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Freedman MS, Gnanapavan S, Booth RA, Calabresi PA, Khalil M, Kuhle J, Lycke J, Olsson T. Guidance for use of neurofilament light chain as a cerebrospinal fluid and blood biomarker in multiple sclerosis management. EBioMedicine 2024; 101:104970. [PMID: 38354532 PMCID: PMC10875256 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.104970] [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: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurofilament light chain (NfL) is a long-awaited blood biomarker that can provide clinically useful information about prognosis and therapeutic efficacy in multiple sclerosis (MS). There is now substantial evidence for this biomarker to be used alongside magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and clinical measures of disease progression as a decision-making tool for the management of patients with MS. Serum NfL (sNfL) has certain advantages over traditional measures of MS disease progression such as MRI because it is relatively noninvasive, inexpensive, and can be repeated frequently to monitor activity and treatment efficacy. sNfL levels can be monitored regularly in patients with MS to determine change from baseline and predict subclinical disease activity, relapse risk, and the development of gadolinium-enhancing (Gd+) lesions. sNfL does not replace MRI, which provides information related to spatial localisation and lesion stage. Laboratory platforms are starting to be made available for clinical application of sNfL in several countries. Further work is needed to resolve issues around comparisons across testing platforms (absolute values) and normalisation (reference ranges) in order to guide interpretation of the results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark S Freedman
- Department of Medicine (Neurology), University of Ottawa, and the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | - Ronald A Booth
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Ottawa, The Ottawa Hospital & Eastern Ontario Regional Laboratory Association, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter A Calabresi
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Michael Khalil
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Jens Kuhle
- Multiple Sclerosis Centre, Neurology, Departments of Head, Spine and Neuromedicine, Biomedicine and Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jan Lycke
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Tomas Olsson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Solna, Sweden
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Solís-Tarazona L, Raket LL, Cabello-Murgui J, Reddam S, Navarro-Quevedo S, Gil-Perotin S. Predictive value of individual serum neurofilament light chain levels in short-term disease activity in relapsing multiple sclerosis. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1354431. [PMID: 38426169 PMCID: PMC10903281 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1354431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The assessment of serum neurofilament light chain (sNFL) has emerged as a diagnostic and prognostic tool in monitoring multiple sclerosis (MS). However, the application of periodic measurement in daily practice remains unclear. Objective To evaluate the predictive value of individual sNFL levels in determining disease activity in patients with relapsing MS (RMS). Methods In this two-year prospective study, 129 RMS patients underwent quarterly sNFL assessments and annual MRI scans. The study analyzed the correlation between individual NFL levels and past, current, and future disease activity. Group-level Z-scores were employed as a comparative measure. Results Among the 37 participants, a total of 61 episodes of disease activity were observed. sNFL levels proved valuable in distinct ways; they were confirmatory of previous and current clinical and/or radiological activity and demonstrated a high negative predictive value for future 90 days activity. Interestingly, Z-scores marginally outperformed sNFL levels in terms of predictive accuracy, indicating the potential for alternative approaches in disease activity assessment. In our cohort, sNFL cut-offs of 10.8 pg./mL (sensitivity 27%, specificity 90%) and 14.3 pg./mL (sensitivity 15%, specificity 95%) correctly identified 7 and 4 out of 26 cases of radiological activity within 90 days, respectively, with 14 and 15% false negatives. When using lower cut-off values, individuals with sNFL levels below 5 pg/mL (with a sensitivity of 92%, specificity of 25%, and negative predictive value of 94%) were less likely to experience radiological activity within the next 3 months. Conclusion Individual sNFL levels may potentially confirm prior or current disease activity and predict short-term future radiological activity in RMS. These findings underscore its periodic measurement as a valuable tool in RMS management and decision-making, enhancing the precision of clinical evaluation in routine practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Solís-Tarazona
- Research Group in Immunotherapy and Biomodels for Autoimmunity, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Lars Lau Raket
- Clinical Memory Research Unit, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Javier Cabello-Murgui
- Research Group in Immunotherapy and Biomodels for Autoimmunity, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Salma Reddam
- Research Group in Immunotherapy and Biomodels for Autoimmunity, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Sara Gil-Perotin
- Research Group in Immunotherapy and Biomodels for Autoimmunity, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- Multiple Sclerosis Unit, Neurology, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- Consorcio Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red (CIBER), CB06/05/1131, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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Sen MK, Hossain MJ, Mahns DA, Brew BJ. Validity of serum neurofilament light chain as a prognostic biomarker of disease activity in multiple sclerosis. J Neurol 2023; 270:1908-1930. [PMID: 36520240 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-11507-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic demyelinating and neuroinflammatory disease of the human central nervous system with complex pathoetiology, heterogeneous presentations and an unpredictable course of disease progression. There remains an urgent need to identify and validate a biomarker that can reliably predict the initiation and progression of MS as well as identify patient responses to disease-modifying treatments/therapies (DMTs). Studies exploring biomarkers in MS and other neurodegenerative diseases currently focus mainly on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analyses, which are invasive and impractical to perform on a repeated basis. Recent studies, replacing CSF with peripheral blood samples, have revealed that the elevation of serum neurofilament light chain (sNfL) in the clinical stages of MS is, potentially, an ideal prognostic biomarker for predicting disease progression and for possibly guiding treatment decisions. However, there are unresolved factors (the definition of abnormal values of sNfL concentration, the standardisation of measurement and the amount of change in sNfL concentration that is significant) that are preventing its use as a biomarker in routine clinical practice for MS. This updated review critiques these recent findings and highlights areas for focussed work to facilitate the use of sNfL as a prognostic biomarker in MS management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monokesh K Sen
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- Peter Duncan Neuroscience Research Unit, St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, 2010, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Md Jakir Hossain
- School of Biomedical Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - David A Mahns
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Bruce J Brew
- Peter Duncan Neuroscience Research Unit, St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, 2010, Australia.
- School of Biomedical Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
- Department of Neurology, St Vincent's Hospital, Darlinghurst, 2010, Australia.
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Ning L, Wang B. Neurofilament light chain in blood as a diagnostic and predictive biomarker for multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0274565. [PMID: 36103562 PMCID: PMC9473405 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0274565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Neurofilament light chain (NfL) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a biomarker of multiple sclerosis (MS). However, CSF sampling is invasive and has limited the clinical application. With the development of highly sensitive single-molecule assay, the accurate quantification of the very low NfL levels in blood become feasible. As evidence being accumulated, we performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the diagnostic and predictive value of blood NfL in MS patients.
Methods
We performed literature search on PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and Cochrane Library from inception to May 31, 2022. The blood NfL differences between MS vs. controls, MS vs. clinically isolated syndrome (CIS), progressive MS (PMS) vs. relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), and MS in relapse vs. MS in remission were estimated by standard mean difference (SMD) and corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI). Pooled hazard ratio (HR) and 95%CI were calculated to predict time to reach Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score≥4.0 and to relapse.
Results
A total of 28 studies comprising 6545 MS patients and 2477 controls were eligible for meta-analysis of diagnosis value, and 5 studies with 4444 patients were synthesized in analysis of predictive value. Blood NfL levels were significantly higher in MS patients vs. age-matched controls (SMD = 0.64, 95%CI 0.44–0.85, P<0.001), vs. non-matched controls (SMD = 0.76, 95%CI 0.56–0.96, P<0.001) and vs. CIS patients (SMD = 0.30, 95%CI 0.18–0.42, P<0.001), in PMS vs. RRMS (SMD = 0.56, 95%CI 0.27–0.85, P<0.001), and in relapsed patients vs. remitted patients (SMD = 0.54, 95%CI 0.16–0.92, P = 0.005). Patients with high blood NfL levels had shorter time to reach EDSS score≥4.0 (HR = 2.36, 95%CI 1.32–4.21, P = 0.004) but similar time to relapse (HR = 1.32, 95%CI 0.90–1.93, P = 0.155) compared to those with low NfL levels.
Conclusion
As far as we know, this is the first meta-analysis evaluating the diagnosis and predictive value of blood NfL in MS. The present study indicates blood NfL may be a useful biomarker in diagnosing MS, distinguishing MS subtypes and predicting disease worsening in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangxia Ning
- Department of Neurology, Yuncheng Central Hospital, The Eighth Shanxi Medical University, Yuncheng, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Neurology, Yuncheng Central Hospital, The Eighth Shanxi Medical University, Yuncheng, China
- * E-mail:
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Pauwels A, Van Schependom J, Devolder L, Van Remoortel A, Nagels G, Bjerke M, D’hooghe MB. Plasma glial fibrillary acidic protein and neurofilament light chain in relation to disability worsening in multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler 2022; 28:1685-1696. [DOI: 10.1177/13524585221094224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Background: Predicting disability worsening in multiple sclerosis (MS) remains an important challenge. Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and neurofilament light chain (NfL) seem promising biomarkers. Studies investigating blood GFAP in relation to longitudinal outcome measures in MS are scarce. Objective: To compare plasma-GFAP (p-GFAP) and plasma-NfL (p-NfL) levels in relation to sustained disability worsening. Methods: We measured baseline p-GFAP and p-NfL in a prospective cohort of 115 individuals with MS and 30 matched controls, using Single Molecule Array (Simoa). Disability worsening was defined as an increase in at least one of three measures (Expanded Disability Status Scale, Timed 25-foot walk, 9-Hole Peg test), confirmed after 6 months and persistent upon data closure. Results: In a multivariable Cox proportional-hazards model, p-GFAP was not significantly associated with sustained disability worsening after 4.40 ± 0.82 years, while p-NfL (HR = 1.046, p = 0.001), EDSS (HR = 1.24, p = 0.039), and disease duration (HR = 1.048, p = 0.017) were. Area under the curve of ROC curves in relation to worsening was 0.61 for p-GFAP ( p = 0.031) and 0.63 for p-NfL ( p = 0.015). Kaplan–Meier curves showed similar patterns for both proteins. Conclusion: p-NfL emerged as a significant explanatory variable for worsening in Cox regression analysis, and p-GFAP did not. Both p-GFAP and p-NfL were related to worsening based on ROC curves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayla Pauwels
- Center for Neurosciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Jette, Belgium/Department of Neurology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Jette, Belgium/Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium/VIB Center for Microbiology, Leuven, Belgium/National Multiple Sclerosis Center Melsbroek, Melsbroek, Belgium
| | - Jeroen Van Schependom
- Center for Neurosciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Jette, Belgium/AIMS, Center for Neurosciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Jette, Belgium/ETRO, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Elsene, Belgium
| | - Lindsay Devolder
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium/VIB Center for Microbiology, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Guy Nagels
- Center for Neurosciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Jette, Belgium/Department of Neurology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Jette, Belgium/AIMS, Center for Neurosciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Jette, Belgium/St Edmund Hall, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Maria Bjerke
- Center for Neurosciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Jette, Belgium/Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Department of Clinical Biology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Jette, Belgium
| | - Marie B D’hooghe
- Center for Neurosciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Jette, Belgium/Department of Neurology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Jette, Belgium/National Multiple Sclerosis Center Melsbroek, Melsbroek, Belgium
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Biernacki T, Kokas Z, Sandi D, Füvesi J, Fricska-Nagy Z, Faragó P, Kincses TZ, Klivényi P, Bencsik K, Vécsei L. Emerging Biomarkers of Multiple Sclerosis in the Blood and the CSF: A Focus on Neurofilaments and Therapeutic Considerations. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063383. [PMID: 35328802 PMCID: PMC8951485 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is the most common immune-mediated chronic neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system (CNS) affecting young people. This is due to the permanent disability, cognitive impairment, and the enormous detrimental impact MS can exert on a patient's health-related quality of life. It is of great importance to recognise it in time and commence adequate treatment at an early stage. The currently used disease-modifying therapies (DMT) aim to reduce disease activity and thus halt disability development, which in current clinical practice are monitored by clinical and imaging parameters but not by biomarkers found in blood and/or the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Both clinical and radiological measures routinely used to monitor disease activity lack information on the fundamental pathophysiological features and mechanisms of MS. Furthermore, they lag behind the disease process itself. By the time a clinical relapse becomes evident or a new lesion appears on the MRI scan, potentially irreversible damage has already occurred in the CNS. In recent years, several biomarkers that previously have been linked to other neurological and immunological diseases have received increased attention in MS. Additionally, other novel, potential biomarkers with prognostic and diagnostic properties have been detected in the CSF and blood of MS patients. AREAS COVERED In this review, we summarise the most up-to-date knowledge and research conducted on the already known and most promising new biomarker candidates found in the CSF and blood of MS patients. DISCUSSION the current diagnostic criteria of MS relies on three pillars: MRI imaging, clinical events, and the presence of oligoclonal bands in the CSF (which was reinstated into the diagnostic criteria by the most recent revision). Even though the most recent McDonald criteria made the diagnosis of MS faster than the prior iteration, it is still not an infallible diagnostic toolset, especially at the very early stage of the clinically isolated syndrome. Together with the gold standard MRI and clinical measures, ancillary blood and CSF biomarkers may not just improve diagnostic accuracy and speed but very well may become agents to monitor therapeutic efficacy and make even more personalised treatment in MS a reality in the near future. The major disadvantage of these biomarkers in the past has been the need to obtain CSF to measure them. However, the recent advances in extremely sensitive immunoassays made their measurement possible from peripheral blood even when present only in minuscule concentrations. This should mark the beginning of a new biomarker research and utilisation era in MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamás Biernacki
- Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Centre, Department of Neurology, Faculty of General Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary; (T.B.); (Z.K.); (D.S.); (J.F.); (Z.F.-N.); (P.F.); (T.Z.K.); (P.K.); (K.B.)
| | - Zsófia Kokas
- Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Centre, Department of Neurology, Faculty of General Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary; (T.B.); (Z.K.); (D.S.); (J.F.); (Z.F.-N.); (P.F.); (T.Z.K.); (P.K.); (K.B.)
| | - Dániel Sandi
- Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Centre, Department of Neurology, Faculty of General Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary; (T.B.); (Z.K.); (D.S.); (J.F.); (Z.F.-N.); (P.F.); (T.Z.K.); (P.K.); (K.B.)
| | - Judit Füvesi
- Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Centre, Department of Neurology, Faculty of General Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary; (T.B.); (Z.K.); (D.S.); (J.F.); (Z.F.-N.); (P.F.); (T.Z.K.); (P.K.); (K.B.)
| | - Zsanett Fricska-Nagy
- Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Centre, Department of Neurology, Faculty of General Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary; (T.B.); (Z.K.); (D.S.); (J.F.); (Z.F.-N.); (P.F.); (T.Z.K.); (P.K.); (K.B.)
| | - Péter Faragó
- Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Centre, Department of Neurology, Faculty of General Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary; (T.B.); (Z.K.); (D.S.); (J.F.); (Z.F.-N.); (P.F.); (T.Z.K.); (P.K.); (K.B.)
| | - Tamás Zsigmond Kincses
- Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Centre, Department of Neurology, Faculty of General Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary; (T.B.); (Z.K.); (D.S.); (J.F.); (Z.F.-N.); (P.F.); (T.Z.K.); (P.K.); (K.B.)
- Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Centre, Department of Radiology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Péter Klivényi
- Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Centre, Department of Neurology, Faculty of General Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary; (T.B.); (Z.K.); (D.S.); (J.F.); (Z.F.-N.); (P.F.); (T.Z.K.); (P.K.); (K.B.)
| | - Krisztina Bencsik
- Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Centre, Department of Neurology, Faculty of General Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary; (T.B.); (Z.K.); (D.S.); (J.F.); (Z.F.-N.); (P.F.); (T.Z.K.); (P.K.); (K.B.)
| | - László Vécsei
- Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Centre, Department of Neurology, Faculty of General Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary; (T.B.); (Z.K.); (D.S.); (J.F.); (Z.F.-N.); (P.F.); (T.Z.K.); (P.K.); (K.B.)
- MTA-SZTE Neuroscience Research Group, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +36-62-545-356; Fax: +36-62-545-597
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Simone M, Palazzo C, Mastrapasqua M, Bollo L, Pompamea F, Gabellone A, Marzulli L, Giordano P, De Giacomo A, Frigeri A, Ruggieri M, Margari L. Serum Neurofilament Light Chain Levels and Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Antibodies in Pediatric Acquired Demyelinating Syndromes. Front Neurol 2021; 12:754518. [PMID: 34867740 PMCID: PMC8635987 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.754518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The relationship between serum neurofilament light chain (sNfL) and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody (MOG-Ab) status has not been yet investigated in children with the acquired demyelinating syndrome (ADS). Objective and Methods: The sNfL levels and MOG-Abs were measured by ultrasensitive single-molecule array and cell-based assay in a cohort of 37 children with ADS and negativity for serum anti-aquaporin 4 (AQP4) antibodies. The sNfL levels were compared in MOG-Ab+/MOG-Ab– and in two subgroups MOG-Ab+ with/without encephalopathy. Results: About 40% ADS resulted in MOG-Ab+. MOG-Ab+ were younger at sampling (median = 9.8; range = 2.17–17.5 vs. 14.7/9–17; p = 0.002) with lower frequency of cerebrospinal fluid oligoclonal bands positivity (27% vs. 70%; p = 0.013) compared to MOG-Ab–. About 53% of MOG-Ab+ presented encephalopathy at onset, 1/22 of MOG-Ab– (p = 0.0006). Higher sNfL levels (p = 0.0001) were found in MOG-Ab+ (median/range = 11.11/6.8–1,129) and MOG-Ab– (median/range = 11.6/4.3–788) compared to age-matched controls (median/range = 2.98/1–4.53), without significant difference. MOG-Ab+ with encephalopathy resulted significantly younger at sampling (median/range: 4.5/2.17–11.17 vs. 14.16/9.8–17.5; p = 0.004), had higher sNfL levels (median/range:75.24/9.1–1,129 vs. 10.22/6.83–50.53; p = 0.04), and showed a trend for higher MOG-Ab titer (0.28/0.04–0.69 vs. 0.05/0.04–0.28; p = 0.1) in comparison to those without encephalopathy. Discussion: We confirmed high sNfL levels in pediatric ADS independently from the MOG-Ab status. Encephalopathy at onset is associated more frequently with MOG Ab+ children with higher sNfL levels and MOG titer. These findings suggest a role of acute demyelination in association with axonal damage in the pathogenesis of encephalopathy in pediatric ADS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Simone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Claudia Palazzo
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Mariangela Mastrapasqua
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Luca Bollo
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Pompamea
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Gabellone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Marzulli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Paola Giordano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Andrea De Giacomo
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Antonio Frigeri
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Maddalena Ruggieri
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Margari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
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Jakimovski D, Dwyer MG, Bergsland N, Weinstock-Guttman B, Zivadinov R. Disease biomarkers in multiple sclerosis: current serum neurofilament light chain perspectives. Neurodegener Dis Manag 2021; 11:329-340. [PMID: 34196596 DOI: 10.2217/nmt-2020-0058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The continuous neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative pathology in multiple sclerosis (MS) results in irreversible accumulation of physical and cognitive disability. Reliable early detection of MS disease processes can aid in the diagnosis, monitoring and treatment management of MS patients. Recent assay technological advancements now allow reliable quantification of serum-based neurofilament light chain (sNfL) levels, which provide temporal information regarding the degree of neuroaxonal damage. The relationship and predictive value of sNfL with clinical and cognitive outcomes, other paraclinical measures and treatment response is reviewed. sNfL measurement is an emerging, noninvasive and disease-responsive MS biomarker that is currently utilized in research and clinical trial settings. Understanding sNfL confounders and further assay standardization will allow clinical implementation of this biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dejan Jakimovski
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center (BNAC), Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Michael G Dwyer
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center (BNAC), Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Niels Bergsland
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center (BNAC), Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA.,IRCCS, Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, Milan, 20148, Italy
| | - Bianca Weinstock-Guttman
- Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment & Research Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Robert Zivadinov
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center (BNAC), Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA.,Center for Biomedical Imaging at Clinical Translational Science Institute, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
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Ferreira-Atuesta C, Reyes S, Giovanonni G, Gnanapavan S. The Evolution of Neurofilament Light Chain in Multiple Sclerosis. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:642384. [PMID: 33889068 PMCID: PMC8055958 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.642384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune, inflammatory neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system characterized by demyelination and axonal damage. Diagnosis and prognosis are mainly assessed through clinical examination and neuroimaging. However, more sensitive biomarkers are needed to measure disease activity and guide treatment decisions in MS. Prompt and individualized management can reduce inflammatory activity and delay disease progression. Neurofilament Light chain (NfL), a neuron-specific cytoskeletal protein that is released into the extracellular fluid following axonal injury, has been identified as a biomarker of disease activity in MS. Measurement of NfL levels can capture the extent of neuroaxonal damage, especially in early stages of the disease. A growing body of evidence has shown that NfL in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum can be used as reliable indicators of prognosis and treatment response. More recently, NfL has been shown to facilitate individualized treatment decisions for individuals with MS. In this review, we discuss the characteristics that make NfL a highly informative biomarker and depict the available technologies used for its measurement. We further discuss the growing role of serum and CSF NfL in MS research and clinical settings. Finally, we address some of the current topics of debate regarding the use of NfL in clinical practice and examine the possible directions that this biomarker may take in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Ferreira-Atuesta
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States.,Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Saúl Reyes
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Bogotá, Colombia.,The Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gavin Giovanonni
- The Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Neurology, The Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sharmilee Gnanapavan
- The Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Neurology, The Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
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Allen CM, Mowry E, Tintore M, Evangelou N. Prognostication and contemporary management of clinically isolated syndrome. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2020; 92:jnnp-2020-323087. [PMID: 33361410 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2020-323087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) patients present with a single attack of inflammatory demyelination of the central nervous system. Recent advances in multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnostic criteria have expanded the number of CIS patients eligible for a diagnosis of MS at the onset of the disease, shrinking the prevalence of CIS. MS treatment options are rapidly expanding, which is driving the need to recognise MS at its earliest stages. In CIS patients, finding typical MS white matter lesions on the patient's MRI scan remains the most influential prognostic investigation for predicting subsequent diagnosis with MS. Additional imaging, cerebrospinal fluid and serum testing, information from the clinical history and genetic testing also contribute. For those subsequently diagnosed with MS, there is a wide spectrum of long-term clinical outcomes. Detailed assessment at the point of presentation with CIS provides fewer clues to calculate a personalised risk of long-term severe disability.Clinicians should select suitable CIS cases for steroid treatment to speed neurological recovery. Unfortunately, there are still no neuroprotection or remyelination strategies available. The use of MS disease modifying therapy for CIS varies among clinicians and national guidelines, suggesting a lack of robust evidence to guide practice. Clinicians should focus on confirming MS speedily and accurately with appropriate investigations. Diagnosis with CIS provides an opportune moment to promote a healthy lifestyle, in particular smoking cessation. Patients also need to understand the link between CIS and MS. This review provides clinicians an update on the contemporary evidence guiding prognostication and management of CIS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Martin Allen
- Department of Clinical Neurology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Ellen Mowry
- Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Mar Tintore
- Servei de Neurologia-Neuroimmunologia, Centre d'Esclerosi Múltiple de Catalunya, (Cemcat), Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
- Multiple Sclerosis Centre of Catalonia, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nikos Evangelou
- Department of Clinical Neurology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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