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Zivadinov R, Pei J, Clayton D, Goldman DE, Winger RC, Cabatingan MS, Dwyer MG, Bergsland N. Evolution of atrophied T2 lesion volume in primary-progressive multiple sclerosis: results from the phase 3 ORATORIO study. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2024; 95:536-543. [PMID: 38071574 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2023-332573] [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: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrophied T2-lesion volume (aT2-LV) is an exploratory imaging marker in multiple sclerosis (MS) reflecting the volume of lesions subsumed into cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of ocrelizumab (OCR) versus placebo (PBO) over 120 weeks on the accumulation of aT2-LV in a double-blind placebo-controlled (DBP) phase 3, primary-progressive (PP) MS study (ORATORIO; NCT01194570). METHODS This post-hoc, MRI-blinded analysis evaluated 732 PPMS randomised to OCR (488) or PBO (244). Atrophied T2-LV was calculated by overlaying baseline T2-lesion masks on follow-up CSF maps. Clinical data from DBP and open-label extension (OLE) periods were available. Treatment effect was evaluated by a mixed-effect model with repeated measures, while logistic regression explored the association of aT2-LV at week 120 and clinical outcomes in the OLE period. RESULTS OCR treatment significantly reduced accumulation of aT2-LV compared with PBO (319.4 mm3 vs 366.1 mm3, p=0.015) at 120 weeks. OCR showed superiority over PBO in reducing aT2-LV in patients who developed confirmed disability progression (CDP) during the DBP period at 12 (CDP12) and 24 (CDP24) weeks for the composite of Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Nine-Hole Peg Test and Timed 25-Foot Walk test. Accumulation of aT2-LV at week 120 was related to CDP12-EDSS (p=0.018) and CDP24-EDSS (p=0.022) in the OLE for the patients who were treated by PBO in the DBP only. CONCLUSIONS OCR showed a significant effect of reducing the accumulation of aT2-LV in PPMS in the DBP period and was related to CDP-EDSS in OLE only in the PBO arm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Zivadinov
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
- Center for Biomedical Imaging at Clinical Translational Science Institute, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Michael G Dwyer
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
- Center for Biomedical Imaging at Clinical Translational Science Institute, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Niels Bergsland
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
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Jakimovski D, Qureshi F, Ramanathan M, Jalaleddini K, Ghoreyshi A, Dwyer MG, Bergsland N, Weinstock-Guttman B, Zivadinov R. Glial cell injury and atrophied lesion volume as measures of chronic multiple sclerosis inflammation. J Neurol Sci 2024; 461:123055. [PMID: 38761669 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2024.123055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrophied lesion volume (aLV), a proposed biomarker of disability progression in multiple sclerosis (MS) and transition into progressive MS (PMS), depicts chronic periventricular white matter (WM) pathology. Meningeal infiltrates, imaged as leptomeningeal contrast enhancement (LMCE), are linked with greater cortical pathology. OBJECTIVES To determine the relationship between serum-derived proteomic data with the development of aLV and LMCE in a heterogeneous group of people with MS (pwMS). METHODS Proteomic and MRI data for 202 pwMS (148 clinically isolated syndrome /relapsing-remitting MS and 54 progressive MS (PMS)) were acquired at baseline and at 5.4-year follow-up. The concentrations of 21 proteins related to multiple MS pathophysiology pathways were derived using a custom-developed Proximity Extension Assay on the Olink™ platform. The accrual of aLV was determined as the volume of baseline T2-weighted lesions that were replaced by cerebrospinal fluid over the follow-up. Regression models and age-adjusted analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) were used. RESULTS Older age (standardized beta = 0.176, p = 0.022), higher glial fibrillary acidic protein (standardized beta = 0.312, p = 0.001), and lower myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein levels (standardized beta = -0.271, p = 0.002) were associated with accrual of aLV over follow-up. This relationship was driven by the pwPMS population. The presence of LMCE at the follow-up visit was not predicted by any baseline proteomic biomarker nor cross-sectionally associated with any protein concentration. CONCLUSION Proteomic markers of glial activation are associated with chronic lesional WM pathology (measured as aLV) and may be specific to the progressive MS phenotype. LMCE presence in MS does not appear to relate to proteomic measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dejan Jakimovski
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA.
| | | | - Murali Ramanathan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Michael G Dwyer
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Niels Bergsland
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Bianca Weinstock-Guttman
- Department of Neurology, Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Robert Zivadinov
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA; Center for Biomedical Imaging at the Clinical Translational Science Institute, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
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Lomer NB, Asalemi KA, Saberi A, Sarlak K. Predictors of multiple sclerosis progression: A systematic review of conventional magnetic resonance imaging studies. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300415. [PMID: 38626023 PMCID: PMC11020451 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder that affects the central nervous system (CNS) and results in progressive clinical disability and cognitive decline. Currently, there are no specific imaging parameters available for the prediction of longitudinal disability in MS patients. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has linked imaging anomalies to clinical and cognitive deficits in MS. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of MRI in predicting disability, clinical progression, and cognitive decline in MS. METHODS In this study, according to PRISMA guidelines, we comprehensively searched the Web of Science, PubMed, and Embase databases to identify pertinent articles that employed conventional MRI in the context of Relapsing-Remitting and progressive forms of MS. Following a rigorous screening process, studies that met the predefined inclusion criteria were selected for data extraction and evaluated for potential sources of bias. RESULTS A total of 3028 records were retrieved from database searching. After a rigorous screening, 53 records met the criteria and were included in this study. Lesions and alterations in CNS structures like white matter, gray matter, corpus callosum, thalamus, and spinal cord, may be used to anticipate disability progression. Several prognostic factors associated with the progression of MS, including presence of cortical lesions, changes in gray matter volume, whole brain atrophy, the corpus callosum index, alterations in thalamic volume, and lesions or alterations in cross-sectional area of the spinal cord. For cognitive impairment in MS patients, reliable predictors include cortical gray matter volume, brain atrophy, lesion characteristics (T2-lesion load, temporal, frontal, and cerebellar lesions), white matter lesion volume, thalamic volume, and corpus callosum density. CONCLUSION This study indicates that MRI can be used to predict the cognitive decline, disability progression, and disease progression in MS patients over time.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alia Saberi
- Department of Neurology, Poursina Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Kasra Sarlak
- Faculty of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
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Carass A, Greenman D, Dewey BE, Calabresi PA, Prince JL, Pham DL. Image harmonization improves consistency of intra-rater delineations of MS lesions in heterogeneous MRI. NEUROIMAGE. REPORTS 2024; 4:100195. [PMID: 38370461 PMCID: PMC10871705 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynirp.2024.100195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Clinical magnetic resonance images (MRIs) lack a standard intensity scale due to differences in scanner hardware and the pulse sequences used to acquire the images. When MRIs are used for quantification, as in the evaluation of white matter lesions (WMLs) in multiple sclerosis, this lack of intensity standardization becomes a critical problem affecting both the staging and tracking of the disease and its treatment. This paper presents a study of harmonization on WML segmentation consistency, which is evaluated using an object detection classification scheme that incorporates manual delineations from both the original and harmonized MRIs. A cohort of ten people scanned on two different imaging platforms was studied. An expert rater, blinded to the image source, manually delineated WMLs on images from both scanners before and after harmonization. It was found that there is closer agreement in both global and per-lesion WML volume and spatial distribution after harmonization, demonstrating the importance of image harmonization prior to the creation of manual delineations. These results could lead to better truth models in both the development and evaluation of automated lesion segmentation algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Carass
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Danielle Greenman
- Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD 20817, USA
| | - Blake E. Dewey
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Peter A. Calabresi
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Jerry L. Prince
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Dzung L. Pham
- Department of Radiology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
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Ananthavarathan P, Sahi N, Chard DT. An update on the role of magnetic resonance imaging in predicting and monitoring multiple sclerosis progression. Expert Rev Neurother 2024; 24:201-216. [PMID: 38235594 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2024.2304116] [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: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION While magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is established in diagnosing and monitoring disease activity in multiple sclerosis (MS), its utility in predicting and monitoring disease progression is less clear. AREAS COVERED The authors consider changing concepts in the phenotypic classification of MS, including progression independent of relapses; pathological processes underpinning progression; advances in MRI measures to assess them; how well MRI features explain and predict clinical outcomes, including models that assess disease effects on neural networks, and the potential role for machine learning. EXPERT OPINION Relapsing-remitting and progressive MS have evolved from being viewed as mutually exclusive to having considerable overlap. Progression is likely the consequence of several pathological elements, each important in building more holistic prognostic models beyond conventional phenotypes. MRI is well placed to assess pathogenic processes underpinning progression, but we need to bridge the gap between MRI measures and clinical outcomes. Mapping pathological effects on specific neural networks may help and machine learning methods may be able to optimize predictive markers while identifying new, or previously overlooked, clinically relevant features. The ever-increasing ability to measure features on MRI raises the dilemma of what to measure and when, and the challenge of translating research methods into clinically useable tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piriyankan Ananthavarathan
- Department of Neuroinflammation, University College London Queen Square Multiple Sclerosis Centre, London, UK
| | - Nitin Sahi
- Department of Neuroinflammation, University College London Queen Square Multiple Sclerosis Centre, London, UK
| | - Declan T Chard
- Clinical Research Associate & Consultant Neurologist, Institute of Neurology - Queen Square Multiple Sclerosis Centre, London, UK
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Gakis G, Angelopoulos I, Panagoulias I, Mouzaki A. Current knowledge on multiple sclerosis pathophysiology, disability progression assessment and treatment options, and the role of autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Autoimmun Rev 2024; 23:103480. [PMID: 38008300 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2023.103480] [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] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS) that affects nearly 2.8 million people each year. MS distinguishes three main types: relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), secondary progressive MS (SPMS) and primary progressive MS (PPMS). RRMS is the most common type, with the majority of patients eventually progressing to SPMS, in which neurological development is constant, whereas PPMS is characterized by a progressive course from disease onset. New or additional insights into the role of effector and regulatory cells of the immune and CNS systems, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection, and the microbiome in the pathophysiology of MS have emerged, which may lead to the development of more targeted therapies that can halt or reverse neurodegeneration. Depending on the type and severity of the disease, various disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) are currently used for RRMS/SPMS and PPMS. As a last resort, and especially in highly active RRMS that does not respond to DMTs, autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) is performed and has shown good results in reducing neuroinflammation. Nevertheless, the question of its potential role in preventing disability progression remains open. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive update on MS pathophysiology, assessment of MS disability progression and current treatments, and to examine the potential role of AHSCT in preventing disability progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Gakis
- Laboratory of Immunohematology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Ioannis Angelopoulos
- Laboratory of Immunohematology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Ioannis Panagoulias
- Laboratory of Immunohematology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Athanasia Mouzaki
- Laboratory of Immunohematology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece.
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Bergsland N, Dwyer MG, Jakimovski D, Tavazzi E, Benedict RHB, Weinstock-Guttman B, Zivadinov R. Association of Choroid Plexus Inflammation on MRI With Clinical Disability Progression Over 5 Years in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis. Neurology 2023; 100:e911-e920. [PMID: 36543575 PMCID: PMC9990433 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000201608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Inflammation of the choroid plexus (CP) has been reported in multiple sclerosis (MS). The AU1 association between CP inflammation and clinical disability progression is still under debate. The objective of the current study was to assess the relationship between measures of CP inflammation and investigate their associations with clinical disability progression in MS. METHODS In this retrospective analysis of a longitudinal study, 174 patients with MS (118 with relapsing-remitting MS and 56 with progressive MS [PMS]) and 56 healthy controls (HCs), group matched for age and sex, were imaged on a 3T MRI scanner at baseline and after an average of 5.5 years of follow-up. T2 lesion volume (T2-LV) was assessed. Regional tissue volumes were calculated. CP volume was measured, and pseudo-T2 (pT2) mapping was performed to asses CP inflammation. Group comparisons and correlations were adjusted for age and sex. RESULTS Patients with MS presented with significantly larger CP volume (p = 0.01) and increased CP pT2 (<0.001) at baseline, when compared with HCs. CP volume and CP pT2 did not significantly increase over the follow-up in the MS sample. However, baseline CP pT2 was associated with clinical disability progression at follow-up (p = 0.001), even after controlling for all other factors significantly associated with disability progression (p = 0.030), including T2-LV, normalized brain volume, normalized gray matter volume, and normalized thalamic volumes. Changes in CP volume and CP pT2 were not related to changes in clinical parameters such as relapse rate over the course of the follow-up. DISCUSSION CP inflammation, as evidenced by MRI, is clinically relevant in MS. CP inflammation may have a relevant role in driving disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niels Bergsland
- From the Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center (N.B., M.G.D., D.J., R.Z.), Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York; IRCCS (N.B.), Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, Milan; Multiple Sclerosis Centre (E.T.), IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy; Department of Neurology (R.H.B.B., B.W.-G.), University at Buffalo, University Neurology, NY; and Center for Biomedical Imaging at Clinical Translational Research Center (R.Z.), Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York.
| | - Michael G Dwyer
- From the Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center (N.B., M.G.D., D.J., R.Z.), Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York; IRCCS (N.B.), Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, Milan; Multiple Sclerosis Centre (E.T.), IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy; Department of Neurology (R.H.B.B., B.W.-G.), University at Buffalo, University Neurology, NY; and Center for Biomedical Imaging at Clinical Translational Research Center (R.Z.), Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York
| | - Dejan Jakimovski
- From the Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center (N.B., M.G.D., D.J., R.Z.), Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York; IRCCS (N.B.), Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, Milan; Multiple Sclerosis Centre (E.T.), IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy; Department of Neurology (R.H.B.B., B.W.-G.), University at Buffalo, University Neurology, NY; and Center for Biomedical Imaging at Clinical Translational Research Center (R.Z.), Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York
| | - Eleonora Tavazzi
- From the Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center (N.B., M.G.D., D.J., R.Z.), Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York; IRCCS (N.B.), Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, Milan; Multiple Sclerosis Centre (E.T.), IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy; Department of Neurology (R.H.B.B., B.W.-G.), University at Buffalo, University Neurology, NY; and Center for Biomedical Imaging at Clinical Translational Research Center (R.Z.), Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York
| | - Ralph H B Benedict
- From the Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center (N.B., M.G.D., D.J., R.Z.), Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York; IRCCS (N.B.), Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, Milan; Multiple Sclerosis Centre (E.T.), IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy; Department of Neurology (R.H.B.B., B.W.-G.), University at Buffalo, University Neurology, NY; and Center for Biomedical Imaging at Clinical Translational Research Center (R.Z.), Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York
| | - Bianca Weinstock-Guttman
- From the Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center (N.B., M.G.D., D.J., R.Z.), Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York; IRCCS (N.B.), Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, Milan; Multiple Sclerosis Centre (E.T.), IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy; Department of Neurology (R.H.B.B., B.W.-G.), University at Buffalo, University Neurology, NY; and Center for Biomedical Imaging at Clinical Translational Research Center (R.Z.), Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York
| | - Robert Zivadinov
- From the Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center (N.B., M.G.D., D.J., R.Z.), Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York; IRCCS (N.B.), Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, Milan; Multiple Sclerosis Centre (E.T.), IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy; Department of Neurology (R.H.B.B., B.W.-G.), University at Buffalo, University Neurology, NY; and Center for Biomedical Imaging at Clinical Translational Research Center (R.Z.), Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York
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Jacob S, Mazibrada G, Irani SR, Jacob A, Yudina A. The Role of Plasma Exchange in the Treatment of Refractory Autoimmune Neurological Diseases: a Narrative Review. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2021; 16:806-817. [PMID: 34599742 PMCID: PMC8714620 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-021-10004-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune neurological disorders are commonly treated with immunosuppressive therapy. In patients with refractory conditions, standard immunosuppression is often insufficient for complete recovery or to prevent relapses. These patients rely on other treatments to manage their disease. While treatment of refractory cases differs between diseases, intravenous immunoglobulin, plasma exchange (PLEX), and immune-modulating treatments are commonly used. In this review, we focus on five autoimmune neurological disorders that were the themes of the 2018 Midlands Neurological Society meeting on PLEX in refractory neurology: Autoimmune Encephalitis (AE), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum disorders (NMOSD), Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) and Myasthenia Gravis (MG). The diagnosis of inflammatory neuropathies is often challenging, and while PLEX can be very effective in refractory autoimmune diseases, its ineffectiveness can be confounded by misdiagnosis. One example is POEMS syndrome (characterized by Polyneuropathy Organomegaly, Endocrinopathy, Myeloma protein, Skin changes), which is often wrongly diagnosed as CIDP; and while CIDP responds well to PLEX, POEMS does not. Accurate diagnosis is therefore essential. Success rates can also differ within 'one' disease: e.g. response rates to PLEX are considerably higher in refractory relapsing remitting MS compared to primary or secondary progressive MS. When sufficient efforts are made to correctly pinpoint the diagnosis along with the type and subtype of refractory autoimmune disease, PLEX and other immunotherapies can play a valuable role in the patient management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saiju Jacob
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom. .,Department of Neurology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
| | - Gordon Mazibrada
- Department of Neurology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Sarosh R Irani
- Oxford Autoimmune Neurology Group, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Anu Jacob
- Department of Neurology, The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, NMO Service, Liverpool, United Kingdom.,Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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9
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Williams T, Zetterberg H, Chataway J. Neurofilaments in progressive multiple sclerosis: a systematic review. J Neurol 2021; 268:3212-3222. [PMID: 32447549 PMCID: PMC8357650 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-020-09917-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurofilament proteins have been extensively studied in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, where they are promising biomarkers of disease activity and treatment response. Their role in progressive multiple sclerosis, where there is a particularly urgent need for improved biomarkers, is less clear. The objectives of this systematic review are to summarise the literature on neurofilament light and heavy in progressive multiple sclerosis, addressing key questions. METHODS A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Scopus identified 355 potential sources. 76 relevant sources were qualitatively reviewed using QUADAS-2 criteria, and 17 were identified as at low risk of bias. We summarise the findings from all relevant sources, and separately from the 17 high-quality studies. RESULTS Differences in neurofilament light between relapsing-remitting and progressive multiple sclerosis appear to be explained by differences in covariates. Neurofilament light is consistently associated with current inflammatory activity and future brain atrophy in progressive multiple sclerosis, and is consistently shown to be a marker of treatment response with immunosuppressive disease-modifying therapies. Associations with current or future disability are inconsistent, and there is no evidence of NFL being a responsive marker of purportedly neuroprotective treatments. Evidence on neurofilament heavy is more limited and inconsistent. CONCLUSIONS Neurofilament light has shown consistent utility as a biomarker of neuroinflammation, future brain atrophy and immunosuppressive treatment response at a group level. Neither neurofilament light or heavy has shown a consistent treatment response to neuroprotective disease-modifying therapies, which will require further data from successful randomised controlled trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Williams
- Department of Neuroinflammation, Faculty of Brain Sciences, Queen Square Multiple Sclerosis Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK.
| | - Henrik Zetterberg
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy At the University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
- Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Jeremy Chataway
- Department of Neuroinflammation, Faculty of Brain Sciences, Queen Square Multiple Sclerosis Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
- Biomedical Research Centre, National Institute for Health Research, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
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10
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Jakimovski D, Dwyer MG, Bergsland N, Weinstock-Guttman B, Zivadinov R. Disease biomarkers in multiple sclerosis: current serum neurofilament light chain perspectives. Neurodegener Dis Manag 2021; 11:329-340. [PMID: 34196596 DOI: 10.2217/nmt-2020-0058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The continuous neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative pathology in multiple sclerosis (MS) results in irreversible accumulation of physical and cognitive disability. Reliable early detection of MS disease processes can aid in the diagnosis, monitoring and treatment management of MS patients. Recent assay technological advancements now allow reliable quantification of serum-based neurofilament light chain (sNfL) levels, which provide temporal information regarding the degree of neuroaxonal damage. The relationship and predictive value of sNfL with clinical and cognitive outcomes, other paraclinical measures and treatment response is reviewed. sNfL measurement is an emerging, noninvasive and disease-responsive MS biomarker that is currently utilized in research and clinical trial settings. Understanding sNfL confounders and further assay standardization will allow clinical implementation of this biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dejan Jakimovski
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center (BNAC), Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Michael G Dwyer
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center (BNAC), Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Niels Bergsland
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center (BNAC), Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA.,IRCCS, Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, Milan, 20148, Italy
| | - Bianca Weinstock-Guttman
- Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment & Research Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Robert Zivadinov
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center (BNAC), Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA.,Center for Biomedical Imaging at Clinical Translational Science Institute, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
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Bergsland N, Dwyer MG, Jakimovski D, Weinstock-Guttman B, Zivadinov R. Diffusion tensor imaging reveals greater microstructure damage in lesional tissue that shrinks into cerebrospinal fluid in multiple sclerosis. J Neuroimaging 2021; 31:995-1002. [PMID: 34081373 DOI: 10.1111/jon.12891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Atrophied T2 lesion volume (LV), reflecting the complete transformation of lesions into cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), has been associated with disease progression in multiple sclerosis (MS). The underlying damage leading to lesion destruction remains poorly understood. The objective of this study was to use diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to investigate the extent of microstructural tissue damage at baseline in lesions that subsequently transform into CSF. METHODS Ninety-nine MS patients (67 relapsing-remitting MS [RRMS] and 32 progressive PMS [PMS]) were imaged at baseline and after an average of 5.3 ± 0.6 years of follow-up. Assessments included T2 LV and DTI at baseline and atrophied T2 LV over follow-up. Lesioned areas that became atrophied T2 LV were compared to those that did not. Baseline lesional DTI metrics were compared between RRMS versus PMS patients and between patients with disability progression (DP, n = 35) versus non-DP (n = 64), using ANCOVA models. RESULTS Lesion tissue that developed into atrophied T2 LV had significantly different baseline DTI parameters compared to nonatrophied T2-LV tissue (p<0.001), with the largest effect for free-water (d = 2.739). Baseline tissue characteristics of future atrophied T2 LV were not significantly different between groups. However, DP patients developed greater atrophied T2 LV (377 vs. 83 mm3 , p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Extensive microstructural damage characterizes lesions replaced by CSF, independently of disease phenotype or future DP. Greater atrophied T2 LV predicts DP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niels Bergsland
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York, USA.,IRCCS, Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, Milan, Italy
| | - Michael G Dwyer
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Dejan Jakimovski
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Bianca Weinstock-Guttman
- Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Robert Zivadinov
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York, USA.,Center for Biomedical Imaging at Clinical Translational Science Institute, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York, USA
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12
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Sun B, Ramberger M, O'Connor KC, Bashford-Rogers RJM, Irani SR. The B cell immunobiology that underlies CNS autoantibody-mediated diseases. Nat Rev Neurol 2020; 16:481-492. [PMID: 32724223 PMCID: PMC9364389 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-020-0381-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
A rapidly expanding and clinically distinct group of CNS diseases are caused by pathogenic autoantibodies that target neuroglial surface proteins. Despite immunotherapy, patients with these neuroglial surface autoantibody (NSAb)-mediated diseases often experience clinical relapse, high rates of long-term morbidity and adverse effects from the available medications. Fundamentally, the autoantigen-specific B cell lineage leads to production of the pathogenic autoantibodies. These autoantigen-specific B cells have been consistently identified in the circulation of patients with NSAb-mediated diseases, accompanied by high serum levels of autoantigen-specific antibodies. Early evidence suggests that these cells evade well-characterized B cell tolerance checkpoints. Nearer to the site of pathology, cerebrospinal fluid from patients with NSAb-mediated diseases contains high levels of autoantigen-specific B cells that are likely to account for the intrathecal synthesis of these autoantibodies. The characteristics of their immunoglobulin genes offer insights into the underlying immunobiology. In this Review, we summarize the emerging knowledge of B cells across the NSAb-mediated diseases. We review the evidence for the relative contributions of germinal centres and long-lived plasma cells as sources of autoantibodies, discuss data that indicate migration of B cells into the CNS and summarize insights into the underlying B cell pathogenesis that are provided by therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Sun
- Oxford Autoimmune Neurology Group, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Melanie Ramberger
- Oxford Autoimmune Neurology Group, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Kevin C O'Connor
- Departments of Neurology and Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
| | | | - Sarosh R Irani
- Oxford Autoimmune Neurology Group, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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Tavazzi E, Zivadinov R, Dwyer MG, Jakimovski D, Singhal T, Weinstock-Guttman B, Bergsland N. MRI biomarkers of disease progression and conversion to secondary-progressive multiple sclerosis. Expert Rev Neurother 2020; 20:821-834. [PMID: 32306772 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2020.1757435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Conventional imaging measures remain a key clinical tool for the diagnosis multiple sclerosis (MS) and monitoring of patients. However, most measures used in the clinic show unsatisfactory performance in predicting disease progression and conversion to secondary progressive MS. AREAS COVERED Sophisticated imaging techniques have facilitated the identification of imaging biomarkers associated with disease progression, such as global and regional brain volume measures, and with conversion to secondary progressive MS, such as leptomeningeal contrast enhancement and chronic inflammation. The relevance of emerging imaging approaches partially overcoming intrinsic limitations of traditional techniques is also discussed. EXPERT OPINION Imaging biomarkers capable of detecting tissue damage early on in the disease, with the potential to be applied in multicenter trials and at an individual level in clinical settings, are strongly needed. Several measures have been proposed, which exploit advanced imaging acquisitions and/or incorporate sophisticated post-processing, can quantify irreversible tissue damage. The progressively wider use of high-strength field MRI and the development of more advanced imaging techniques will help capture the missing pieces of the MS puzzle. The ability to more reliably identify those at risk for disability progression will allow for earlier intervention with the aim to favorably alter the disease course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Tavazzi
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York , Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Robert Zivadinov
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York , Buffalo, NY, USA.,Translational Imaging Center, Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York , Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Michael G Dwyer
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York , Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Dejan Jakimovski
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York , Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Tarun Singhal
- PET Imaging Program in Neurologic Diseases and Partners Multiple Sclerosis Center, Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Disease, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School , Boston, MA, USA
| | - Bianca Weinstock-Guttman
- Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York , Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Niels Bergsland
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York , Buffalo, NY, USA.,IRCCS, Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi , Milan, Italy
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