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Fang T, Pacut P, Bose A, Sun Y, Gao J, Sivakumar S, Bloom B, Nascimento Andrade EI, Trombetta B, Ghasemi M. Clinical and genetic factors affecting diagnostic timeline of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a 15-year retrospective study. Neurol Res 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38825034 DOI: 10.1080/01616412.2024.2362578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) diagnosis can take 10-16 months from symptom onset, leading to delays in treatment and patient counselling. We studied the impact of clinical and genetic risk factors on the diagnostic timeline of ALS. METHODS Baseline characteristics, family history, gene testing, onset location, time from symptom onset to diagnosis, and time from first doctor visit to suspected ALS was collected. We used multiple regression to assess the interaction of these factors on ALS diagnostic timeline. We analysed a subgroup of patients with genetic testing and compared positive or negative tests, sporadic or familial and ALS-related genes to time for diagnosis. RESULTS Four hundred and forty-eight patients diagnosed with ALS at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical Center between January 2007 and December 2021 were analysed. The median time to ALS diagnosis was 12 months and remained unchanged from 2007 to 2021 (p = 0.20). Diagnosis was delayed in patients with sporadic compared with familial ALS (mean months [standard deviation], 16.5[13.5] and 11.2[8.5], p < 0.001); cognitive onset (41[21.26]) had longer time to diagnosis than bulbar (11.9[8.2]), limb (15.9[13.2]), respiratory (19.7[13.9]) and ALS with multiple onset locations (20.77[15.71], p < 0.001). One hundred and thirty-four patients had gene testing and 32 tested positive (23.8%). Gene testing (p = 0.23), a positive genetic test (p = 0.16), different ALS genes (p = 0.25) and sporadic (p = 0.92) or familial (p = 0.85) ALS testing positive for ALS genes did not influence time to diagnosis. DISCUSSION Time for ALS diagnosis remained unchanged from 2007 to 2021, bulbar-onset and familial ALS made for faster diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ton Fang
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Peter Pacut
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Abigail Bose
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Yuyao Sun
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Jeff Gao
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Shravan Sivakumar
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Brooke Bloom
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | | | - Bianca Trombetta
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Mehdi Ghasemi
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, Burlington, MA, USA
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2
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Duranti E, Villa C. Muscle Involvement in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Understanding the Pathogenesis and Advancing Therapeutics. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1582. [PMID: 38002264 PMCID: PMC10669302 DOI: 10.3390/biom13111582] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal condition characterized by the selective loss of motor neurons in the motor cortex, brainstem, and spinal cord. Muscle involvement, muscle atrophy, and subsequent paralysis are among the main features of this disease, which is defined as a neuromuscular disorder. ALS is a persistently progressive disease, and as motor neurons continue to degenerate, individuals with ALS experience a gradual decline in their ability to perform daily activities. Ultimately, muscle function loss may result in paralysis, presenting significant challenges in mobility, communication, and self-care. While the majority of ALS research has traditionally focused on pathogenic pathways in the central nervous system, there has been a great interest in muscle research. These studies were carried out on patients and animal models in order to better understand the molecular mechanisms involved and to develop therapies aimed at improving muscle function. This review summarizes the features of ALS and discusses the role of muscle, as well as examines recent studies in the development of treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chiara Villa
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy;
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3
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Fan Y, Goh ELK, Chan JKY. Neural Cells for Neurodegenerative Diseases in Clinical Trials. Stem Cells Transl Med 2023; 12:510-526. [PMID: 37487111 PMCID: PMC10427968 DOI: 10.1093/stcltm/szad041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (ND) are an entire spectrum of clinical conditions that affect the central and peripheral nervous system. There is no cure currently, with treatment focusing mainly on slowing down progression or symptomatic relief. Cellular therapies with various cell types from different sources are being conducted as clinical trials for several ND diseases. They include neural, mesenchymal and hemopoietic stem cells, and neural cells derived from embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells. In this review, we present the list of cellular therapies for ND comprising 33 trials that used neural stem progenitors, 8 that used differentiated neural cells ,and 109 trials that involved non-neural cells in the 7 ND. Encouraging results have been shown in a few early-phase clinical trials that require further investigations in a randomized setting. However, such definitive trials may not be possible given the relative cost of the trials, and in the setting of rare diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiping Fan
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Experimental Fetal Medicine Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
- Academic Clinical Program in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Eyleen L K Goh
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Faculty, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jerry Kok Yen Chan
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Experimental Fetal Medicine Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
- Academic Clinical Program in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
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4
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Sironi F, De Marchi F, Mazzini L, Bendotti C. Cell therapy in ALS: An update on preclinical and clinical studies. Brain Res Bull 2023; 194:64-81. [PMID: 36690163 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2023.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by the loss of motor neurons and neuromuscular impairment leading to complete paralysis, respiratory failure and premature death. The pathogenesis of the disease is multifactorial and noncell-autonomous involving the central and peripheral compartments of the neuromuscular axis and the skeletal muscle. Advanced clinical trials on specific ALS-related pathways have failed to significantly slow the disease. Therapy with stem cells from different sources has provided a promising strategy to protect the motor units exerting their effect through multiple mechanisms including neurotrophic support and excitotoxicity and neuroinflammation modulation, as evidenced from preclinical studies. Several phase I and II clinical trial of ALS patients have been developed showing positive effects in terms of safety and tolerability. However, the modest results on functional improvement in ALS patients suggest that only a coordinated effort between basic and clinical researchers could solve many problems, such as selecting the ideal stem cell source, identifying their mechanism of action and expected clinical outcomes. A promising approach may be stem cells selected or engineered to deliver optimal growth factor support at multiple sites along the neuromuscular pathway. This review covers recent advances in stem cell therapies in animal models of ALS, as well as detailing the human clinical trials that have been done and are currently undergoing development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Sironi
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri 2, Milan 20156, Italy
| | - Fabiola De Marchi
- Department of Neurology and ALS Centre, University of Piemonte Orientale, Maggiore Della Carità Hospital, Corso Mazzini 18, Novara 28100, Italy
| | - Letizia Mazzini
- Department of Neurology and ALS Centre, University of Piemonte Orientale, Maggiore Della Carità Hospital, Corso Mazzini 18, Novara 28100, Italy.
| | - Caterina Bendotti
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri 2, Milan 20156, Italy.
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5
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Maksymowicz S, Libura M, Malarkiewicz P. Overcoming therapeutic nihilism. Breaking bad news of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis—a patient-centred perspective in rare diseases. Neurol Sci 2022; 43:4257-4265. [PMID: 35149928 PMCID: PMC9213364 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-022-05931-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rare, incurable, and fatal neurodegenerative disease with median survival time from onset to death ranging from 20 to 48 months. Breaking bad news about ALS diagnosis is a challenging task for physicians and a life-changing experience for patients. Several protocols for delivering difficult information are available, including SPIKES and EMPATHY. Our goal was to assess to what extent these guidelines are followed in Polish ALS patients’ experience as well as to identify any other patients’ preferences not addressed by the guidelines. Participants of our study were recruited via a neurology clinic. Twenty-four patients with confirmed ALS diagnosis were interviewed using in-depth interview and a self-constructed questionnaire: 9 females, 15 males in age ranging from 30–39 to 60–69. The analysis showed a pattern of shortcomings and fundamental violations of available protocols reported by ALS patients. Patients also had to deal with therapeutic nihilism, as they were perceived as “hopeless cases”; unlike in oncological setting, their end-of-life needs were not accommodated by some standard schemes. As a conclusion, we recommend using extended breaking bad news protocols with special emphasis on preparing a treatment plan, giving the patient hope and sense of purpose, offering psychological support and counselling directed to patients and caregivers, and providing the patient with meaningful information about the disease, social support, treatment options, and referral to appropriate health care centres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanisław Maksymowicz
- Department of Psychology and Sociology of Health and Public Health, School of Public Health, Collegium Medicum of the University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
- Instytut Terapii Komórkowych S.A., Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Maria Libura
- Medical Education and Simulation Department, School of Medicine, Collegium Medicum of the University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Paulina Malarkiewicz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Collegium Medicum of the University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
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6
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Tarantino N, Canfora I, Camerino GM, Pierno S. Therapeutic Targets in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Focus on Ion Channels and Skeletal Muscle. Cells 2022; 11:cells11030415. [PMID: 35159225 PMCID: PMC8834084 DOI: 10.3390/cells11030415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis is a neurodegenerative disease caused by progressive loss of motor neurons, which severely compromises skeletal muscle function. Evidence shows that muscle may act as a molecular powerhouse, whose final signals generate in patients a progressive loss of voluntary muscle function and weakness leading to paralysis. This pathology is the result of a complex cascade of events that involves a crosstalk among motor neurons, glia, and muscles, and evolves through the action of converging toxic mechanisms. In fact, mitochondrial dysfunction, which leads to oxidative stress, is one of the mechanisms causing cell death. It is a common denominator for the two existing forms of the disease: sporadic and familial. Other factors include excitotoxicity, inflammation, and protein aggregation. Currently, there are limited cures. The only approved drug for therapy is riluzole, that modestly prolongs survival, with edaravone now waiting for new clinical trial aimed to clarify its efficacy. Thus, there is a need of effective treatments to reverse the damage in this devastating pathology. Many drugs have been already tested in clinical trials and are currently under investigation. This review summarizes the already tested drugs aimed at restoring muscle-nerve cross-talk and on new treatment options targeting this tissue.
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7
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Liu E, Karpf L, Bohl D. Neuroinflammation in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Frontotemporal Dementia and the Interest of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells to Study Immune Cells Interactions With Neurons. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 14:767041. [PMID: 34970118 PMCID: PMC8712677 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.767041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is a shared hallmark between amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). For long, studies were conducted on tissues of post-mortem patients and neuroinflammation was thought to be only bystander result of the disease with the immune system reacting to dying neurons. In the last two decades, thanks to improving technologies, the identification of causal genes and the development of new tools and models, the involvement of inflammation has emerged as a potential driver of the diseases and evolved as a new area of intense research. In this review, we present the current knowledge about neuroinflammation in ALS, ALS-FTD, and FTD patients and animal models and we discuss reasons of failures linked to therapeutic trials with immunomodulator drugs. Then we present the induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology and its interest as a new tool to have a better immunopathological comprehension of both diseases in a human context. The iPSC technology giving the unique opportunity to study cells across differentiation and maturation times, brings the hope to shed light on the different mechanisms linking neurodegeneration and activation of the immune system. Protocols available to differentiate iPSC into different immune cell types are presented. Finally, we discuss the interest in studying monocultures of iPS-derived immune cells, co-cultures with neurons and 3D cultures with different cell types, as more integrated cellular approaches. The hope is that the future work with human iPS-derived cells helps not only to identify disease-specific defects in the different cell types but also to decipher the synergistic effects between neurons and immune cells. These new cellular tools could help to find new therapeutic approaches for all patients with ALS, ALS-FTD, and FTD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Liu
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau - Paris Brain Institute - ICM, INSERM, CNRS, AP-HP, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Léa Karpf
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau - Paris Brain Institute - ICM, INSERM, CNRS, AP-HP, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Delphine Bohl
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau - Paris Brain Institute - ICM, INSERM, CNRS, AP-HP, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
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8
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Aljabri A, Halawani A, Bin Lajdam G, Labban S, Alshehri S, Felemban R. The Safety and Efficacy of Stem Cell Therapy as an Emerging Therapy for ALS: A Systematic Review of Controlled Clinical Trials. Front Neurol 2021; 12:783122. [PMID: 34938264 PMCID: PMC8685950 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.783122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease with a heterogeneous course that ultimately leads to death. Currently, there is no cure, and new treatments that can slow the progression of the disease are needed. Stem cell (SC) transplantation is an emerging therapy that has shown a lot of potential in recent clinical trials. This review is aimed to examine the results of various clinical trials on this topic, thus assessing the safety and efficacy of SC transplantation as a potential treatment for ALS. We identified 748 studies in our search, of which 134 full-text studies were assessed for eligibility. Six studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. Although some of the included studies showed the positive effect of SC transplantation, other studies found that there was no significant difference compared to the control group. We observed more positive effects with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSC) treatments than Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) ones. However, other factors, such as route of administration, number of doses, and number of cells per dose, could also play a role in this discrepancy. Based on this information, we conclude that more properly conducted clinical trials are needed to appreciate the benefit of this treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ammar Aljabri
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alhussain Halawani
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ghassan Bin Lajdam
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Suhail Labban
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Samah Alshehri
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Razaz Felemban
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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9
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Tavakol-Afshari J, Boroumand AR, Farkhad NK, Adhami Moghadam A, Sahab-Negah S, Gorji A. Safety and efficacy of bone marrow derived-mesenchymal stem cells transplantation in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Regen Ther 2021; 18:268-274. [PMID: 34466632 PMCID: PMC8377537 DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2021.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cell-based treatments have emerged as potentially effective approaches to delay the progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This study was designed as a single-center, prospective, and open-label study without a placebo control group to assess the safety and efficacy of concurrent intrathecal (IT) and intravenous (IV) administration of autologous bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) in patients with ALS. Autologous BM-MSCs were isolated and expanded under standard conditions. Fifteen patients were neurologically examined before BM-MSCs transplantation (1 × 10 6 cells/kg BW) to evaluate the rate of pre-treatment disease progression. To assess the safety and efficacy, patients were examined at 1, 3, and 6 months following the treatment with BM-MSCs. Adverse reactions were assessed, and the clinical outcome was determined by the evaluation of the ALS functional rating scale-revised (ALSFRS-R) and forced vital capacity (FVC). No serious adverse reaction was observed after combined IT and IV administration of BM-MSCs. The mean ALSFRS-R and FVC values remained stable during the first 3 months of the treatment. However, a significant reduction in ALSFRS-R and FVC levels was observed in these patients 6 months after BM-MSCs administration. Our study revealed that the concurrent IT and IV application of BM-MSCs in patients with ALS is a safe procedure. Furthermore, our data indicate a temporary delay in the progression of ALS after a single combined IT and IV administration of BM-MSCs. Further studies are required to explore if the repeated applications of BM-MSCs could prolong survival and delay the progression of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amir Reza Boroumand
- Neuroscience Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Najmeh Kaffash Farkhad
- Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amir Adhami Moghadam
- Department of Internal Medicine and Critical Care, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
- Specialty of Internal Medicine and Critical Care, Head of Army Hospital ICU and Intensive, Iran
| | - Sajad Sahab-Negah
- Neuroscience Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Shefa Neuroscience Research Center, Khatam Alanbia Hospital, Tehran, Iran
- Corresponding author. Neuroscience Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Pardis Campus, Azadi Square, Kalantari Blvd., Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Ali Gorji
- Neuroscience Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Shefa Neuroscience Research Center, Khatam Alanbia Hospital, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Neurosurgery, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Münster, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Münster, Germany
- Epilepsy Research Center, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Münster, Germany
- Corresponding author. Epilepsy Research Center, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Münster, D-48149, Germany.
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10
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Looking backward to move forward: a meta-analysis of stem cell therapy in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. NPJ Regen Med 2021; 6:20. [PMID: 33795700 PMCID: PMC8016966 DOI: 10.1038/s41536-021-00131-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Transplantation of several types of stem cells (SC) for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) has been evaluated in numerous Phase I/II clinical trials with inconclusive results. Here, we conducted a meta-analysis to systematically assess the outcome of SC therapy trials which report the evolution of each patient before and after cell administration. In this way, we aimed to determine the effect of the SC intervention despite individual heterogeneity in disease progression. We identified 670 references by electronic search and 90 full-text studies were evaluated according to the eligibility criteria. Eleven studies were included comprising 220 cell-treated patients who received mesenchymal (M) SC (n = 152), neural (N) SC (n = 57), or mononuclear cells (MNC: CD34, CD117, and CD133 positive cells) (n = 11). Our analyses indicate that whereas intrathecal injection of mesenchymal stromal cells appears to have a transient positive effect on clinical progression, as measured by the ALS functional rating score, there was a worsening of respiratory function measured by forced vital capacity after all interventions. Based on current evidence, we conclude that optimal cell product and route of administration need to be determined in properly controlled preclinical models before further advancing into ALS patients. In addition, in-depth understanding of disease mechanisms in subsets of patients will help tailoring SC therapy to specific targets and increase the likelihood of improving outcomes.
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11
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Ornelas-González A, González-González M, Rito-Palomares M. Microcarrier-based stem cell bioprocessing: GMP-grade culture challenges and future trends for regenerative medicine. Crit Rev Biotechnol 2021; 41:1081-1095. [PMID: 33730936 DOI: 10.1080/07388551.2021.1898328] [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: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Recently, stem cell-based therapies have been proposed as an alternative for the treatment of many diseases. Stem cells (SCs) are well known for their capacity to preserve themselves, proliferate, and differentiate into multiple lineages. These characteristics allow stem cells to be a viable option for the treatment of diverse diseases. Traditional methodologies based on 2-dimensional culture techniques (T-flasks and Petri dishes) are simple and well standardized; however, they present disadvantages that limit the production of the cell yield required for regenerative medicine applications. Lately, microcarrier (MC)-based culture techniques have emerged as an attractive platform for expanding stem cells in suspension systems. Although the use of stem cell expansion on MCs has recently shown significant increase, their implementation for medical purposes is been hampered by bottlenecks in upstream and downstream processing. Therefore, there is an urgent need in the development of bioprocesses that simplify stem cell cultures under xeno-free conditions and detachment from MCs without diminishing their pluripotency and viability. A critical analysis of the factors that impact the up and downstream bioprocessing on MC-based stem cell cultures is presented in this review. This analysis aims to raise the awareness of the current drawbacks that limit MC-based stem cell bioprocessing in regenerative medicine and propose alternatives to overcome them.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marco Rito-Palomares
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Monterrey, Mexico
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12
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Abstract
Background: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive upper- and lower-motor-neuron degenerative disease. Despite extensive research, there is no curative Western treatment. Medications, such as riluzole and edaravone, are, at best, slightly life-prolonging. Most published accounts of acupuncture treatments for ALS have described Traditional Chinese Medicine points. Case: A 60-year-old man had moderately advanced ALS. He was wheelchair-bound, and had wasting muscles, a weak voice, and dysphagia. No Western medical treatment altered the progression of his disease. Treatment for this patient started with Chinese Scalp Acupuncture (CSA) and, eventually, auricular acupuncture was incorporated. Traditional Chinese acupuncture points and other acupuncture techniques were added later for specific purposes. Results: This treatment combination produced several days of robust clinical improvement after each treatment in terms of speaking, sensation, ambulation, and breathing. Conclusions: It is possible that the combination of CSA and auriculotherapy had a synergistic effect that was beneficial for this patient. Other traditional Chinese acupuncture points that were added to the treatment helped address specific issues but did not appear to have any substantial impact on his larger ALS symptoms. ALS is a progressive neurologic disease that is uniformly fatal. More clinical research is needed to evaluate the role of CSA and auricular acupuncture in treating this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik K Koda
- Department of Family Medicine, Uniformed Services University, Banholzer Clinic, Joint Base Andrews, MD, USA
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13
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Ahuja CS, Mothe A, Khazaei M, Badhiwala JH, Gilbert EA, van der Kooy D, Morshead CM, Tator C, Fehlings MG. The leading edge: Emerging neuroprotective and neuroregenerative cell-based therapies for spinal cord injury. Stem Cells Transl Med 2020; 9:1509-1530. [PMID: 32691994 PMCID: PMC7695641 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.19-0135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are associated with tremendous physical, social, and financial costs for millions of individuals and families worldwide. Rapid delivery of specialized medical and surgical care has reduced mortality; however, long-term functional recovery remains limited. Cell-based therapies represent an exciting neuroprotective and neuroregenerative strategy for SCI. This article summarizes the most promising preclinical and clinical cell approaches to date including transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells, neural stem cells, oligodendrocyte progenitor cells, Schwann cells, and olfactory ensheathing cells, as well as strategies to activate endogenous multipotent cell pools. Throughout, we emphasize the fundamental biology of cell-based therapies, critical features in the pathophysiology of spinal cord injury, and the strengths and limitations of each approach. We also highlight salient completed and ongoing clinical trials worldwide and the bidirectional translation of their findings. We then provide an overview of key adjunct strategies such as trophic factor support to optimize graft survival and differentiation, engineered biomaterials to provide a support scaffold, electrical fields to stimulate migration, and novel approaches to degrade the glial scar. We also discuss important considerations when initiating a clinical trial for a cell therapy such as the logistics of clinical-grade cell line scale-up, cell storage and transportation, and the delivery of cells into humans. We conclude with an outlook on the future of cell-based treatments for SCI and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher S. Ahuja
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of SurgeryUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Institute of Medical ScienceUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Department of Genetics and DevelopmentKrembil Research Institute, UHNTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Andrea Mothe
- Department of Genetics and DevelopmentKrembil Research Institute, UHNTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Mohamad Khazaei
- Department of Genetics and DevelopmentKrembil Research Institute, UHNTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Jetan H. Badhiwala
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of SurgeryUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Emily A. Gilbert
- Division of Anatomy, Department of SurgeryUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Derek van der Kooy
- Department of Molecular GeneticsUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Cindi M. Morshead
- Institute of Medical ScienceUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Division of Anatomy, Department of SurgeryUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Charles Tator
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of SurgeryUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Institute of Medical ScienceUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Department of Genetics and DevelopmentKrembil Research Institute, UHNTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Michael G. Fehlings
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of SurgeryUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Institute of Medical ScienceUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Department of Genetics and DevelopmentKrembil Research Institute, UHNTorontoOntarioCanada
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14
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Masrori P, Van Damme P. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a clinical review. Eur J Neurol 2020; 27:1918-1929. [PMID: 32526057 PMCID: PMC7540334 DOI: 10.1111/ene.14393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 389] [Impact Index Per Article: 97.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder affecting primarily the motor system, but in which extra-motor manifestations are increasingly recognized. The loss of upper and lower motor neurons in the motor cortex, the brain stem nuclei and the anterior horn of the spinal cord gives rise to progressive muscle weakness and wasting. ALS often has a focal onset but subsequently spreads to different body regions, where failure of respiratory muscles typically limits survival to 2-5 years after disease onset. In up to 50% of cases, there are extra-motor manifestations such as changes in behaviour, executive dysfunction and language problems. In 10%-15% of patients, these problems are severe enough to meet the clinical criteria of frontotemporal dementia (FTD). In 10% of ALS patients, the family history suggests an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern. The remaining 90% have no affected family members and are classified as sporadic ALS. The causes of ALS appear to be heterogeneous and are only partially understood. To date, more than 20 genes have been associated with ALS. The most common genetic cause is a hexanucleotide repeat expansion in the C9orf72 gene, responsible for 30%-50% of familial ALS and 7% of sporadic ALS. These expansions are also a frequent cause of frontotemporal dementia, emphasizing the molecular overlap between ALS and FTD. To this day there is no cure or effective treatment for ALS and the cornerstone of treatment remains multidisciplinary care, including nutritional and respiratory support and symptom management. In this review, different aspects of ALS are discussed, including epidemiology, aetiology, pathogenesis, clinical features, differential diagnosis, investigations, treatment and future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Masrori
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Laboratory of Neurobiology, Center for Brain and Disease Research, VIB, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - P Van Damme
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Laboratory of Neurobiology, Center for Brain and Disease Research, VIB, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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15
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Disease-modifying therapies in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Neuropharmacology 2020; 167:107986. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.107986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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16
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Andrejew R, Glaser T, Oliveira-Giacomelli Á, Ribeiro D, Godoy M, Granato A, Ulrich H. Targeting Purinergic Signaling and Cell Therapy in Cardiovascular and Neurodegenerative Diseases. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1201:275-353. [PMID: 31898792 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-31206-0_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular purines exert several functions in physiological and pathophysiological mechanisms. ATP acts through P2 receptors as a neurotransmitter and neuromodulator and modulates heart contractility, while adenosine participates in neurotransmission, blood pressure, and many other mechanisms. Because of their capability to differentiate into mature cell types, they provide a unique therapeutic strategy for regenerating damaged tissue, such as in cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Purinergic signaling is pivotal for controlling stem cell differentiation and phenotype determination. Proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis of stem cells of various origins are regulated by purinergic receptors. In this chapter, we selected neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases with clinical trials using cell therapy and purinergic receptor targeting. We discuss these approaches as therapeutic alternatives to neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases. For instance, promising results were demonstrated in the utilization of mesenchymal stem cells and bone marrow mononuclear cells in vascular regeneration. Regarding neurodegenerative diseases, in general, P2X7 and A2A receptors mostly worsen the degenerative state. Stem cell-based therapy, mainly through mesenchymal and hematopoietic stem cells, showed promising results in improving symptoms caused by neurodegeneration. We propose that purinergic receptor activity regulation combined with stem cells could enhance proliferative and differentiation rates as well as cell engraftment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Andrejew
- Neuroscience Laboratory, Institute of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Talita Glaser
- Neuroscience Laboratory, Institute of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ágatha Oliveira-Giacomelli
- Neuroscience Laboratory, Institute of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Deidiane Ribeiro
- Neuroscience Laboratory, Institute of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariana Godoy
- Neuroscience Laboratory, Institute of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Institute of Biophysics Carlos Chagas Filho, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Alessandro Granato
- Neuroscience Laboratory, Institute of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Henning Ulrich
- Neuroscience Laboratory, Institute of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Zhu Q, Lu P. Stem Cell Transplantation for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1266:71-97. [PMID: 33105496 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-15-4370-8_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a motor neuronal degeneration disease, in which the death of motor neurons causes lost control of voluntary muscles. The consequence is weakness of muscles with a wide range of disabilities and eventually death. Most patients died within 5 years after diagnosis, and there is no cure for this devastating neurodegenerative disease up to date. Stem cells, including non-neural stem cells and neural stem cells (NSCs) or neural progenitor cells (NPCs), are very attractive cell sources for potential neuroprotection and motor neuron replacement therapy which bases on the idea that transplant-derived and newly differentiated motor neurons can replace lost motor neurons to re-establish voluntary motor control of muscles in ALS. Our recent studies show that transplanted NSCs or NPCs not only survive well in injured spinal cord, but also function as neuronal relays to receive regenerated host axonal connection and extend their own axons to host for connectivity, including motor axons in ventral root. This reciprocal connection between host neurons and transplanted neurons provides a strong rationale for neuronal replacement therapy for ALS to re-establish voluntary motor control of muscles. In addition, a variety of new stem cell resources and the new methodologies to generate NSCs or motor neuron-specific progenitor cells have been discovered and developed. Together, it provides the basis for motor neuron replacement therapy with NSCs or NPCs in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Zhu
- Ludwig Institute, University of California - San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Paul Lu
- Veterans Administration San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA. .,Department of Neurosciences, University of California - San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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18
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Goutman SA, Savelieff MG, Sakowski SA, Feldman EL. Stem cell treatments for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a critical overview of early phase trials. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2019; 28:525-543. [PMID: 31189354 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2019.1627324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease of cortical, brainstem, and spinal motor neurons; it causes progressive muscle weakness and atrophy, respiratory failure, and death. No currently available treatment either stops or reverses this disease. Therapeutics to slow, stop, and reverse ALS are needed. Stem cells may be a viable solution to sustain and nurture diseased motor neurons. Several early-stage clinical trials have been launched to assess the potential of stem cells for ALS treatment. Areas covered: Expert opinion: AREAS COVERED This review covers the key advances from early phase clinical trials of stem cell therapy for ALS and identifies promising avenues and key challenges. EXPERT OPINION Clinical trials in humans are still in the nascent stages of development. It will be critical to ensure that powered, well-controlled trials are conducted, that optimal treatment windows are identified, and that the ideal cell type, cell dose, and delivery site and method are determined. Several trials have used more invasive procedures, and ethical concerns of sham procedures on patients in the control arm and on their safety should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen A Goutman
- a Department of Neurology , University of Michigan , Ann Arbor , MI , USA.,b Program for Neurology Research & Discovery , University of Michigan , Ann Arbor , MI , USA
| | - Masha G Savelieff
- a Department of Neurology , University of Michigan , Ann Arbor , MI , USA.,b Program for Neurology Research & Discovery , University of Michigan , Ann Arbor , MI , USA
| | - Stacey A Sakowski
- a Department of Neurology , University of Michigan , Ann Arbor , MI , USA.,b Program for Neurology Research & Discovery , University of Michigan , Ann Arbor , MI , USA
| | - Eva L Feldman
- a Department of Neurology , University of Michigan , Ann Arbor , MI , USA.,b Program for Neurology Research & Discovery , University of Michigan , Ann Arbor , MI , USA
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19
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Neuroimaging and clinical trials with stem cells in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Present and future perspectives. RADIOLOGIA 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rxeng.2019.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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20
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Mesenchymal Stem Cells: A Potential Therapeutic Approach for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis? Stem Cells Int 2019; 2019:3675627. [PMID: 30956667 PMCID: PMC6431432 DOI: 10.1155/2019/3675627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Revised: 12/24/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the degeneration of both upper and lower motor neurons. Patients show both motor and extra-motor symptoms. A cure is not available at this time, and the disease leads to death within 3-5 years, mainly due to respiratory failure. Stem cell therapy is arising as a new promising approach for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. In particular, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) seem the most suitable type of stem cells, thanks to their demonstrated beneficial effects in different experimental models, to the easy availability, and to the lack of ethical problems. In this review, we focused on the studies involving ALS rodent models and clinical trials in order to understand the potential beneficial effects of MSC transplantation. In different ALS rodent models, the administration of MSCs induced a delay in disease progression and at least a partial recovery of the motor function. In addition, clinical trials evidenced the feasibility and safety of MSC transplantation in ALS patients, given that no major adverse events were recorded. However, only partial improvements were shown. For this reason, more studies and trials are needed to clarify the real effectiveness of MSC-based therapy in ALS.
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21
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Tollgate-based progression pathways of ALS patients. J Neurol 2019; 266:755-765. [PMID: 30684209 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-019-09199-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To capture ALS progression in arm, leg, speech, swallowing, and breathing segments using a disease-specific staging system, namely tollgate-based ALS staging system (TASS), where tollgates refer to a set of critical clinical events including having slight weakness in arms, needing a wheelchair, needing a feeding tube, etc. METHODS: We compiled a longitudinal dataset from medical records including free-text clinical notes of 514 ALS patients from Mayo Clinic, Rochester-MN. We derived tollgate-based progression pathways of patients up to a 1-year period starting from the first clinic visit. We conducted Kaplan-Meier analyses to estimate the probability of passing each tollgate over time for each functional segment. RESULTS At their first clinic visit, 93%, 77%, and 60% of patients displayed some level of limb, bulbar, and breathing weakness, respectively. The proportion of patients at milder tollgate levels (tollgate level < 2) was smaller for arm and leg segments (38% and 46%, respectively) compared to others (> 65%). Patients showed non-uniform TASS pathways, i.e., the likelihood of passing a tollgate differed based on the affected segments at the initial visit. For instance, stratified by impaired segments at the initial visit, patients with limb and breathing impairment were more likely (62%) to use bi-level positive airway pressure device in a year compared to those with bulbar and breathing impairment (26%). CONCLUSION Using TASS, clinicians can inform ALS patients about their individualized likelihood of having critical disabilities and assistive-device needs (e.g., being dependent on wheelchair/ventilation, needing walker/wheelchair or communication devices), and help them better prepare for future.
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22
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Neuroimaging and clinical trials with stem cells in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: present and future perspectives. RADIOLOGIA 2019; 61:183-190. [PMID: 30606510 DOI: 10.1016/j.rx.2018.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Revised: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 11/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a rare neurodegenerative disease with a rapid fatal course. The absence of effective treatments has led to new lines of research, some of which are based on stem cells. Surgical injection into the spinal cord, the most common route of administration of stem cells, has proven safe in trials to test the safety of the procedure. Nevertheless, challenges remain, such as determining the best route of administration or the way of checking the survival of the cells and their interaction with the therapeutic target. To date, the mission of neuroimaging techniques has been to detect lesions and complications in the spine and spinal cord, but neuroimaging also has the potential to supplant histologic study in analyzing the relations between the implanted cells and the therapeutic target, and as biomarkers of the disease, by measuring morphological and functional changes after treatment. These developments would increase the role of radiologists in the clinical management of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
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23
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Abstract
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is the second commonest cause of young onset dementia. Our understanding of FTD and its related syndromes has advanced significantly in recent years. Among the most prominent areas of progress is the overlap between FTD, MND, and other neurodegenerative conditions at a clinicopathologic and genetic level. In parallel major advances in neuroimaging techniques, the discovery of new genetic mutations as well as the development of potential biomarkers may serve to further expand knowledge of the biologic processes at play in FTD and may in turn propel research toward identifying curative and preventative pharmacologic therapies. The aim of this chapter is to discuss the clinical, pathologic, and genetic complexities of FTD and related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma M Devenney
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Rebekah M Ahmed
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - John R Hodges
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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24
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Nabavi SM, Arab L, Jarooghi N, Bolurieh T, Abbasi F, Mardpour S, Azimyian V, Moeininia F, Maroufizadeh S, Sanjari L, Hosseini SE, Aghdami N. Safety, Feasibility of Intravenous and Intrathecal Injection of Autologous Bone Marrow Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: An Open Label Phase I Clinical Trial. CELL JOURNAL 2018; 20:592-598. [PMID: 30124008 PMCID: PMC6099146 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2019.5370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2017] [Accepted: 12/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Objective Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most severe disorder within the spectrum of motor neuron diseases
(MND) that has no effective treatment and a progressively fatal outcome. We have conducted two clinical trials to assess the
safety and feasibility of intravenous (IV) and intrathecal (IT) injections of bone marrow derived mesenchymal stromal cells
(BM-MSCs) in patients with ALS.
Materials and Methods This is an interventional/experimental study. We enrolled 14 patients that met the following inclusion
criteria: definitive diagnosis of sporadic ALS, ALS Functional Rating Scale (ALS-FRS) ≥24, and ≥40% predicted forced vital
capacity (FVC). All patients underwent bone marrow (BM) aspiration to obtain an adequate sample for cell isolation and
culture. Patients in group 1 (n=6) received an IV and patients in group 2 (n=8) received an IT injection of the cell suspension. All
patients in both groups were followed at 24 hours and 2, 4, 6, and 12 months after the injection with ALS-FRS, FVC, laboratory
tests, check list of side effects and brain/spinal cord magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In each group, one patient was lost to
follow up one month after cell injection and one patient from IV group died due to severe respiratory insufficiency and infection.
Results During the follow up there were no reports of adverse events in terms of clinical and laboratory assessments.
In MRI, there was not any new abnormal finding. The ALS-FRS score and FVC percentage significantly reduced in all
patients from both groups.
Conclusion This study has shown that IV and IT transplantation of BM-derived stromal cells is safe and feasible (Registration
numbers: NCT01759797 and NCT01771640).
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Massood Nabavi
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Arab
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Neda Jarooghi
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tina Bolurieh
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Abbasi
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Soura Mardpour
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vajihe Azimyian
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Moeininia
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saman Maroufizadeh
- Department of Epidemiology and Reproductive Health, Reproductive Epidemiology Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Medicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Sanjari
- Intensive Care Unit, Mostafa Khomeini Hospital, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyedeh Esmat Hosseini
- Student Research Committee, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nasser Aghdami
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.Electronic Address:
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Tasnim N, De la Vega L, Anil Kumar S, Abelseth L, Alonzo M, Amereh M, Joddar B, Willerth SM. 3D Bioprinting Stem Cell Derived Tissues. Cell Mol Bioeng 2018; 11:219-240. [PMID: 31719887 PMCID: PMC6816617 DOI: 10.1007/s12195-018-0530-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cells offer tremendous promise for regenerative medicine as they can become a variety of cell types. They also continuously proliferate, providing a renewable source of cells. Recently, it has been found that 3D printing constructs using stem cells, can generate models representing healthy or diseased tissues, as well as substitutes for diseased and damaged tissues. Here, we review the current state of the field of 3D printing stem cell derived tissues. First, we cover 3D printing technologies and discuss the different types of stem cells used for tissue engineering applications. We then detail the properties required for the bioinks used when printing viable tissues from stem cells. We give relevant examples of such bioprinted tissues, including adipose tissue, blood vessels, bone, cardiac tissue, cartilage, heart valves, liver, muscle, neural tissue, and pancreas. Finally, we provide future directions for improving the current technologies, along with areas of focus for future work to translate these exciting technologies into clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nishat Tasnim
- Inspired Materials & Stem-Cell Based Tissue Engineering Laboratory (IMSTEL), Department of Metallurgical, Materials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas at El Paso, 500 W University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968 USA
- Border Biomedical Research Center, University of Texas at El Paso, 500 W University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968 USA
| | - Laura De la Vega
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, 3800 Finnerty Road, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2 Canada
- Border Biomedical Research Center, University of Texas at El Paso, 500 W University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968 USA
| | - Shweta Anil Kumar
- Inspired Materials & Stem-Cell Based Tissue Engineering Laboratory (IMSTEL), Department of Metallurgical, Materials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas at El Paso, 500 W University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968 USA
- Border Biomedical Research Center, University of Texas at El Paso, 500 W University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968 USA
| | - Laila Abelseth
- Biomedical Engineering Program, University of Victoria, 3800 Finnerty Road, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2 Canada
- Border Biomedical Research Center, University of Texas at El Paso, 500 W University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968 USA
| | - Matthew Alonzo
- Inspired Materials & Stem-Cell Based Tissue Engineering Laboratory (IMSTEL), Department of Metallurgical, Materials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas at El Paso, 500 W University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968 USA
- Border Biomedical Research Center, University of Texas at El Paso, 500 W University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968 USA
| | - Meitham Amereh
- Faculty of Engineering, University of British Columbia-Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, Canada
- Border Biomedical Research Center, University of Texas at El Paso, 500 W University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968 USA
| | - Binata Joddar
- Inspired Materials & Stem-Cell Based Tissue Engineering Laboratory (IMSTEL), Department of Metallurgical, Materials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas at El Paso, 500 W University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968 USA
- Border Biomedical Research Center, University of Texas at El Paso, 500 W University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968 USA
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, 3800 Finnerty Road, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2 Canada
| | - Stephanie M. Willerth
- Biomedical Engineering Program, University of Victoria, 3800 Finnerty Road, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2 Canada
- Border Biomedical Research Center, University of Texas at El Paso, 500 W University Avenue, El Paso, TX 79968 USA
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, 3800 Finnerty Road, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2 Canada
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries, University of British Columbia, 818 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9 Canada
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Ciervo Y, Ning K, Jun X, Shaw PJ, Mead RJ. Advances, challenges and future directions for stem cell therapy in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Mol Neurodegener 2017; 12:85. [PMID: 29132389 PMCID: PMC5683324 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-017-0227-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rapidly progressive neurodegenerative condition where loss of motor neurons within the brain and spinal cord leads to muscle atrophy, weakness, paralysis and ultimately death within 3–5 years from onset of symptoms. The specific molecular mechanisms underlying the disease pathology are not fully understood and neuroprotective treatment options are minimally effective. In recent years, stem cell transplantation as a new therapy for ALS patients has been extensively investigated, becoming an intense and debated field of study. In several preclinical studies using the SOD1G93A mouse model of ALS, stem cells were demonstrated to be neuroprotective, effectively delayed disease onset and extended survival. Despite substantial improvements in stem cell technology and promising results in preclinical studies, several questions still remain unanswered, such as the identification of the most suitable and beneficial cell source, cell dose, route of delivery and therapeutic mechanisms. This review will cover publications in this field and comprehensively discuss advances, challenges and future direction regarding the therapeutic potential of stem cells in ALS, with a focus on mesenchymal stem cells. In summary, given their high proliferation activity, immunomodulation, multi-differentiation potential, and the capacity to secrete neuroprotective factors, adult mesenchymal stem cells represent a promising candidate for clinical translation. However, technical hurdles such as optimal dose, differentiation state, route of administration, and the underlying potential therapeutic mechanisms still need to be assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuri Ciervo
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health, University of Sheffield, 385a Glossop Rd S10 2HQ, Sheffield, UK.,Tongji University School of Medicine, 1239 Siping Rd, Yangpu Qu, Shanghai, China
| | - Ke Ning
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health, University of Sheffield, 385a Glossop Rd S10 2HQ, Sheffield, UK.,Tongji University School of Medicine, 1239 Siping Rd, Yangpu Qu, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu Jun
- Tongji University School of Medicine, 1239 Siping Rd, Yangpu Qu, Shanghai, China
| | - Pamela J Shaw
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health, University of Sheffield, 385a Glossop Rd S10 2HQ, Sheffield, UK
| | - Richard J Mead
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health, University of Sheffield, 385a Glossop Rd S10 2HQ, Sheffield, UK.
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27
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Tang BL. The use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) therapy – a perspective on cell biological mechanisms. Rev Neurosci 2017; 28:725-738. [DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2017-0018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
AbstractRecent clinical trials of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) transplantation have demonstrated procedural safety and clinical proof of principle with a modest indication of benefit in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). While replacement therapy remained unrealistic, the clinical efficacy of this therapeutic option could be potentially enhanced if we could better decipher the mechanisms underlying some of the beneficial effects of transplanted cells, and work toward augmenting or combining these in a strategic manner. Novel ways whereby MSCs could act in modifying disease progression should also be explored. In this review, I discuss the known, emerging and postulated mechanisms of action underlying effects that transplanted MSCs may exert to promote motor neuron survival and/or to encourage regeneration in ALS. I shall also speculate on how transplanted cells may alter the diseased environment so as to minimize non-neuron cell autonomous damages by immune cells and astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bor Luen Tang
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Health System, Singapore
- NUS Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Medical Drive, Singapore 117597, Singapore
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Xeno-Free Strategies for Safe Human Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cell Expansion: Supplements and Coatings. Stem Cells Int 2017; 2017:6597815. [PMID: 29158740 PMCID: PMC5660800 DOI: 10.1155/2017/6597815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (hMSCs) have generated great interest in regenerative medicine mainly due to their multidifferentiation potential and immunomodulatory role. Although hMSC can be obtained from different tissues, the number of available cells is always low for clinical applications, thus requiring in vitro expansion. Most of the current protocols for hMSC expansion make use of fetal bovine serum (FBS) as a nutrient-rich supplement. However, regulatory guidelines encourage novel xeno-free alternatives to define safer and standardized protocols for hMSC expansion that preserve their intrinsic therapeutic potential. Since hMSCs are adherent cells, the attachment surface and cell-adhesive components also play a crucial role on their successful expansion. This review focuses on the advantages/disadvantages of FBS-free media and surfaces/coatings that avoid the use of animal serum, overcoming ethical issues and improving the expansion of hMSC for clinical applications in a safe and reproducible way.
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Czarzasta J, Habich A, Siwek T, Czapliński A, Maksymowicz W, Wojtkiewicz J. Stem cells for ALS: An overview of possible therapeutic approaches. Int J Dev Neurosci 2017; 57:46-55. [PMID: 28088365 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2017.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Revised: 01/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an unusual, fatal, neurodegenerative disorder leading to the loss of motor neurons. After diagnosis, the average lifespan ranges from 3 to 5 years, and death usually results from respiratory failure. Although the pathogenesis of ALS remains unclear, multiple factors are thought to contribute to the progression of ALS, such as network interactions between genes, environmental exposure, impaired molecular pathways and many others. The neuroprotective properties of neural stem cells (NSCs) and the paracrine signaling of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been examined in multiple pre-clinical trials of ALS with promising results. The data from these initial trials indicate a reduction in the rate of disease progression. The mechanism through which stem cells achieve this reduction is of major interest. Here, we review the to-date pre-clinical and clinical therapeutic approaches employing stem cells, and discuss the most promising ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Czarzasta
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland.
| | - Aleksandra Habich
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Tomasz Siwek
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Adam Czapliński
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland; Neurocentrum Bellevue, Neurology, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Wojciech Maksymowicz
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Joanna Wojtkiewicz
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland; Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland; Foundation for nerve cells regeneration, Olsztyn, Poland
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Reed-Maldonado AB, Lue TF. The Current Status of Stem-Cell Therapy in Erectile Dysfunction: A Review. World J Mens Health 2016; 34:155-164. [PMID: 28053944 PMCID: PMC5209555 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.2016.34.3.155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2016] [Revised: 07/18/2016] [Accepted: 08/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that are capable of renewal and repair of tissue due to their capacity for division and differentiation. The purpose of this review is to describe recent advances in the use of stem cell (SC) therapy for male erectile dysfunction (ED). We performed a MEDLINE database search of all relevant articles regarding the use of SCs for ED. We present a concise summary of the scientific principles behind the usage of SC for ED. We discuss the different types of SCs, delivery methods, current pre-clinical literature, and published clinical trials. Four clinical trials employing SC for ED have been published. These articles are summarized in this review. All four report improvements in ED after SC therapy. SC therapy remains under investigation for the treatment of ED. It is reassuring that clinical trials thus far have reported positive effects on erectile function and few adverse events. Safety and methodical concerns about SC acquisition, preparation and delivery remain and require continued investigation prior to wide-spread application of these methods.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tom F Lue
- Department of Urology, University of California San Francisco, CA, USA
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31
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Abdul Wahid SF, Law ZK, Ismail NA, Azman Ali R, Lai NM. Cell-based therapies for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/motor neuron disease. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2016; 11:CD011742. [PMID: 27822919 PMCID: PMC6464737 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011742.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which is also known as motor neuron disease (MND) is a fatal disease associated with rapidly progressive disability, for which no definitive treatment as yet exists. Current treatment regimens largely focus on relieving symptoms to improve the quality of life of those affected. Based on data from preclinical studies, cell-based therapy is a promising treatment for ALS/MND. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of cell-based therapy for people with ALS/MND, compared with placebo or no additional treatment. SEARCH METHODS On 21 June 2016, we searched the Cochrane Neuromuscular Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and Embase. We also searched two clinical trials' registries for ongoing or unpublished studies. SELECTION CRITERIA We planned to include randomised controlled trials (RCTs), quasi-RCTs and cluster RCTs that assigned people with ALS/MND to receive cell-based therapy versus a placebo or no additional treatment. Co-interventions were allowable, provided that they were given to each group equally. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We followed standard Cochrane methodology. MAIN RESULTS No studies were eligible for inclusion in the review. We identified four ongoing trials. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Currently, there is a lack of high-quality evidence to guide practice on the use of cell-based therapy to treat ALS/MND.We need large, prospective RCTs to establish the efficacy of cellular therapy and to determine patient-, disease- and cell treatment-related factors that may influence the outcome of cell-based therapy. The major goals of future research should be to determine the appropriate cell source, phenotype, dose, and route of delivery, as these will be key elements in designing an optimal cell-based therapy programme for people with ALS/MND. Future research should also explore novel treatment strategies, including combinations of cellular therapy and standard or novel neuroprotective agents, to find the best possible approach to prevent or reverse the neurological deficit in ALS/MND, and to prolong survival in this debilitating and fatal condition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zhe Kang Law
- Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical CentreDepartment of MedicineJalan Yaacob LatifBandar Tun RazakKuala LumpurMalaysia56000
| | - Nor Azimah Ismail
- Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical CentreCell Therapy CenterJalan Yaacob LatifKuala LumpurMalaysia56000
| | - Raymond Azman Ali
- Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical CentreNeurology Unit, Department of MedicineJalan Yaacob LatifBandar Tun RazakKuala LumpurMalaysia56000
| | - Nai Ming Lai
- Taylor's UniversitySchool of MedicineSubang JayaMalaysia
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Shakhbazau A, Potapnev M. Autologous mesenchymal stromal cells as a therapeutic in ALS and epilepsy patients: Treatment modalities and ex vivo neural differentiation. Cytotherapy 2016; 18:1245-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2016.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Revised: 05/07/2016] [Accepted: 06/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Increased Understanding of Stem Cell Behavior in Neurodegenerative and Neuromuscular Disorders by Use of Noninvasive Cell Imaging. Stem Cells Int 2016; 2016:6235687. [PMID: 26997958 PMCID: PMC4779824 DOI: 10.1155/2016/6235687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2015] [Revised: 01/07/2016] [Accepted: 01/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous neurodegenerative and neuromuscular disorders are associated with cell-specific depletion in the human body. This imbalance in tissue homeostasis is in healthy individuals repaired by the presence of endogenous stem cells that can replace the lost cell type. However, in most disorders, a genetic origin or limited presence or exhaustion of stem cells impairs correct cell replacement. During the last 30 years, methods to readily isolate and expand stem cells have been developed and this resulted in a major change in the regenerative medicine field as it generates sufficient amount of cells for human transplantation applications. Furthermore, stem cells have been shown to release cytokines with beneficial effects for several diseases. At present however, clinical stem cell transplantations studies are struggling to demonstrate clinical efficacy despite promising preclinical results. Therefore, to allow stem cell therapy to achieve its full potential, more insight in their in vivo behavior has to be achieved. Different methods to noninvasively monitor these cells have been developed and are discussed. In some cases, stem cell monitoring even reached the clinical setting. We anticipate that by further exploring these imaging possibilities and unraveling their in vivo behavior further improvement in stem cell transplantations will be achieved.
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Nafissi S, Kazemi H, Tiraihi T, Beladi-Moghadam N, Faghihzadeh S, Faghihzadeh E, Yadegarynia D, Sadeghi M, Chamani-Tabriz L, Khanfakhraei A, Taheri T. Intraspinal delivery of bone marrow stromal cell-derived neural stem cells in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A safety and feasibility study. J Neurol Sci 2016; 362:174-81. [PMID: 26944143 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2016.01.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Revised: 01/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stem cells have been used in several studies with different methodologies to treat patients with ALS. METHODS In this safety and feasibility study, 11 patients with definite or probable ALS according to El Escorial criteria were selected. 3 patients were excluded due to inadequate bone marrow or safety measures after acquisition of bone marrow. Bone marrow stromal cell-derived neural stem cells were injected in C7-T1 spinal cord under general anesthesia. Patients were followed for 12months after injection with manual muscle testing, ALSFRS-R, quality of life changes, pulmonary function test and electromyography. RESULTS None of the patients had perioperative mortality or major morbidity. One patient had temporary deterioration in lower extremities after injection which improved after a few weeks. In the 12months post-injection, only one patient died due to pulmonary embolism. From the remaining 7 patients, all had a stable course after 4months and 5 were stable for the first 8months post-injection and deteriorated afterwards. DISCUSSION In this study, intraspinal injection of bone marrow derived neural stem cells appears to be safe. Patients experienced a temporary stabilization for the first few months post-injection and then gradually deteriorated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahriar Nafissi
- Shefa Neuroscience Research Center, Khatam-Alanbia Hospital, Tehran, Iran; Iranian Center of Neurological Research, Department of Neurology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hadi Kazemi
- Shefa Neuroscience Research Center, Khatam-Alanbia Hospital, Tehran, Iran; Faculty of Medicine, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Taki Tiraihi
- Faculty of Medical Science, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nahid Beladi-Moghadam
- Department of Neurology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Soghrat Faghihzadeh
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Science, Zanjan, Iran
| | | | - Davoud Yadegarynia
- Department of Infectious Disease, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mostafa Sadeghi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leili Chamani-Tabriz
- Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abdollah Khanfakhraei
- Department of Spinal Cord Injury, Shefa Neuroscience Research Center, Khatam-Alanbia Hospital, Tehran, Iran
| | - Taher Taheri
- Department of Spinal Cord Injury, Shefa Neuroscience Research Center, Khatam-Alanbia Hospital, Tehran, Iran
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Mazzini L, Vescovi A, Cantello R, Gelati M, Vercelli A. Stem cells therapy for ALS. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2016; 16:187-99. [DOI: 10.1517/14712598.2016.1116516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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36
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Stem Cells for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Transl Neurosci 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4899-7654-3_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
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37
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Mutant SOD1 mediated pathogenesis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Gene 2015; 577:109-18. [PMID: 26657039 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2015.11.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2015] [Revised: 11/27/2015] [Accepted: 11/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neural disorder that causes death of the motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord; this affects the voluntary muscles and gradually leads to paralysis of the whole body. Most ALS cases are sporadic, though about 5-10% are familial. ALS is caused by multiple factors including mutation in any one of a number of specific genes, one of the most frequently affected is superoxide dismutase (SOD) 1. Alterations in SOD 1 have been linked with several variants of familial ALS. SOD 1 is a powerful antioxidant enzyme that protects cells from the damaging effects of superoxide radicals. The enzyme binds both copper and zinc ions that are directly involved in the deactivation of toxic superoxide radicals. Mutated SOD1 gene can acquire both gain and loss of function mutations. The most commonly identified mutations in SOD1 that affect protein activity are D90A, A4V and G93A. Deleterious mutations have been shown to modify SOD1 activity, which leads to the accumulation of highly toxic hydroxyl radicals. Accumulation of these free radicals causes degradation of both nuclear and mitochondrial DNA and protein misfolding, features which can be used as pathological indicators associated with ALS. Numerous clinical trials have been carried out over last few years with limited success. In some patients advanced techniques like gene and stem cell therapy have been trialed. However no definitive treatment option can provide a cure and currently ALS is managed by drugs and other supportive therapies. Consequently there is a need to identify new approaches for treatment of this ultimately fatal disease.
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Mao Z, Zhang S, Chen H. Stem cell therapy for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. CELL REGENERATION 2015; 4:11. [PMID: 26594318 PMCID: PMC4653876 DOI: 10.1186/s13619-015-0026-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/21/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of motor neurons. Currently, no effective therapy is available to treat ALS, except for Riluzole, which has only limited clinical benefits. Stem-cell-based therapy has been intensively and extensively studied as a potential novel treatment strategy for ALS and has been shown to be effective, at least to some extent. In this article, we will review the current state of research on the use of stem cell therapy in the treatment of ALS and discuss the most promising stem cells for the treatment of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhijuan Mao
- Department of Neurology of Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Suming Zhang
- Department of Neurology of Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Department of Rehabilitation of Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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39
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Orsini M, Oliveira AB, Nascimento OJ, Reis CHM, Leite MAA, de Souza JA, Pupe C, de Souza OG, Bastos VH, de Freitas MR, Teixeira S, Bruno C, Davidovich E, Smidt B. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: New Perpectives and Update. Neurol Int 2015; 7:5885. [PMID: 26487927 PMCID: PMC4591493 DOI: 10.4081/ni.2015.5885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2015] [Accepted: 06/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Charcot's disease or Lou Gehrig's disease, is a term used to cover the spetrum of syndromes caracterized by progressive degeneration of motor neurons, a paralytic disorder caused by motor neuron degeneration. Currently, there are approximately 25,000 patients with ALS in the USA, with an average age of onset of 55 years. The incidence and prevalence of ALS are 1-2 and 4-6 per 100,000 each year, respectively, with a lifetime ALS risk of 1/600 to 1/1000. It causes progressive and cumulative physical disabilities, and leads to eventual death due to respiratory muscle failure. ALS is diverse in its presentation, course, and progression. We do not yet fully understand the causes of the disease, nor the mechanisms for its progression; thus, we lack effective means for treating this disease. In this chapter, we will discuss the diagnosis, treatment, and how to cope with impaired function and end of life based on of our experience, guidelines, and clinical trials. Nowadays ALS seems to be a more complex disease than it did two decades - or even one decade - ago, but new insights have been plentiful. Clinical trials should be seen more as experiments on pathogenic mechanisms. A medication or combination of medications that targets more than one pathogenic pathway may slow disease progression in an additive or synergistic fashion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Orsini
- Neurology Department, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Programa de Mestrado em Ciências da Reabiitação – UNISUAM, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Acary Bulle Oliveira
- Neurology Department, Universidade Federal de São Paulo – UNIFESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Jano Alves de Souza
- Neurology Department, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Camila Pupe
- Neurology Department, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Victor Hugo Bastos
- Neuroscience Department, Universidade Federal do Piaiu, Parnaiba, Brazil
| | | | - Silmar Teixeira
- Neuroscience Department, Universidade Federal do Piaiu, Parnaiba, Brazil
| | - Carlos Bruno
- Neurology Department, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Davidovich
- Neurology Department, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Benny Smidt
- Neurology Department, Universidade Federal de São Paulo – UNIFESP, São Paulo, Brazil
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Rushkevich YN, Kosmacheva SM, Zabrodets GV, Ignatenko SI, Goncharova NV, Severin IN, Likhachev SA, Potapnev MP. The Use of Autologous Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Cell Therapy of Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis in Belarus. Bull Exp Biol Med 2015; 159:576-81. [PMID: 26395626 DOI: 10.1007/s10517-015-3017-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
We studied a new method of treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis with autologous mesenchymal stem cells. Autologous mesenchymal stem cells were injected intravenously (intact cells) or via lumbar puncture (cells committed to neuronal differentiation). Evaluation of the results of cell therapy after 12-month follow-up revealed slowing down of the disease progression in 10 patients in comparison with the control group consisting of 15 patients. The cell therapy was safe for the patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu N Rushkevich
- Republican Research-and-Practical Center of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Minsk, Belarus.
| | - S M Kosmacheva
- Republican Research-and-Practical Center of Transfusion and Medical Biotechnologies, Minsk, Belarus
| | - G V Zabrodets
- Republican Research-and-Practical Center of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Minsk, Belarus
| | - S I Ignatenko
- Republican Research-and-Practical Center of Transfusion and Medical Biotechnologies, Minsk, Belarus
| | - N V Goncharova
- Republican Research-and-Practical Center of Transfusion and Medical Biotechnologies, Minsk, Belarus
| | - I N Severin
- Republican Research-and-Practical Center of Transfusion and Medical Biotechnologies, Minsk, Belarus
| | - S A Likhachev
- Republican Research-and-Practical Center of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Minsk, Belarus
| | - M P Potapnev
- Belorussian State Medical University, Minsk, Belarus
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Intervention Effect of Electroacupuncture Combined with EPCs Transplantation on the Mice in Aging Model. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2015; 2015:972749. [PMID: 26379754 PMCID: PMC4562170 DOI: 10.1155/2015/972749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2015] [Revised: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 07/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The results of this experiment suggested that electroacupuncture promotes the endothelialization of liver endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) for mice in D-gal model and improves the repair of vascular endothelial function, as well as increasing the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in liver tissue fluorescence and KL protein levels. Also, it reduces the malondialdehyde (MDA) activity and delays vascular aging and even overall aging. Results showed that the in vivo fluorescence intensity for D-gal EA group was significantly lower than that of D-gal group, P < 0.05; VEGF fluorescence expression in liver tissue for D-gal EA group was significantly higher than that for D-gal group, P < 0.05; KL protein content in liver tissue for D-gal EA group was significantly higher than that for D-gal group, P < 0.05; MDA activity for D-gal EA group was significantly lower than that for D-gal group, P < 0.05.
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Lewis CM, Suzuki M. Therapeutic applications of mesenchymal stem cells for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Stem Cell Res Ther 2015; 5:32. [PMID: 25157751 PMCID: PMC4035799 DOI: 10.1186/scrt421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease affecting the neuromuscular system and does not have a known singular cause. Genetic mutations, extracellular factors, non-neuronal support cells, and the immune system have all been shown to play varied roles in clinical and pathological disease progression. The therapeutic plasticity of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) may be well matched to this complex disease pathology, making MSCs strong candidates for cellular therapy in ALS. In this review, we summarize a variety of explored mechanisms by which MSCs play a role in ALS progression, including neuronal and non-neuronal cell replacement, trophic factor delivery, and modulation of the immune system. Currently relevant techniques for applying MSC therapy in ALS are discussed, focusing in particular on delivery route and cell source. We include examples from in vitro, preclinical, and clinical investigations to elucidate the remaining progress that must be made to understand and apply MSCs as a treatment for ALS.
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44
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Kim HY, Kim H, Oh KW, Oh SI, Koh SH, Baik W, Noh MY, Kim KS, Kim SH. Biological markers of mesenchymal stromal cells as predictors of response to autologous stem cell transplantation in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: an investigator-initiated trial and in vivo study. Stem Cells 2015; 32:2724-31. [PMID: 24966156 DOI: 10.1002/stem.1770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2013] [Revised: 05/06/2014] [Accepted: 05/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) can modify disease progression in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) model. However, there are currently no accurate biological markers for predicting the efficacy of autologous MSC transplants in ALS patients. This open-label, single-arm, investigator-initiated clinical study was designed to identify markers of MSCs that could be used as potential predictors of response to autologous MSC therapy in patients with ALS. We enrolled 37 patients with ALS who received autologous MSCs via intrathecal injection in two monthly doses. After a 6-month follow-up period, the patients were categorized as responders and non-responders based on their scores on the revised ALS Functional Rating Scale (ALSFRS-R). Biological markers including β-fibroblast growth factor-2, stromal cell-derived factor-1α, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), insulin-like growth factor-1, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, angiogenin (ANG), interleukin (IL)-4, IL-10, and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) were measured in the MSC cultures and their levels were compared between the responders and nonresponders. To confirm the markers' predictive ability, MSCs isolated from one patient in each group were transplanted into the cisterna magna of mutant SOD1(G93A) transgenic mice to measure their lifespans, locomotor activity, and motor neuron numbers. The levels of VEGF, ANG, and TGF-β were significantly higher in responders than in nonresponders. In the mouse model, the recipients of responder MSCs had a significantly slower onset of symptoms and a significantly longer lifespan than the recipients of nonresponders or controls. Our data suggest that VEGF, ANG, and TGF-β levels in MSCs could be used as potential biological markers to predict the effectiveness of autologous MSC therapy and to identify those patients who could optimally benefit from MSC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Young Kim
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, South Korea
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45
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Devenney E, Vucic S, Hodges JR, Kiernan MC. Motor neuron disease-frontotemporal dementia: a clinical continuum. Expert Rev Neurother 2015; 15:509-22. [DOI: 10.1586/14737175.2015.1034108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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46
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Goutman SA, Chen KS, Feldman EL. Recent Advances and the Future of Stem Cell Therapies in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Neurotherapeutics 2015; 12:428-48. [PMID: 25776222 PMCID: PMC4404436 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-015-0339-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a progressive neurodegenerative disease of the motor neurons without a known cure. Based on the possibility of cellular neuroprotection and early preclinical results, stem cells have gained widespread enthusiasm as a potential treatment strategy. Preclinical models demonstrate a protective role of engrafted stem cells and provided the basis for human trials carried out using various types of stem cells, as well as a range of cell delivery methods. To date, no trial has demonstrated a clear therapeutic benefit; however, results remain encouraging and are the basis for ongoing studies. In addition, stem cell technology continues to improve, and induced pluripotent stem cells may offer additional therapeutic options in the future. Improved disease models and clinical trials will be essential in order to validate stem cells as a beneficial therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen A Goutman
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, F2647 UH South, SPC 5223, 1500 East Medical Center Drive, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5036, USA,
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Mariano ED, Teixeira MJ, Marie SKN, Lepski G. Adult stem cells in neural repair: Current options, limitations and perspectives. World J Stem Cells 2015; 7:477-482. [PMID: 25815131 PMCID: PMC4369503 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v7.i2.477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2014] [Revised: 10/22/2014] [Accepted: 11/03/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cells represent a promising step for the future of regenerative medicine. As they are able to differentiate into any cell type, tissue or organ, these cells are great candidates for treatments against the worst diseases that defy doctors and researchers around the world. Stem cells can be divided into three main groups: (1) embryonic stem cells; (2) fetal stem cells; and (3) adult stem cells. In terms of their capacity for proliferation, stem cells are also classified as totipotent, pluripotent or multipotent. Adult stem cells, also known as somatic cells, are found in various regions of the adult organism, such as bone marrow, skin, eyes, viscera and brain. They can differentiate into unipotent cells of the residing tissue, generally for the purpose of repair. These cells represent an excellent choice in regenerative medicine, every patient can be a donor of adult stem cells to provide a more customized and efficient therapy against various diseases, in other words, they allow the opportunity of autologous transplantation. But in order to start clinical trials and achieve great results, we need to understand how these cells interact with the host tissue, how they can manipulate or be manipulated by the microenvironment where they will be transplanted and for how long they can maintain their multipotent state to provide a full regeneration.
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Wang D, Zhang J. Electrophysiological functional recovery in a rat model of spinal cord hemisection injury following bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell transplantation under hypothermia. Neural Regen Res 2015; 7:749-55. [PMID: 25737697 PMCID: PMC4345656 DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-5374.2012.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2011] [Accepted: 02/24/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Following successful establishment of a rat model of spinal cord hemisection injury by resecting right spinal cord tissues, bone marrow stem cells were transplanted into the spinal cord lesions via the caudal vein while maintaining rectal temperature at 34 ± 0.5°C for 6 hours (mild hypothermia). Hematoxylin-eosin staining showed that astrocytes gathered around the injury site and formed scars at 4 weeks post-transplantation. Compared with rats transplanted with bone marrow stem cells under normal temperature, rats transplanted with bone marrow stem cells under hypothermia showed increased numbers of proliferating cells (bromodeoxyuridine-positive cells), better recovery of somatosensory-evoked and motor-evoked potentials, greater Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan locomotor rating scores, and an increased degree of angle in the incline plate test. These findings suggested that hypothermia combined with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells transplantation effectively promoted electrical conduction and nerve functional repair in a rat model of spinal cord hemisection injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Fourth Central Hospital, Tianjin 300140, China
| | - Jianjun Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Fourth Central Hospital, Tianjin 300140, China
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Zhao J, Chen N, Shen N, Zhao H, Wang D, Shi J, Wang Y, Cui X, Yan Z, Xue H. Transplantation of human umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cells to treat a rat model of traumatic brain injury. Neural Regen Res 2015; 7:741-8. [PMID: 25737696 PMCID: PMC4345655 DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-5374.2012.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2011] [Accepted: 02/04/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present study, human umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cells were injected into a rat model of traumatic brain injury via the tail vein. Results showed that 5-bromodeoxyuridine-labeled cells aggregated around the injury site, surviving up to 4 weeks post-transplantation. In addition, transplantation-related death did not occur, and neurological functions significantly improved. Histological detection revealed attenuated pathological injury in rat brain tissues following human umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cell transplantation. In addition, the number of apoptotic cells decreased. Immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization showed increased expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, nerve growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor, and vascular endothelial growth factor, along with increased microvessel density in surrounding areas of brain injury. Results demonstrated migration of transplanted human umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cells into the lesioned boundary zone of rats, as well as increased angiogenesis and expression of related neurotrophic factors in the lesioned boundary zone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjian Zhao
- Affiliated Hospital of Hebei United University, Tangshan 063000, Hebei Province, China
| | - Naiyao Chen
- Affiliated Hospital of Hebei United University, Tangshan 063000, Hebei Province, China
| | - Na Shen
- Affiliated Hospital of Hebei United University, Tangshan 063000, Hebei Province, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- Affiliated Hospital of Hebei United University, Tangshan 063000, Hebei Province, China ; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Food Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Commerce, Tianjin 300134, China
| | - Dali Wang
- Affiliated Hospital of Hebei United University, Tangshan 063000, Hebei Province, China
| | - Jun Shi
- Affiliated Hospital of Hebei United University, Tangshan 063000, Hebei Province, China
| | - Yang Wang
- College of Life Science, Hebei United University, Tangshan 063000, Hebei Province, China
| | - Xiufeng Cui
- Affiliated Hospital of Hebei United University, Tangshan 063000, Hebei Province, China
| | - Zhenyu Yan
- Affiliated Hospital of Hebei United University, Tangshan 063000, Hebei Province, China
| | - Hui Xue
- Affiliated Hospital of Hebei United University, Tangshan 063000, Hebei Province, China
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