) recruitment beyond February 2020, was constrained by the COVID-19 pandemic; and (4) generalisability is limited by recruitment of participants from old-age psychiatry services and care homes. Conclusions The data suggest mirtazapine is not clinically or cost-effective (compared to placebo) for agitation in dementia. There is little reason to recommend mirtazapine for people with dementia with agitation. Future work Effective and cost-effective management strategies for agitation in dementia are needed where non-pharmacological approaches are unsuccessful. Study registration This trial is registered as ISRCTN17411897/NCT03031184. Funding This project was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 27, No. 23. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sube Banerjee
- Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Nicolas Farina
- Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
- Centre for Dementia Studies, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton and Hove, UK
| | - Catherine Henderson
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Juliet High
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk, UK
| | - Susan Stirling
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk, UK
| | - Lee Shepstone
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk, UK
| | - Julia Fountain
- Coordinator for Service User and Carer Involvement in Research, Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Brighton and Hove, UK
| | - Clive Ballard
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Peter Bentham
- Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health Foundation NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Alistair Burns
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Chris Fox
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk, UK
| | - Paul Francis
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Robert Howard
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Martin Knapp
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Iracema Leroi
- Department of Psychiatry, Global Brain Health Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Gill Livingston
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Ramin Nilforooshan
- Research and Development, Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Leatherhead, UK
| | - Shirley Nurock
- Former Carer, Alzheimer's Society Research Network, London, UK
| | - John O'Brien
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge School of Medicine, Cambridge, UK
| | - Annabel Price
- Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Alan J Thomas
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Ann Marie Swart
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk, UK
| | - Tanya Telling
- Joint Clinical Research Office, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Naji Tabet
- Centre for Dementia Studies, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton and Hove, UK
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Devanand DP. Management of neuropsychiatric symptoms in dementia. Curr Opin Neurol 2023; 36:498-503. [PMID: 37639488 PMCID: PMC10529332 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000001199] [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] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The purpose is to review the results and clinical implications of recent studies of neuropathology in relation to neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) in Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, and discuss new therapeutic approaches based on evidence from clinical trials. RECENT FINDINGS In a large autopsy series from a national consortium, multiple neuropathologies of dementia subtypes were common and increased severity of specific NPS during life was associated with greater severity of neuropathology across diagnoses. Based on three clinical trials, brexpiprazole, which is an antipsychotic with dopamine and serotonin receptor partial agonism properties, was recently approved for the treatment of agitation in Alzheimer's dementia by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Its therapeutic profile indicates modest efficacy with high safety. Brexpiprazole has not been compared to other antipsychotics that are commonly prescribed to treat agitation in dementia, though none of them have been approved for this indication. Other drugs that showed positive results in Phase 2 trials are being tested in Phase 3 trials. These include cannabinoids and drug combinations that inhibit dextromethorphan metabolism peripherally, thereby increasing its bioavailability in the brain. Apathy is common in several types of dementia, and there is initial evidence that treatment with methylphenidate, a psychostimulant, may be efficacious with good tolerability. SUMMARY Greater understanding of the associations between NPS and dementia subtypes can improve clinical management of these disorders. In addition to the approval of brexpiprazole to treat agitation in Alzheimer's dementia, there is optimism about other medications based on ongoing clinical trials. Along with short-term improvement, altering the adverse impact on NPS on long-term prognosis remains an important challenge for the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- D P Devanand
- Professor of Psychiatry and Neurology, Director Brain Aging and Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University Irving Medical Center, USA
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McClure EW, Daniels RN. Classics in Chemical Neuroscience: Dextromethorphan (DXM). ACS Chem Neurosci 2023. [PMID: 37290117 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Dextromethorphan (DXM) was introduced in 1958 as the first non-opioid cough suppressant and is indicated for multiple psychiatric disorders. It has been the most used over-the-counter cough suppressant since its emergence. However, individuals quickly noticed an intoxicating and psychedelic effect if they ingested large doses. DXM's antagonism at N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors (NMDAr) is thought to underly its efficacy in treating acute cough, but supratherapeutic doses mimic the activity of dissociative hallucinogens, such as phencyclidine and ketamine. In this Review we will discuss DXM's synthesis, manufacturing information, drug metabolism, pharmacology, adverse effects, recreational use, abuse potential, and its history and importance in therapy to present DXM as a true classic in chemical neuroscience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliot W McClure
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lipscomb University College of Pharmacy, Nashville, Tennessee 37204, United States
| | - R Nathan Daniels
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Union University College of Pharmacy, Jackson, Tennessee 38305, United States
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Malar DS, Thitilertdecha P, Ruckvongacheep KS, Brimson S, Tencomnao T, Brimson JM. Targeting Sigma Receptors for the Treatment of Neurodegenerative and Neurodevelopmental Disorders. CNS Drugs 2023; 37:399-440. [PMID: 37166702 PMCID: PMC10173947 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-023-01007-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The sigma-1 receptor is a 223 amino acid-long protein with a recently identified structure. The sigma-2 receptor is a genetically unrelated protein with a similarly shaped binding pocket and acts to influence cellular activities similar to the sigma-1 receptor. Both proteins are highly expressed in neuronal tissues. As such, they have become targets for treating neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Huntington's disease (HD), Parkinson's disease (PD), multiple sclerosis (MS), Rett syndrome (RS), developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEE), and motor neuron disease/amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (MND/ALS). In recent years, there have been many pre-clinical and clinical studies of sigma receptor (1 and 2) ligands for treating neurological disease. Drugs such as blarcamesine, dextromethorphan and pridopidine, which have sigma-1 receptor activity as part of their pharmacological profile, are effective in treating multiple aspects of several neurological diseases. Furthermore, several sigma-2 receptor ligands are under investigation, including CT1812, rivastigmine and SAS0132. This review aims to provide a current and up-to-date analysis of the current clinical and pre-clinical data of drugs with sigma receptor activities for treating neurological disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dicson S Malar
- Natural Products for Neuroprotection and Anti-ageing Research Unit, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Premrutai Thitilertdecha
- Siriraj Research Group in Immunobiology and Therapeutic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kanokphorn S Ruckvongacheep
- Department of Clinical Microscopy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sirikalaya Brimson
- Department of Clinical Microscopy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tewin Tencomnao
- Natural Products for Neuroprotection and Anti-ageing Research Unit, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - James M Brimson
- Natural Products for Neuroprotection and Anti-ageing Research Unit, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
- Research, Innovation and International Affairs, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Room 409, ChulaPat-1 Building, 154 Rama 1 Road, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.
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Lee D, Clark ED, Antonsdottir IM, Porsteinsson AP. A 2023 update on the advancements in the treatment of agitation in Alzheimer's disease. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2023; 24:691-703. [PMID: 36958727 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2023.2195539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) in Alzheimer's Disease (AD) are associated with negative outcomes for patients and their care partners. Agitation is one of the most common and distressing NPS, yet we lack safe and effective treatment options. While nonpharmacologic interventions are considered first line treatment, these may not be effective or appropriate for every patient. Our current approaches to the pharmacologic treatment of agitation in AD consist of the off-label use of antipsychotics, sedative/hypnotics, anxiolytics, mood-stabilizing anticonvulsants, acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, NMDA receptor antagonists, and antidepressants. Despite their prevalent use, they have questionable efficacy and significant safety concerns. AREAS COVERED Advances in the understanding of neurobiological mechanisms of agitation have fueled recent clinical trials. This article is an update to our 2017 review. A comprehensive search of ClinicalTrials.gov was completed from January 2017 to June 2022 using the search terms "Alzheimer's Disease" and "Agitation". A subsequent scoping review was completed in PubMed and Google Scholar. Several agents were identified for promise in treating agitation, including: brexpiprazole, cannabinoids, dexmedetomidine, dextromethorphan, escitalopram, masupirdine, and prazosin. EXPERT OPINION Clinical trials remain underway utilizing both novel and repurposed agents to address symptoms of agitation in AD. With increasing understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms that fuel the development of agitation in AD, the use of enhanced trial design and conduct, advanced statistical approaches, and accelerated pathways for regulatory approval, we are advancing closer to having safe and efficacious treatment options for agitation in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Lee
- Alzheimer's Disease Care, Research and Education (AD-CARE), Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642
| | - Emily D Clark
- Alzheimer's Disease Care, Research and Education (AD-CARE), Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642
| | - Inga M Antonsdottir
- Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, 525 N. Wolfe Street, 21205, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Richman Family Precision Medicine Center of Excellence in Alzheimer's Disease, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bayview, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Anton P Porsteinsson
- Alzheimer's Disease Care, Research and Education (AD-CARE), Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642
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12
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Technical Review of Clinical Outcomes Assessments Across the Continuum of Alzheimer's Disease. Neurol Ther 2023; 12:571-595. [PMID: 36790638 PMCID: PMC10043075 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-023-00443-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Insight into the relationship between concepts that matter to the people affected by Alzheimer's disease (AD) and the clinical outcome assessments (COAs) commonly used in AD clinical studies is limited. Phases 1 and 2 of the What Matters Most (WMM) study series identified and quantitatively confirmed 42 treatment-related outcomes that are important to people affected by AD. METHODS We compared WMM concepts rated as "very important" or higher to items included in COAs used commonly in AD studies. RESULTS Twenty COAs designed to assess signs, symptoms, and impacts across the spectrum of AD were selected for review. Among these 20 COAs, only 5 reflected 12 or more WMM concepts [Integrated Alzheimer's Disease Rating Scale (iADRS), Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study-Activities of Daily Living Inventory (ADCS-ADL), Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study-Activities of Daily Living Inventory-Mild Cognitive Impairment (ADCS-ADL-MCI), Alzheimer's Disease Composite Scores (ADCOMS), and Clinical Dementia Rating; Clinical Dementia Rating-Sum of Boxes (CDR/CDR-SB)]. Multiple symptoms and impacts of AD identified as important and meaningful in the WMM studies map only indirectly at best to 7 of the 20 most widely used COAs. CONCLUSION While many frequently used COAs in AD capture some concepts identified as important to AD populations and their care partners, overlap between any single measure and the concepts that matter to people affected by AD is limited. The highest singly matched COA reflects fewer than half (45%) of WMM concepts. Use of multiple COAs expands coverage of meaningful concepts. Future research should explore the content validity of AD COAs planned for AD trials based on further confirmation of the ecological validity of the WMM items. This research should inform development and use of core outcome sets that capture WMM items and selection or development of new companion tools to fully demonstrate clinically meaningful outcomes spanning WMM.
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13
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Correll CU, Solmi M, Cortese S, Fava M, Højlund M, Kraemer HC, McIntyre RS, Pine DS, Schneider LS, Kane JM. The future of psychopharmacology: a critical appraisal of ongoing phase 2/3 trials, and of some current trends aiming to de-risk trial programmes of novel agents. World Psychiatry 2023; 22:48-74. [PMID: 36640403 PMCID: PMC9840514 DOI: 10.1002/wps.21056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite considerable progress in pharmacotherapy over the past seven decades, many mental disorders remain insufficiently treated. This situation is in part due to the limited knowledge of the pathophysiology of these disorders and the lack of biological markers to stratify and individualize patient selection, but also to a still restricted number of mechanisms of action being targeted in monotherapy or combination/augmentation treatment, as well as to a variety of challenges threatening the successful development and testing of new drugs. In this paper, we first provide an overview of the most promising drugs with innovative mechanisms of action that are undergoing phase 2 or 3 testing for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, anxiety and trauma-related disorders, substance use disorders, and dementia. Promising repurposing of established medications for new psychiatric indications, as well as variations in the modulation of dopamine, noradrenaline and serotonin receptor functioning, are also considered. We then critically discuss the clinical trial parameters that need to be considered in depth when developing and testing new pharmacological agents for the treatment of mental disorders. Hurdles and perils threatening success of new drug development and testing include inadequacy and imprecision of inclusion/exclusion criteria and ratings, sub-optimally suited clinical trial participants, multiple factors contributing to a large/increasing placebo effect, and problems with statistical analyses. This information should be considered in order to de-risk trial programmes of novel agents or known agents for novel psychiatric indications, increasing their chances of success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph U Correll
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry, Zucker Hillside Hospital, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Molecular Medicine, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
- Center for Psychiatric Neuroscience, Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Marco Solmi
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Mental Health, Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (OHRI) Clinical Epidemiology Program, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Centre for Innovation in Mental Health, School of Psychology, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Samuele Cortese
- Centre for Innovation in Mental Health, School of Psychology, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences (CNS and Psychiatry), Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- Solent NHS Trust, Southampton, UK
- Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Hassenfeld Children's Hospital at NYU Langone, New York University Child Study Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Maurizio Fava
- Depression Clinical and Research Program, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mikkel Højlund
- Department of Public Health, Clinical Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Environmental Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Mental Health Services in the Region of Southern Denmark, Department of Psychiatry Aabenraa, Aabenraa, Denmark
| | - Helena C Kraemer
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Cupertino, CA, USA
| | - Roger S McIntyre
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Canadian Rapid Treatment Center of Excellence, Mississauga, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Daniel S Pine
- Section on Developmental Affective Neuroscience, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Lon S Schneider
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, and Department of Neurology, Keck School of Medicine, and L. Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - John M Kane
- Department of Psychiatry, Zucker Hillside Hospital, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Molecular Medicine, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
- Center for Psychiatric Neuroscience, Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
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14
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Maziero MP, Rocha NP, Teixeira AL. Antipsychotics in Alzheimer's Disease: Current Status and Therapeutic Alternatives. Curr Alzheimer Res 2023; 20:682-691. [PMID: 38409713 DOI: 10.2174/0115672050287534240215052417] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Psychosis and hyperactive behaviors, such as agitation and wandering, affect a significant proportion of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). These symptoms are often treated with antipsychotics, usually in an off-label approach. This mini-review provides an updated perspective on the pharmacological approach for the neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) in AD. The results of new studies have provided a better understanding of AD-related NPS management, but high-quality evidence still needs to be obtained. Herein, we argue for a more cautious approach to the use of antipsychotics in AD and highlight the importance of exploring alternative treatments for NPS. By doing so, we can ensure that patients with AD receive optimal care that is both effective and safe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Paula Maziero
- Department of Neurology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Natalia P Rocha
- Department of Neurology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Antonio L Teixeira
- Department of Neurology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- The Glenn Biggs Institute for Alzheimer's & Neurodegenerative Diseases, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, TX, USA
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15
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Herrmann N, Wang HJ, Song BX, Bawa KK, Lanctôt KL. Risks and benefits of current and novel drugs to treat agitation in Alzheimer's disease. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2022; 21:1289-1301. [PMID: 36252087 DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2022.2136162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION At present, no pharmacological interventions have been approved for the treatment of agitation in Alzheimer's disease (AD), an important neuropsychiatric symptom that has been linked to increased mortality and greater caregiver burden. Antipsychotics offer some benefit, but increase the risk of adverse events such as falls, extrapyramidal symptoms, stroke, and mortality. Over the past 10 years, several new and repurposed medications have shown promise for treating AD-associated agitation. AREAS COVERED We review the risks and benefits of emerging therapies for agitation in AD, which include newer atypical antipsychotics, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, cannabinoids, and dextromethorphan combination products. Other drugs such as mirtazapine, prazosin, and lithium are also discussed. Clinicaltrials.gov, PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Central databases were searched for relevant studies from 1 January 2012 to 1 May 2022. EXPERT OPINION At the present time, there are no pharmacological interventions for the treatment of agitation in AD whose benefits clearly outweigh their potential safety concerns. Therefore, management of agitation in AD should primarily be based on non-pharmacological approaches. When medications are considered necessary, they should only be initiated with the caregiver's appreciation of their risks and benefits and with careful and ongoing assessment of their safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Herrmann
- Department of Psychiatry, Neuropsychopharmacology Research Group, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hui Jue Wang
- Department of Psychiatry, Neuropsychopharmacology Research Group, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bing Xin Song
- Department of Psychiatry, Neuropsychopharmacology Research Group, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kritleen K Bawa
- Department of Psychiatry, Neuropsychopharmacology Research Group, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Krista L Lanctôt
- Department of Psychiatry, Neuropsychopharmacology Research Group, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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16
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Nirogi R, Jayarajan P, Benade V, Shinde A, Goyal VK, Jetta S, Ravula J, Abraham R, Grandhi VR, Subramanian R, Pandey SK, Badange RK, Mohammed AR, Jasti V, Ballard C, Cummings J. Potential beneficial effects of masupirdine (SUVN-502) on agitation/aggression and psychosis in patients with moderate Alzheimer's disease: Exploratory post hoc analyses. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2022; 37:10.1002/gps.5813. [PMID: 36168659 PMCID: PMC9828442 DOI: 10.1002/gps.5813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The effects of masupirdine on the neuropsychiatric symptoms were explored. METHODS Masupirdine (SUVN-502) was evaluated for its effects on cognition in patients with moderate AD. The prespecified primary outcome showed no drug-placebo difference. Post hoc analyses of domains of the 12-item neuropsychiatric inventory scale were carried out. RESULTS In a subgroup of patients (placebo, n = 57; masupirdine 50 mg, n = 53; masupirdine 100 mg, n = 48) with baseline agitation/aggression symptoms ≥1, a statistically significant reduction in agitation/aggression scores was observed in masupirdine 50 mg (95% confidence interval (CI), -1.9 to -0.5, p < 0.001) and masupirdine 100 mg (95% CI, -1.7 to -0.3, p = 0.007) treated arms at Week 13 in comparison to placebo and the effect was sustained for trial duration of 26 weeks in the masupirdine 50 mg treatment arm (95% CI, -2.3 to -0.8, p < 0.001). Similar observations were noted in the subgroup of patients (placebo, n = 29; masupirdine 50 mg, n = 30; masupirdine 100 mg, n = 21) with baseline agitation/aggression symptoms ≥3. In the subgroup of patients (placebo, n = 28; masupirdine 50 mg, n = 28; masupirdine 100 mg, n = 28) who had baseline psychosis symptoms and/or symptom emergence, a significant reduction in psychosis scores was observed in the masupirdine 50 mg (Week 4: 95% CI, -2.8 to -1.4, p < 0.001; Week 13: 95% CI, -3.3 to -1.3, p < 0.001) and masupirdine 100 mg (Week 4: 95% CI, -1.4 to 0, p = 0.046; Week 13: 95% CI, -1.9 to 0.1, p = 0.073) treatment arms in comparison to placebo. CONCLUSION Further research is warranted to explore the potential beneficial effects of masupirdine on NPS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vijay Benade
- Suven Life Sciences LimitedHyderabadTelanganaIndia
| | - Anil Shinde
- Suven Life Sciences LimitedHyderabadTelanganaIndia
| | | | - Satish Jetta
- Suven Life Sciences LimitedHyderabadTelanganaIndia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Venkat Jasti
- Suven Life Sciences LimitedHyderabadTelanganaIndia
| | | | - Jeffrey Cummings
- Department of Brain HealthChambers‐Grundy Center for Transformative NeuroscienceSchool of Integrated Health SciencesUniversity of NevadaLas VegasNevadaUSA
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17
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Ayhan Y, Yoseph SA, Miller BL. Management of Psychiatric Symptoms in Dementia. Neurol Clin 2022; 41:123-139. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2022.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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18
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Brucki SMD, Aprahamian I, Borelli WV, Silveira VCD, Ferretti CEDL, Smid J, Barbosa BJAP, Schilling LP, Balthazar MLF, Frota NAF, Souza LCD, Vale FAC, Caramelli P, Bertolucci PHF, Chaves MLF, Nitrini R, Schultz RR, Morillo LS. Management in severe dementia: recommendations of the Scientific Department of Cognitive Neurology and Aging of the Brazilian Academy of Neurology. Dement Neuropsychol 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/1980-5764-dn-2022-s107en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other neurodegenerative dementias have a progressive course, impairing cognition, functional capacity, and behavior. Most studies have focused on AD. Severe dementia is associated with increased age, higher morbidity-mortality, and rising costs of care. It is fundamental to recognize that severe dementia is the longest period of progression, with patients living for many years in this stage. It is the most heterogeneous phase in the process, with different abilities and life expectancies. This practice guideline focuses on severe dementia to improve management and care in this stage of dementia. As it is a long period in the continuum of dementia, clinical practice should consider non-pharmacological and pharmacological approaches. Multidisciplinary interventions (physical therapy, speech therapy, nutrition, nursing, and others) are essential, besides educational and support to caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ivan Aprahamian
- Faculdade de Medicina de Jundiaí, Brasil; University of Groningen, The Netherlands; Universidade de São Paulo, Brasil
| | | | | | | | | | - Breno José Alencar Pires Barbosa
- Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil; Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Brasil; Instituto de Medicina Integral Prof. Fernando Figueira, Brasil
| | - Lucas Porcello Schilling
- Pontifícia Universidade do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil; Pontifícia Universidade do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil; Pontifícia Universidade do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil
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19
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Brucki SMD, Aprahamian I, Borelli WV, Silveira VCD, Ferretti CEDL, Smid J, Barbosa BJAP, Schilling LP, Balthazar MLF, Frota NAF, Souza LCD, Vale FAC, Caramelli P, Bertolucci PHF, Chaves MLF, Nitrini R, Schultz RR, Morillo LS. Manejo das demências em fase avançada: recomendações do Departamento Científico de Neurologia Cognitiva e do Envelhecimento da Academia Brasileira de Neurologia. Dement Neuropsychol 2022; 16:101-120. [DOI: 10.1590/1980-5764-dn-2022-s107pt] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
RESUMO A doença de Alzheimer (DA) e outras demências neurodegenerativas têm um curso progressivo com comprometimento da cognição, capacidade funcional e comportamento. A maioria dos estudos enfocou a DA. A demência grave está associada ao aumento da idade, maior morbimortalidade e aumento dos custos de cuidados. É fundamental reconhecer que a demência grave é o período mais longo de progressão, com o paciente vivendo muitos anos nesta fase. É a fase mais heterogênea do processo, com diferentes habilidades e expectativa de vida. Esta diretriz de prática concentra-se na demência grave para melhorar o manejo e o cuidado nessa fase da demência. Como um longo período no continuum da demência, as abordagens não farmacológicas e farmacológicas devem ser consideradas. Intervenções multidisciplinares (fisioterapia, fonoaudiologia, nutrição, enfermagem, entre outras) são essenciais, além de educacionais e de apoio aos cuidadores.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ivan Aprahamian
- Faculdade de Medicina de Jundiaí, Brasil; University of Groningen, The Netherlands; Universidade de São Paulo, Brasil
| | | | | | | | | | - Breno José Alencar Pires Barbosa
- Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil; Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Brasil; Instituto de Medicina Integral Prof. Fernando Figueira, Brasil
| | - Lucas Porcello Schilling
- Pontifícia Universidade do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil; Pontifícia Universidade do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil; Pontifícia Universidade do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil
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Dentoni G, Castro-Aldrete L, Naia L, Ankarcrona M. The Potential of Small Molecules to Modulate the Mitochondria–Endoplasmic Reticulum Interplay in Alzheimer’s Disease. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:920228. [PMID: 36092728 PMCID: PMC9459385 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.920228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease affecting a growing number of elderly individuals. No disease-modifying drugs have yet been identified despite over 30 years of research on the topic, showing the need for further research on this multifactorial disease. In addition to the accumulation of amyloid β-peptide (Aβ) and hyperphosphorylated tau (p-tau), several other alterations have been associated with AD such as calcium (Ca2+) signaling, glucose-, fatty acid-, cholesterol-, and phospholipid metabolism, inflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Interestingly, all these processes have been associated with the mitochondria–endoplasmic reticulum (ER) contact site (MERCS) signaling hub. We and others have hypothesized that the dysregulated MERCS function may be one of the main pathogenic pathways driving AD pathology. Due to the variety of biological processes overseen at the MERCS, we believe that they constitute unique therapeutic targets to boost the neuronal function and recover neuronal homeostasis. Thus, developing molecules with the capacity to correct and/or modulate the MERCS interplay can unleash unique therapeutic opportunities for AD. The potential pharmacological intervention using MERCS modulators in different models of AD is currently under investigation. Here, we survey small molecules with the potential to modulate MERCS structures and functions and restore neuronal homeostasis in AD. We will focus on recently reported examples and provide an overview of the current challenges and future perspectives to develop MERCS modulators in the context of translational research.
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21
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Ward K, Citrome L. AXS-05: an investigational treatment for Alzheimer's disease-associated agitation. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2022; 31:773-780. [PMID: 35763451 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2022.2096006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Agitation is common in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Although nonpharmacologic de-escalation strategies are recommend as first-line treatment, medication is often needed to treat agitation. Currently, there are no FDA-approved medications for this indication. Psychotropics used to treat agitation include antipsychotics, which are notable for their efficacy but also their potential to cause serious side effects. AXS-05, a combination of dextromethorphan and bupropion, is currently being investigated for this indication. AREAS COVERED This review will discuss the pharmacology of AXS-05 and available clinical trial results from completed Phase I and Phase II/III studies assessing the potential for this compound to treat agitation in patients with AD. Ongoing research investigating AXS-05 for this indication will also be highlighted. Resources used for this review include PubMed, Embase, clinicaltrials.gov, and literature available on the manufacturer's website. EXPERT OPINION Early released clinical trial data indicate that AXS-05 may be a useful option to treat agitation in patients with AD, and that it appears to be generally well tolerated. AXS-05 may be especially helpful for patients with comorbid depression, when considering available data from separate phase III studies assessing the efficacy and safety of this compound in the treatment of depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Ward
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, University of Michigan College of Pharmacy, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Leslie Citrome
- Clinical Professor of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
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22
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Grimmer T. [Therapy Developments in Alzheimer's Disease]. FORTSCHRITTE DER NEUROLOGIE-PSYCHIATRIE 2022; 90:352-360. [PMID: 35588740 DOI: 10.1055/a-1802-4837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The development of new therapies to treat Alzheimer's disease is a focus of global drug discovery. Research is being conducted into more potent therapies for symptomatic treatment, particularly for behavioral disturbances, but also into drugs that intervene in the pathophysiology of the disease, with the aim of halting or at least slowing the progression of the disease. To this end, the focus of identifying people with Alzheimer's disease is shifting to stages of pre-dementia such as that of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), almost synonymous with prodromal AD, or even to asymptomatic stages. Currently, passive immunization using monoclonal antibodies against Aβ42 has shown the most encouraging results. However, it has not been possible to demonstrate statistically significant differences on the primary target parameters in multiple completed pivotal trials. The anti-amyloid antibody aducanumab received conditional preliminary approval in the U.S. based on amyloid reduction; approval for its use in Europe is an ongoing process. Current pharmacological treatments of Alzheimer's disease offer limited symptomatic benefit. No drugs to delay progression of the disease is yet on the market in Germany. Therefore, it is recommended that patients, especially those in pre-dementia stages or at the onset of Alzheimer's disease, be encouraged to participate in clinical trials in order to help develop new drugs that are more effective in the treatment of this disease and that can then benefit many more patients in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timo Grimmer
- Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar der Technischen Universität München, München, Germany
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23
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Mendez MF. Managing the Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia. Curr Treat Options Neurol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11940-022-00715-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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25
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Nagata T, Shinagawa S, Nakajima S, Noda Y, Mimura M. Pharmacotherapeutic combinations for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2022; 23:727-737. [PMID: 35230200 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2022.2042514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, and four medications are currently available as symptomatic therapies: three cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEI) and memantine. In June 2021, aducanumab was approved in the United States under an accelerated approval pathway as the first novel putative disease-modifying therapy (p-DMT) targeting the β-amyloid (Aβ) cascade in the brain. The combination of several monotherapies to address the multifactorial pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases is an anticipated next step. AREAS COVERED The cholinergic hypothesis and the amyloid cascade hypothesis have been proposed as explanations for the pathogenesis of AD. Given the limited effectiveness of monotherapies based on these hypotheses, approaches using combination therapy are attempting to address the complexity of AD pathogenesis, including putative causative proteins-related neurodegeneration, neurotransmitters, and neuroinflammation, in a comprehensive manner. EXPERT OPINION The efficacy of an initial or add-on combination approach to counteracting neurodegenerative processes and functional deterioration has been investigated. The combination of symptomatic therapies with approved anti-dementia medicines (one ChEI and memantine) has been found to be functionally effective for a moderately severe disease stage. Furthermore, combination strategies involving p-DMTs, symptomatic therapies, and neuro-regeneration may be useful in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoyuki Nagata
- Department of Psychiatry, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Psychiatry, Airanomori Hospital, Kagoshima, Japan
| | | | - Shinichiro Nakajima
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Noda
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaru Mimura
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Bogár F, Fülöp L, Penke B. Novel Therapeutic Target for Prevention of Neurodegenerative Diseases: Modulation of Neuroinflammation with Sig-1R Ligands. Biomolecules 2022; 12:363. [PMID: 35327555 PMCID: PMC8945408 DOI: 10.3390/biom12030363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are characterized by progressive deterioration of the structure and function of cells and their networks in the nervous system. There are currently no drugs or other treatments that can stop the progression of NDDs. NDDs have many similarities and common pathways, e.g., formation of misfolded amyloid proteins, intra- and extracellular amyloid deposits, and chronic inflammation. Initially, the inflammation process has a cytoprotective function; however, an elevated and prolonged immune response has damaging effects and causes cell death. Neuroinflammation has been a target of drug development for treating and curing NDDs. Treatment of different NDDs with non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) has failed or has given inconsistent results. The use of NSAIDs in diagnosed Alzheimer's disease is currently not recommended. Sigma-1 receptor (Sig-1R) is a novel target for NDD drug development. Sig-1R plays a key role in cellular stress signaling, and it regulates endoplasmic reticulum stress and unfolded protein response. Activation of Sig-1R provides neuroprotection in cell cultures and animal studies. Clinical trials demonstrated that several Sig-1R agonists (pridopidine, ANAVEX3-71, fluvoxamine, dextrometorphan) and their combinations have a neuroprotective effect and slow down the progression of distinct NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferenc Bogár
- MTA-SZTE Biomimetic Systems Research Group, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Dóm Square 8, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary;
- Department of Medical Chemistry, University of Szeged, Dóm Square 8, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary;
| | - Lívia Fülöp
- Department of Medical Chemistry, University of Szeged, Dóm Square 8, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary;
| | - Botond Penke
- Department of Medical Chemistry, University of Szeged, Dóm Square 8, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary;
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Kazi SE, Anwar A. Pseudobulbar Affect Presenting as Aggressive Behavior. Cureus 2022; 14:e21978. [PMID: 35282555 PMCID: PMC8906197 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.21978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Pseudobulbar affect (PBA) is an affective disorder of emotional expression characterized by frequent uncontrollable outbursts of laughing or crying. It is usually associated with stroke, traumatic brain injury, and other neurological conditions. This disorder can present a challenge to clinicians to distinguish this from mood disorders or to diagnose this disorder in the context of underlying mood disorders. In addition, the delay in the diagnosis can impact patients' quality of life. We describe a 48-year-old man who presented with frequent episodes of sudden, frequent, uncontrollable laughing two years after his recurrent stroke. The patient initially had his first stroke about three years ago and had a recurrent stroke eight months after his first stroke. A few days after getting discharged after his second stroke, the patient was admitted to the psychiatric unit after his family members reported aggressive behavior. The patient also reported symptoms of depression and was discharged on escitalopram for mood and divalproex for his aggressive behavior. Unfortunately, the patient was not compliant with these medications with no resolution of his symptoms. The patient was then treated with dextromethorphan-quinidine, escitalopram, and divalproex, resulting in significant improvement in his mood and aggressive behavior with a resolution of uncontrollable laughing spells. Clinicians are encouraged to inquire about symptoms of pseudobulbar affect in the context of stroke or other neurological disorders. Appropriate management of this condition can help improve patients' symptoms and positively affect their wellbeing.
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Shah S, Dooms MM, Amaral-Garcia S, Igoillo-Esteve M. Current Drug Repurposing Strategies for Rare Neurodegenerative Disorders. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:768023. [PMID: 34992533 PMCID: PMC8724568 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.768023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Rare diseases are life-threatening or chronically debilitating low-prevalent disorders caused by pathogenic mutations or particular environmental insults. Due to their high complexity and low frequency, important gaps still exist in their prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Since new drug discovery is a very costly and time-consuming process, leading pharmaceutical companies show relatively low interest in orphan drug research and development due to the high cost of investments compared to the low market return of the product. Drug repurposing–based approaches appear then as cost- and time-saving strategies for the development of therapeutic opportunities for rare diseases. In this article, we discuss the scientific, regulatory, and economic aspects of the development of repurposed drugs for the treatment of rare neurodegenerative disorders with a particular focus on Huntington’s disease, Friedreich’s ataxia, Wolfram syndrome, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The role of academia, pharmaceutical companies, patient associations, and foundations in the identification of candidate compounds and their preclinical and clinical evaluation will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sweta Shah
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
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Chen CY, Chung CH, Chien WC, Chen HC. The Association Between Dextromethorphan Use and the Risk of Dementia. Am J Alzheimers Dis Other Demen 2022; 37:15333175221124952. [PMID: 36113413 PMCID: PMC10581109 DOI: 10.1177/15333175221124952] [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] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Dementia is one of neurodegenerative disease without preventive medicine currently. Dextromethorphan (DXM) has been reported to reduce neuronal damage and neurodegeneration in animal and human models. The effect of DXM on the dementia has not been fully examined. We examined the medical records over 40 years old in Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database between 2000 and 2015 to establish matched cohorts. We used a Cox regression hazard model to identify risk factors of dementia during 16 years of follow-up, and the results indicate that a significantly lower percentage of subjects with DXM use (P < .001) developed dementia compared with those without DXM use (11.38%, 4541/39 895 vs 18.66%, 29 785/159 580). After adjustment for age and other variables [adjusted hazard ratio: .567 (95% confidence interval: .413-.678, P < .001)], this study also demonstrated that DXM use appeared to reduce the risk of developing dementia. DXM use may potentially provide a protective effect against dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Yuan Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, National Defense Medical Center, Tri-Service General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Hsiang Chung
- School of Public Health, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, National Defense Medical Center, Tri-Service General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wu-Chien Chien
- School of Public Health, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, National Defense Medical Center, Tri-Service General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Chien Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, National Defense Medical Center, Tri-Service General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Bhoopatiraju S, Grossberg G. Emerging Perspectives in the Management of Agitation in Alzheimer's Disease and Patients with Dementia. Neurology 2022. [DOI: 10.17925/usn.2022.18.1.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
While Alzheimer's disease, the most common cause of dementia, is perhaps best characterized by cognitive decline, more than 90% of patients exhibit behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia. Agitation in patients with dementia is often difficult to manage, and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in patients and a heightened caregiver burden. Thus, effective management of dementia-related agitation (DRA) is vital. Care should first be taken to consider and address causes of agitation and aggression, after which non-pharmacological interventions should be employed. If non-pharmacological measures are unsuccessful in reducing DRA then medications should be considered, although none are approved by the Food and Drug Administration for this indication. Electroconvulsive therapy may be a promising option for patients with treatment-refractory DRA, although more studies are needed. While there are several drugs in the pipeline for DRA treatment, results from robust randomized clinical trials are necessary before they can be administered to patients. Thus, clinicians should employ current strategies to manage DRA to ensure holistic care for patients with Alzheimer's disease.
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Heilman KM, Nadeau SE. Emotional and Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Alzheimer's Disease. Neurotherapeutics 2022; 19:99-116. [PMID: 35013934 PMCID: PMC9130428 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-021-01172-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is associated with impairments in emotional communication including comprehension and production of facial emotional expressions, comprehension of affective prosody, and alexithymia. It is also associated with disorders of emotional experience including mood disorders (depression and anxiety), agitation/aggression, and psychosis. Agitation/aggression and psychosis are particularly disruptive, are associated with earlier institutionalization, and pose a major challenge to institutional management. Treatment of disorders of emotional experience has been primarily pharmacologic (reviewed here in detail) and has relied heavily on antipsychotic medications despite the small effect sizes demonstrated in a large number of randomized controlled trials and the prevalence of serious side effects associated with these drugs. Recent studies suggest that treatment with pimavanserin, an antipsychotic without activity at dopamine receptors, may represent an important advance for treatment of psychotic manifestations, even as the drug appears to pose significant risk. Dextromethorphan/quinidine may represent an important advance in the treatment of agitation/aggression. There is also compelling evidence that sleep disorders, which are common among patients with Alzheimer's disease and are readily treatable, may potentiate psychotic manifestations and agitation/aggression, but further studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth M Heilman
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, 1601 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL, 32608-1197, USA
- The Brain Rehabilitation Research Center, Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, 1601 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL, 32608-1197, USA
- Malcom Randall VA Medical Center and the Department of Neurology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Stephen E Nadeau
- Research Service, Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, 1601 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL, 32608-1197, USA.
- The Brain Rehabilitation Research Center, Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, 1601 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL, 32608-1197, USA.
- Malcom Randall VA Medical Center and the Department of Neurology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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32
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Banerjee S, High J, Stirling S, Shepstone L, Swart AM, Telling T, Henderson C, Ballard C, Bentham P, Burns A, Farina N, Fox C, Francis P, Howard R, Knapp M, Leroi I, Livingston G, Nilforooshan R, Nurock S, O'Brien J, Price A, Thomas AJ, Tabet N. Study of mirtazapine for agitated behaviours in dementia (SYMBAD): a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Lancet 2021; 398:1487-1497. [PMID: 34688369 PMCID: PMC8546216 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(21)01210-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Agitation is common in people with dementia and negatively affects the quality of life of both people with dementia and carers. Non-drug patient-centred care is the first-line treatment, but there is a need for other treatment when this care is not effective. Current evidence is sparse on safer and effective alternatives to antipsychotics. We assessed the efficacy and safety of mirtazapine, an antidepressant prescribed for agitation in dementia. METHODS This parallel-group, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial-the Study of Mirtazapine for Agitated Behaviours in Dementia trial (SYMBAD)-was done in 26 UK centres. Participants had probable or possible Alzheimer's disease, agitation unresponsive to non-drug treatment, and a Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI) score of 45 or more. They were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive either mirtazapine (titrated to 45 mg) or placebo. The primary outcome was reduction in CMAI score at 12 weeks. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03031184, and ISRCTN17411897. FINDINGS Between Jan 26, 2017, and March 6, 2020, 204 participants were recruited and randomised. Mean CMAI scores at 12 weeks were not significantly different between participants receiving mirtazapine and participants receiving placebo (adjusted mean difference -1·74, 95% CI -7·17 to 3·69; p=0·53). The number of controls with adverse events (65 [64%] of 102 controls) was similar to that in the mirtazapine group (67 [66%] of 102 participants receiving mirtazapine). However, there were more deaths in the mirtazapine group (n=7) by week 16 than in the control group (n=1), with post-hoc analysis suggesting this difference was of marginal statistical significance (p=0·065). INTERPRETATION This trial found no benefit of mirtazapine compared with placebo, and we observed a potentially higher mortality with use of mirtazapine. The data from this study do not support using mirtazapine as a treatment for agitation in dementia. FUNDING UK National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment Programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sube Banerjee
- Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK.
| | - Juliet High
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Susan Stirling
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Lee Shepstone
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Ann Marie Swart
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Tanya Telling
- Joint Clinical Research Office, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Catherine Henderson
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Clive Ballard
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Peter Bentham
- Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health Foundation NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Nicolas Farina
- Centre for Dementia Studies, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Chris Fox
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Paul Francis
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Robert Howard
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Martin Knapp
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Iracema Leroi
- Department of Psychiatry, Global Brain Health Institute, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Gill Livingston
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Shirley Nurock
- Former Carer, Alzheimer's Society Research Network, University of Cambridge School of Medicine, Cambridge, UK
| | - John O'Brien
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge School of Medicine, Cambridge, UK
| | - Annabel Price
- Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Alan J Thomas
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Naji Tabet
- Centre for Dementia Studies, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
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Lanctôt KL, Herrmann N. Mirtazapine for agitation in dementia: moving forward. Lancet 2021; 398:1462-1463. [PMID: 34688357 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(21)01421-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Krista L Lanctôt
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto M4N 3M5, ON, Canada.
| | - Nathan Herrmann
- Merchavim Medical Center for Brain and Mental Health, Be'er Yaacov, Israel
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Scuteri D, Corasaniti MT, Tonin P, Nicotera P, Bagetta G. New trends in pharmacological control of neuropsychiatric symptoms of dementia. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2021; 61:69-76. [PMID: 34634603 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2021.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Abnormal neuronal and synaptic plasticity occurs in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and depression. The latter, particularly late-life, has been recognized as fundamental in the identification of at-risk prodromal stages of AD. The lack of disease-modifying drugs and the off-label use of antipsychotics and antidepressants for neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPSs) have caused a season of therapeutic inappropriateness. To date, the wealth of clinical trials investigating drugs, diverse for structure and mechanism of action, has failed to provide a cure for all the spectrums of NPSs. Psychedelics in microdosing afford promotion of neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity and, recently, have been considered a revolution for the management of depression endowed with faster action and an improved side effect profile than antidepressants. In the current scenario, therefore, the rapid-acting antidepressant esketamine could represent the first-in-class for treatment of NPSs, and this deserves to be demonstrated with an open-label clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damiana Scuteri
- Pharmacotechnology Documentation and Transfer Unit, Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; Regional Center for Serious Brain Injuries, S. Anna Institute, Crotone, Italy
| | | | - Paolo Tonin
- Regional Center for Serious Brain Injuries, S. Anna Institute, Crotone, Italy
| | | | - Giacinto Bagetta
- Pharmacotechnology Documentation and Transfer Unit, Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy.
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Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that currently has no cure. The aged population is growing globally, creating an urgent need for more promising therapies for this debilitating disease. Much effort has been made in recent decades, and the field is highly dynamic, with numerous trials. The main focus of these trials includes disease modification and symptomatic treatment. Some have shown beneficial outcomes, while others have shown no significant benefits. Here, we cover the outcome of recently published AD clinical trials, as well as the mechanism of action of these therapeutical agents, to re-think drug development strategies and directions for future studies.
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Gerring ZF, Gamazon ER, White A, Derks EM. Integrative Network-Based Analysis Reveals Gene Networks and Novel Drug Repositioning Candidates for Alzheimer Disease. NEUROLOGY-GENETICS 2021; 7:e622. [PMID: 34532569 PMCID: PMC8441674 DOI: 10.1212/nxg.0000000000000622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives To integrate genome-wide association study data with tissue-specific gene expression information to identify coexpression networks, biological pathways, and drug repositioning candidates for Alzheimer disease. Methods We integrated genome-wide association summary statistics for Alzheimer disease with tissue-specific gene coexpression networks from brain tissue samples in the Genotype-Tissue Expression study. We identified gene coexpression networks enriched with genetic signals for Alzheimer disease and characterized the associated networks using biological pathway analysis. The disease-implicated modules were subsequently used as a molecular substrate for a computational drug repositioning analysis, in which we (1) imputed genetically regulated gene expression within Alzheimer disease implicated modules; (2) integrated the imputed gene expression levels with drug-gene signatures from the connectivity map to identify compounds that normalize dysregulated gene expression underlying Alzheimer disease; and (3) prioritized drug compounds and mechanisms of action based on the extent to which they normalize dysregulated expression signatures. Results Genetic factors for Alzheimer disease are enriched in brain gene coexpression networks involved in the immune response. Computational drug repositioning analyses of expression changes within the disease-associated networks retrieved known Alzheimer disease drugs (e.g., memantine) as well as biologically meaningful drug categories (e.g., glutamate receptor antagonists). Discussion Our results improve the biological interpretation of genetic data for Alzheimer disease and provide a list of potential antidementia drug repositioning candidates for which the efficacy should be investigated in functional validation studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary F Gerring
- Translational Neurogenomics Laboratory (Z.F.G., E.M.D.), QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia; Division of Genetic Medicine (E.R.G.), Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN; and Cellular and Molecular Neurodegeneration (A.W.), QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Eric R Gamazon
- Translational Neurogenomics Laboratory (Z.F.G., E.M.D.), QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia; Division of Genetic Medicine (E.R.G.), Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN; and Cellular and Molecular Neurodegeneration (A.W.), QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Anthony White
- Translational Neurogenomics Laboratory (Z.F.G., E.M.D.), QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia; Division of Genetic Medicine (E.R.G.), Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN; and Cellular and Molecular Neurodegeneration (A.W.), QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Eske M Derks
- Translational Neurogenomics Laboratory (Z.F.G., E.M.D.), QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia; Division of Genetic Medicine (E.R.G.), Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN; and Cellular and Molecular Neurodegeneration (A.W.), QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Zarini-Gakiye E, Amini J, Sanadgol N, Vaezi G, Parivar K. Recent Updates in the Alzheimer's Disease Etiopathology and Possible Treatment Approaches: A Narrative Review of Current Clinical Trials. Curr Mol Pharmacol 2021; 13:273-294. [PMID: 32321414 DOI: 10.2174/1874467213666200422090135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most frequent subtype of incurable neurodegenerative dementias and its etiopathology is still not clearly elucidated. OBJECTIVE Outline the ongoing clinical trials (CTs) in the field of AD, in order to find novel master regulators. METHODS We strictly reviewed all scientific reports from Clinicaltrials.gov and PubMed databases from January 2010 to January 2019. The search terms were "Alzheimer's disease" or "dementia" and "medicine" or "drug" or "treatment" and "clinical trials" and "interventions". Manuscripts that met the objective of this study were included for further evaluations. RESULTS Drug candidates have been categorized into two main groups including antibodies, peptides or hormones (such as Ponezumab, Interferon β-1a, Solanezumab, Filgrastim, Levemir, Apidra, and Estrogen), and naturally-derived ingredients or small molecules (such as Paracetamol, Ginkgo, Escitalopram, Simvastatin, Cilostazo, and Ritalin-SR). The majority of natural candidates acted as anti-inflammatory or/and anti-oxidant and antibodies exert their actions via increasing amyloid-beta (Aβ) clearance or decreasing Tau aggregation. Among small molecules, most of them that are present in the last phases act as specific antagonists (Suvorexant, Idalopirdine, Intepirdine, Trazodone, Carvedilol, and Risperidone) or agonists (Dextromethorphan, Resveratrol, Brexpiprazole) and frequently ameliorate cognitive dysfunctions. CONCLUSION The presences of a small number of candidates in the last phase suggest that a large number of candidates have had an undesirable side effect or were unable to pass essential eligibility for future phases. Among successful treatment approaches, clearance of Aβ, recovery of cognitive deficits, and control of acute neuroinflammation are widely chosen. It is predicted that some FDA-approved drugs, such as Paracetamol, Risperidone, Escitalopram, Simvastatin, Cilostazoand, and Ritalin-SR, could also be used in off-label ways for AD. This review improves our ability to recognize novel treatments for AD and suggests approaches for the clinical trial design for this devastating disease in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elahe Zarini-Gakiye
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Javad Amini
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Zabol, Zabol, Iran
| | - Nima Sanadgol
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Zabol, Zabol, Iran,Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Gholamhassan Vaezi
- Department of Biology, Damghan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Damghan, Iran
| | - Kazem Parivar
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
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Pinho J, Quintas-Neves M, Dogan I, Reetz K, Reich A, Costa AS. Incident stroke in patients with Alzheimer's disease: systematic review and meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2021; 11:16385. [PMID: 34385535 PMCID: PMC8361108 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-95821-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular mechanisms are increasingly recognized in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD), but less is known about the occurrence of stroke in AD patients. We aimed to quantify the risk of stroke in patients with AD and compare the incidence rates (IR) of stroke in individuals without AD. Systematic search of Embase and MEDLINE between 1970 and 2020. Inclusion criteria: reports with ≥ 50 patients with non-familial AD, which reported the occurrence of stroke (all types) and/or ischemic stroke and/or intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) during follow-up. Meta-analyses of pooled data using random-effects model were performed. IR were calculated for each study. Incidence rate ratios (IRR) were calculated for studies presenting a control-group without AD. Among 5109 retrieved studies, 29 (0.6%) fulfilled the inclusion criteria, reporting a total of 61,824 AD patients. In AD patients the IR were 15.4/1000 person-years for stroke (all types), 13.0/1000 person-years for ischemic stroke and 3.4/1000 person-years for ICH. When compared to controls without AD, incidence rate for ICH in AD patients was significantly higher (IRR = 1.67, 95%CI 1.43-1.96), but similar for ischemic stroke. Incident stroke is not a rare event in AD population. AD is associated with an increased risk of intracerebral hemorrhage which warrants further clarification.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Pinho
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsst. 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Miguel Quintas-Neves
- Neuroradiology Department, Hospital de Braga, Braga, Portugal.,Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B´s-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Imis Dogan
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsst. 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany.,JARA Institute Molecular Neuroscience and Neuroimaging, Juelich Research Center GmbH and RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Kathrin Reetz
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsst. 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany.,JARA Institute Molecular Neuroscience and Neuroimaging, Juelich Research Center GmbH and RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Arno Reich
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsst. 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Ana Sofia Costa
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsst. 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany.,JARA Institute Molecular Neuroscience and Neuroimaging, Juelich Research Center GmbH and RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
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Adams SC, McMillan J, Salline K, Lavery J, Moskowitz CS, Matsoukas K, Chen MMZ, Santa Mina D, Scott JM, Jones LW. Comparing the reporting and conduct quality of exercise and pharmacological randomised controlled trials: a systematic review. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e048218. [PMID: 34380726 PMCID: PMC8359527 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-048218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Evaluate the quality of exercise randomised controlled trial (RCT) reporting and conduct in clinical populations (ie, adults with or at risk of chronic conditions) and compare with matched pharmacological RCTs. DESIGN Systematic review. DATA SOURCES Embase (Elsevier), PubMed (NLM) and CINAHL (EBSCO). STUDY SELECTION RCTs of exercise in clinical populations with matching pharmacological RCTs published in leading clinical, medical and specialist journals with impact factors ≥15. REVIEW METHODS Overall RCT quality was evaluated by two independent reviewers using three research reporting guidelines (ie, Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT; pharmacological RCTs)/CONSORT for non-pharmacological treatments; exercise RCTs), CONSORT-Harms, Template for Intervention Description and Replication) and two risk of bias assessment (research conduct) tools (ie, Cochrane Risk of Bias, Jadad Scale). We compared research reporting and conduct quality within exercise RCTs with matched pharmacological RCTs, and examined factors associated with quality in exercise and pharmacological RCTs, separately. FINDINGS Forty-eight exercise RCTs (11 658 patients; median sample n=138) and 48 matched pharmacological RCTs were evaluated (18 501 patients; median sample n=160). RCTs were conducted primarily in cardiovascular medicine (43%) or oncology (31%). Overall quality score (composite of all research reporting and conduct quality scores; primary endpoint) for exercise RCTs was 58% (median score 46 of 80; IQR: 39-51) compared with 77% (53 of 68; IQR: 47-58) in the matched pharmacological RCTs (p≤0.001). Individual quality scores for trial reporting and conduct were lower in exercise RCTs compared with matched pharmacological RCTs (p≤0.03). Factors associated with higher overall quality scores for exercise RCTs were journal impact factor (≥25), sample size (≥152) and publication year (≥2013). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Research reporting and conduct quality within exercise RCTs is inferior to matched pharmacological RCTs. Suboptimal RCT reporting and conduct impact the fidelity, interpretation, and reproducibility of exercise trials and, ultimately, implementation of exercise in clinical populations. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42018095033.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott C Adams
- Department of Cardiology, Toronto General Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Ted Rogers Cardiotoxicity Prevention Program, Peter Munk Cardiac Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Kinesiology and Physical Education, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Julia McMillan
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Kirsten Salline
- Internal Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jessica Lavery
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Chaya S Moskowitz
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | | | - Maggie M Z Chen
- Kinesiology and Physical Education, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel Santa Mina
- Kinesiology and Physical Education, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Anesthesia and Pain Management, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jessica M Scott
- Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
- Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Lee W Jones
- Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
- Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
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40
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Piechal A, Jakimiuk A, Mirowska-Guzel D. Sigma receptors and neurological disorders. Pharmacol Rep 2021; 73:1582-1594. [PMID: 34350561 PMCID: PMC8641430 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-021-00310-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Sigma receptors were identified relatively recently, and their presence has been confirmed in the central nervous system and peripheral organs. Changes in sigma receptor function or expression may be involved in neurological diseases, and thus sigma receptors represent a potential target for treating central nervous system disorders. Many substances that are ligands for sigma receptors are widely used in therapies for neurological disorders. In the present review, we discuss the roles of sigma receptors, especially in the central nervous system disorders, and related therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Piechal
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Centre for Preclinical Research and Technology CePT, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
- Second Department of Neurology, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Sobieskiego 9, 02-957, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Alicja Jakimiuk
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Centre for Preclinical Research and Technology CePT, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dagmara Mirowska-Guzel
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Centre for Preclinical Research and Technology CePT, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland.
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Emergent and Non-Emergent Agitation in the Older Adult: Evaluation and Management. CURRENT GERIATRICS REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s13670-021-00358-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Tsuchida J, Miyauchi Y, Ando S, Sozu T. A Test for Treatment Effects Based on the Exact Distribution of an Ordinary Least-Square Estimator in Sequential Parallel Comparison Design. Stat Biopharm Res 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/19466315.2021.1924257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Tsuchida
- Department of Information and Computer Technology, Faculty of Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, Katsushika-ku, Japan
| | - Yu Miyauchi
- Department of Management Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, Katsushika-ku, Japan
| | - Shuji Ando
- Department of Information and Computer Technology, Faculty of Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, Katsushika-ku, Japan
| | - Takashi Sozu
- Department of Information and Computer Technology, Faculty of Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, Katsushika-ku, Japan
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Khan Z, Da Silva MV, Nunez K, Kalafatis C, Nowicki S, Walker Z, Testad I, Francis P, Ballard C. Investigating the effects of impairment in non-verbal communication on neuropsychiatric symptoms and quality of life of people living with dementia. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (NEW YORK, N. Y.) 2021; 7:e12172. [PMID: 33969179 PMCID: PMC8088100 DOI: 10.1002/trc2.12172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION People living with dementia in nursing homes have complex needs; impairments in cognition, communication, and daily function; neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS); and poor quality of life (QoL). The current study examines impairments in non-verbal communication as a potential driver of NPS and QoL. METHODS One hundred nursing home residents with dementia were assessed using the Emory Dyssemia Index (EDI), Neuropsychiatric Inventory Nursing Home version (NPI-NH), Quality of Life in Alzheimer's Disease (QoL-AD) at baseline, 12-, and 24-week follow-up. RESULTS The quantile regression (0.5) model indicated that impairment of non-verbal communication was independently associated with the severity of NPS (P = .001) and proxy reported QoL (P < .05), levels of agitation (P < .05), and professional caregiver burden (P < .05). DISCUSSION These results highlight a novel potential approach to improve NPS and QoL using retained elements of non-verbal communication, particularly for people with severe dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zunera Khan
- Institute of PsychiatryPsychology and NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | | | | | - Chris Kalafatis
- Institute of PsychiatryPsychology and NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | | | | | - Ingelin Testad
- Centre for Age‐related Medicine ‐ SESAMStavanger University HospitalStavangerNorway
| | - Paul Francis
- Exeter University Medical SchoolUniversity of ExeterExeterUK
| | - Clive Ballard
- Exeter University Medical SchoolUniversity of ExeterExeterUK
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Prasanth MI, Malar DS, Tencomnao T, Brimson JM. The emerging role of the sigma-1 receptor in autophagy: hand-in-hand targets for the treatment of Alzheimer's. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2021; 25:401-414. [PMID: 34110944 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2021.1939681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Autophagy is a cellular catabolic mechanism that helps clear damaged cellular components and is essential for normal cellular and tissue function. The sigma-1 receptor (σ-1R) is a chaperone protein involved in signal transduction, neurite outgrowth, and plasticity, improving memory, and neuroprotection. Recent evidence shows that σ-1R can promote autophagy. Autophagy activation by the σ-1Rs along with other neuroprotective effects makes it an interesting target for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. AF710B, T-817 MA, and ANAVEX2-73 are some of the σ-1R agonists which have shown promising results and have entered clinical trials. These molecules have also been found to induce autophagy and show cytoprotective effects in cellular models. AREAS COVERED This review provides insight into the current understanding of σ-1R functions related to autophagy and their role in alleviating AD. EXPERT OPINION We propose a mechanism through which the activation of σ-1R and autophagy could alter amyloid precursor protein processing to inhibit amyloid-β production by reconstituting cholesterol and gangliosides in the lipid raft to offer neuroprotection against AD. Future AD treatment could involve the combined targeting of the σ-1R and autophagy activation. We suggest that future studies investigate the link between autophagy the σ-1R and AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mani Iyer Prasanth
- Natural Products for Neuroprotection and Anti-ageing Research Unit, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Dicson Sheeja Malar
- Natural Products for Neuroprotection and Anti-ageing Research Unit, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tewin Tencomnao
- Natural Products for Neuroprotection and Anti-ageing Research Unit, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - James Michael Brimson
- Natural Products for Neuroprotection and Anti-ageing Research Unit, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Abstract
Huntington’s disease (HD) is a heritable and fatal neurodegenerative disease characterized by a triad of motor, cognitive and neuropsychiatric symptoms. A common and particularly detrimental neuropsychiatric alteration in HD gene carriers is irritability, which frequently manifests as abrupt and unpredictable outbursts of anger. This symptom increases the burden of HD in multiple ways, such as jeopardizing employment and straining familial or caregiver support. Although irritability in HD is diagnosed by the administration of standardized rating scales and clinical expertise, measurement of severity and progression is complicated by several factors. Currently, individuals with HD who present with irritability may be managed with a variety of psychotropic medications, primarily antidepressants and antipsychotics. While these therapies offer relief to individuals suffering from irritability in HD, they are often not sufficient. Here, we review irritability in the context of HD and emphasize the need for treatments that are better tailored to mitigate this troublesome symptom. An expeditious strategy in pursuit of this goal involves evaluating the efficacy of approved medications that are used to treat similar neuropsychiatric symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas E Karagas
- McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Sciences Center (UTHealth), Houston, TX, USA
| | - Natalia Pessoa Rocha
- The Mitchell Center for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Brain Disorders, McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, Houston, TX, USA.,HDSA Center of Excellence at UTHealth, Houston, TX, USA
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Halder N, Lal G. Cholinergic System and Its Therapeutic Importance in Inflammation and Autoimmunity. Front Immunol 2021; 12:660342. [PMID: 33936095 PMCID: PMC8082108 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.660342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurological and immunological signals constitute an extensive regulatory network in our body that maintains physiology and homeostasis. The cholinergic system plays a significant role in neuroimmune communication, transmitting information regarding the peripheral immune status to the central nervous system (CNS) and vice versa. The cholinergic system includes the neurotransmitter\ molecule, acetylcholine (ACh), cholinergic receptors (AChRs), choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) enzyme, and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme. These molecules are involved in regulating immune response and playing a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis. Most innate and adaptive immune cells respond to neuronal inputs by releasing or expressing these molecules on their surfaces. Dysregulation of this neuroimmune communication may lead to several inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Several agonists, antagonists, and inhibitors have been developed to target the cholinergic system to control inflammation in different tissues. This review discusses how various molecules of the neuronal and non-neuronal cholinergic system (NNCS) interact with the immune cells. What are the agonists and antagonists that alter the cholinergic system, and how are these molecules modulate inflammation and immunity. Understanding the various functions of pharmacological molecules could help in designing better strategies to control inflammation and autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namrita Halder
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity and Tolerance, National Centre for Cell Science, Ganeshkhind, Pune, India
| | - Girdhari Lal
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity and Tolerance, National Centre for Cell Science, Ganeshkhind, Pune, India
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47
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Witkin JM, Cerne R, Newman AH, Izenwasser S, Smith JL, Tortella FC. N-Substituted-3-alkoxy-derivatives of dextromethorphan are functional NMDA receptor antagonists in vivo: Evidence from an NMDA-induced seizure model in rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2021; 203:173154. [PMID: 33609599 PMCID: PMC9659398 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2021.173154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Interest in developing NMDA receptor antagonists with reduced side-effects for neurological and psychiatric disorders has been re-energized by the recent introduction of esketamine into clinical practice for treatment-resistant depression. Structural analogs of dextromethorphan bind with low affinity to the NMDA receptor ion channel, have functional effects in vivo, and generally display a lower propensity for side-effects than that of ketamine and other higher affinity antagonists. As such, the aim of the present study was to determine whether a series of N-substituted-3-alkoxy-substituted dextromethorphan analogs produce their anticonvulsant effects through NMDA receptor blockade. Compounds were studied against NMDA-induced seizures in rats. Compounds were administered intracerebroventricularly in order to mitigate confounds of drug metabolism that arise from systemic administration. Comparison of the anticonvulsant potencies to their affinities for NMDA, σ1, and σ2 binding sites were made in order to evaluate the contribution of these receptors to anticonvulsant efficacy. The potencies to block convulsions were positively associated with their affinities to bind to the NMDA receptor ion channel ([3H]-TCP binding) (r = 0.71, p < 0.05) but not to σ1 receptors ([3H]-SKF 10047 binding) (r = -0.31, p = 0.46) or to σ2 receptors ([3H]-DTG binding) (p = -0.38, p = 0.36). This is the first report demonstrating that these dextromethorphan analogs are functional NMDA receptor antagonists in vivo. Given their potential therapeutic utility and favorable side-effect profiles, such low affinity NMDA receptor antagonists could be considered for further development in neurological (e.g., anticonvulsant) and psychiatric (e.g., antidepressant) disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey M Witkin
- Laboratory of Antiepileptic Drug Discovery, Ascension St. Vincent, Indianapolis, IN, USA; Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
| | - Rok Cerne
- Laboratory of Antiepileptic Drug Discovery, Ascension St. Vincent, Indianapolis, IN, USA; Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia; Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Amy H Newman
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse-Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sari Izenwasser
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jodi L Smith
- Laboratory of Antiepileptic Drug Discovery, Ascension St. Vincent, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Frank C Tortella
- Department of Neuropharmacology and Molecular Biology, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
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Update on Pharmacological Treatment of Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Dementia. CURRENT GERIATRICS REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s13670-021-00356-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Wang L, Du L, Xiong X, Lin Y, Zhu J, Yao Z, Wang S, Guo Y, Chen Y, Geary K, Pan Y, Zhou F, Gao S, Zhang D, Yeung SCJ, Zhang H. Repurposing dextromethorphan and metformin for treating nicotine-induced cancer by directly targeting CHRNA7 to inhibit JAK2/STAT3/SOX2 signaling. Oncogene 2021; 40:1974-1987. [PMID: 33603170 PMCID: PMC7979537 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-021-01682-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Smoking is one of the most impactful lifestyle-related risk factors in many cancer types including esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). As the major component of tobacco and e-cigarettes, nicotine is not only responsible for addiction to smoking but also a carcinogen. Here we report that nicotine enhances ESCC cancer malignancy and tumor-initiating capacity by interacting with cholinergic receptor nicotinic alpha 7 subunit (CHRNA7) and subsequently activating the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. We found that aberrant CHRNA7 expression can serve as an independent prognostic factor for ESCC patients. In multiple ESCC mouse models, dextromethorphan and metformin synergistically repressed nicotine-enhanced cancer-initiating cells (CIC) properties and inhibited ESCC progression. Mechanistically, dextromethorphan non-competitively inhibited nicotine binding to CHRNA7 while metformin downregulated CHRNA7 expression by antagonizing nicotine-induced promoter DNA hypomethylation of CHRNA7. Since dextromethorphan and metformin are two safe FDA-approved drugs with minimal undesirable side-effects, the combination of these drugs has a high potential as either a preventive and/or a therapeutic strategy against nicotine-promoted ESCC and perhaps other nicotine-sensitive cancer types as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, and Institute of Precision Cancer Medicine and Pathology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Liang Du
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, and Institute of Precision Cancer Medicine and Pathology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells & Systems, Section Molecular Cell Biology and Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Xiao Xiong
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, and Institute of Precision Cancer Medicine and Pathology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yusheng Lin
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, and Institute of Precision Cancer Medicine and Pathology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Hematology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jianlin Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, and Institute of Precision Cancer Medicine and Pathology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhimeng Yao
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, and Institute of Precision Cancer Medicine and Pathology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shuhong Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, and Institute of Precision Cancer Medicine and Pathology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yi Guo
- Endoscopy Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuping Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Kyla Geary
- Department of Bio-Medical Sciences, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, 4170 City Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, 19131, USA
| | - Yunlong Pan
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, and Institute of Precision Cancer Medicine and Pathology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Fuyou Zhou
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Anyang, 455001, Henan, China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Anyang Tumor Hospital, Anyang, 455001, Henan, China
| | - Shegan Gao
- College of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Henan Key Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Luoyang, 471003, China
| | - Dianzheng Zhang
- Department of Bio-Medical Sciences, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, 4170 City Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, 19131, USA
| | - Sai-Ching Jim Yeung
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, and Institute of Precision Cancer Medicine and Pathology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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Khoury R, Marx C, Mirgati S, Velury D, Chakkamparambil B, Grossberg GT. AVP-786 as a promising treatment option for Alzheimer's Disease including agitation. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2021; 22:783-795. [PMID: 33615952 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2021.1882995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To date, there is no FDA-approved treatment for agitation in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Medications currently used off-label have modest clinical efficacy and serious side effects. AREAS COVERED The authors review the pharmacology, mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, safety and tolerability data of AVP-786, for the treatment of agitation in AD. EXPERT OPINION AVP-786, the deuterated form of dextromethorphan/quinidine (AVP-923) which is an approved treatment for Pseudo-Bulbar Affect, emerges as a promising and safe treatment for agitation in AD. Deuteration is an innovative technology that accelerates drug development by conducting faster and less costly clinical trials. No phase II trial was conducted with AVP-786 for the treatment of agitation in AD; the decision to expedite the development of this drug was based on a successful phase II study with AVP-923. Phase III trials with AVP-786 (TRIAD-1 and TRIAD-2) showed mixed findings probably due to the difference in study design. Future phase III studies should use innovative study designs such as the Sequential Parallel Comparison Design to mitigate high placebo response, and the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory for agitation assessment. They should also include positron emission tomography studies to assess occupancy of various receptors in the brain after AVP-786 is administered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Khoury
- Department of Psychiatry and Clinical Psychology, Saint Georges Hospital University Medical Center University of Balamand, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Charlotte Marx
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Missouri, USA
| | - Sidney Mirgati
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Missouri, USA
| | - Divya Velury
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Missouri, USA
| | - Binu Chakkamparambil
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Missouri, USA
| | - George T Grossberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Missouri, USA
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