1
|
Barkhaus PE, Nandedkar SD, de Carvalho M, Swash M, Stålberg EV. Revisiting the compound muscle action potential (CMAP). Clin Neurophysiol Pract 2024; 9:176-200. [PMID: 38807704 PMCID: PMC11131082 DOI: 10.1016/j.cnp.2024.04.002] [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: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
The compound muscle action potential (CMAP) is among the first recorded waveforms in clinical neurography and one of the most common in clinical use. It is derived from the summated muscle fiber action potentials recorded from a surface electrode overlying the studied muscle following stimulation of the relevant motor nerve fibres innervating the muscle. Surface recorded motor unit potentials (SMUPs) are the fundamental units comprising the CMAP. Because it is considered a basic, if not banal signal, what it represents is often underappreciated. In this review we discuss current concepts in the anatomy and physiology of the CMAP. These have evolved with advances in instrumentation and digitization of signals, affecting its quantitation and measurement. It is important to understand the basic technical and biological factors influencing the CMAP. If these influences are not recognized, then a suboptimal recording may result. The object is to obtain a high quality CMAP recording that is reproducible, whether the study is done for clinical or research purposes. The initial sections cover the relevant CMAP anatomy and physiology, followed by how these principles are applied to CMAP changes in neuromuscular disorders. The concluding section is a brief overview of CMAP research where advances in recording systems and computer-based analysis programs have opened new research applications. One such example is motor unit number estimation (MUNE) that is now being used as a surrogate marker in monitoring chronic neurogenic processes such as motor neuron diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul E. Barkhaus
- Department of Neurology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI USA
| | - Sanjeev D. Nandedkar
- Department of Neurology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI USA
- Natus Medical Inc., Hopewell Junction, NY, USA
| | - Mamede de Carvalho
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular and Institute of Physiology, Centro de Estudos Egas Moniz, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, CHULN-Hospital de Santa Maria, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Michael Swash
- Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London UK
| | - Erik V. Stålberg
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mishra S, Nair KV, Shukla A. Delineation of molecular characteristics of congenital myasthenic syndromes in Indian families and review of literature. Clin Dysmorphol 2023; 32:162-167. [PMID: 37646703 DOI: 10.1097/mcd.0000000000000465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Congenital myasthenic syndromes (CMS) are rare, heterogeneous, and often treatable genetic disorders depending on the underlying molecular defect. We performed a detailed clinical evaluation of seven patients from five unrelated families. Exome sequencing was performed on five index patients. Clinically significant variants were identified in four CMS disease-causing genes: COLQ (3/7), CHRNE (2/7), DOK7 (1/7), and RAPSN (1/7). We identified two novel variants, c.930_933delCATG in DOK7 and c.1016_1032 + 2dup in CHRNE . A common pathogenic variant, c.955-2A>C, has been identified in COLQ -related CMS patients. Homozygosity mapping of this COLQ variant in patients from two unrelated families revealed that it was located in a common homozygous region of 3.2 Mb on chromosome 3 and was likely to be inherited from a common ancestor. Patients with COLQ variants had generalized muscle weakness, those with DOK7 and RAPSN variants had limb-girdle weakness, and those with CHRNE variants had predominant ocular weakness. Patients with COLQ and DOK7 variants showed improvement with salbutamol and CHRNE with pyridostigmine therapy. This study expands the mutational spectrum and adds a small but significant cohort of CMS patients from India. We also reviewed the literature to identify genetic subtypes of CMS in India.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Mishra
- Department of Medical Genetics, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Liao X, Wang Y, Lai X, Wang S. The role of Rapsyn in neuromuscular junction and congenital myasthenic syndrome. BIOMOLECULES & BIOMEDICINE 2023; 23:772-784. [PMID: 36815443 PMCID: PMC10494853 DOI: 10.17305/bb.2022.8641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
Rapsyn, an intracellular scaffolding protein associated with the postsynaptic membranes in the neuromuscular junction (NMJ), is critical for nicotinic acetylcholine receptor clustering and maintenance. Therefore, Rapsyn is essential to the NMJ formation and maintenance, and Rapsyn mutant is one of the reasons causing the pathogenies of congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMS). In addition, there is little research on Rapsyn in the central nervous system (CNS). In this review, the role of Rapsyn in the NMJ formation and the mutation of Rapsyn leading to CMS will be reviewed separately and sequentially. Finally, the potential function of Rapsyn is prospected.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xufeng Liao
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yingxing Wang
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xinsheng Lai
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Shunqi Wang
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yin Y, Cao J, Fan Y, Xu Y. COLQ-mutation congenital myasthenic syndrome in late adolescence: Case report and review of the literature. Heliyon 2023; 9:e19980. [PMID: 37809778 PMCID: PMC10559664 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Congenital myasthenia syndromes (CMS) are a heterogeneous group of hereditary disorders of the neuromuscular junction. The symptoms include fatigue, muscle weakness, ptosis, mastication or swallowing problem, respiratory distress. We present a 42-year-old male patient who was admitted with complaints of paroxysmal limb weakness for 25 years and got repeated apnea crisis due to using AchE inhibitors. We considered this patient to be COLQ-related CMS because of two types characteristics. One is the symptom will deteriorate or non-responsive after giving AchE inhibitors and the other is repeated compound action potentials may appear after one current stimulation. At last we confirmed the diagnosis by genetic testing. It is a rare CMS case caused by homozygous mutation in the COLQ gene which occurred at late adolescence. Our case demonstrates that for those serum-negative MG patients, CMS gene mutation screening should be considered, especially if the patient has an symptom onset of childhood and adolescence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yatao Yin
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Cao
- Department of Neurology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuanteng Fan
- Department of Neurology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Neurology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Öztürk S, Güleç A, Erdoğan M, Demir M, Canpolat M, Gümüş H, Çağlayan AO, Dündar M, Per H. Congenital Myasthenic Syndromes in Turkey: Clinical and Molecular Characterization of 16 Cases With Three Novel Mutations. Pediatr Neurol 2022; 136:43-49. [PMID: 36099689 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2022.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Congenital myasthenic syndromes (CMS) are composed of numerous hereditary disorders involving genetic mutations in proteins essential to the integrity of neuromuscular transmission. The symptoms of CMS vary according to the age at onset of symptoms, and the type and severity of muscle weakness. Effective treatment and genetic counseling depend upon the underlying pathogenic molecular mechanism and subtype of CMS. METHODS A retrospective and cross-sectional study was performed with 16 patients with a genetically confirmed diagnosis of CMS to share our experience with clinical symptoms, demographic data, genetic variants, and treatments applied. RESULTS Sixteen patients with a specific CMS genetic diagnosis (three novel mutations) were identified, including CHRNE (n = 7), DOK7 (n = 2), AGRN (n = 2), RAPSN (n = 1), CHRNA1 (n = 1), CHRNB1 (n = 1), CHAT (n = 1), and SCN4A (n = 1). Age at onset of symptoms ranged from the neonatal period to 12 years. Genetic diagnosis was confirmed between the ages of three months and 17 years. A significant delay was determined between the onset of symptoms and genetic diagnosis of the disease. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the importance of genetic testing in CMS. Due to the rarity of CMS, more cases will be recognized and reported as the use of laboratory and genetic testing accelerates. We hope that our experience will grow and contribute further to the literature as clinical follow-up and treatment increase.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Selcan Öztürk
- Fellow in Pediatric Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Ayten Güleç
- Fellow in Pediatric Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Murat Erdoğan
- Medical Doctor, Department of Medical Genetics, Kayseri State Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Mikail Demir
- Medical Doctor, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Genetics, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Canpolat
- Professor of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Hakan Gümüş
- Professor of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Okay Çağlayan
- Professor of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Genetics, Dokuz Eylül University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Munis Dündar
- Professor of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Genetics, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Hüseyin Per
- Professor of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Gómez-García de la Banda M, Simental-Aldaba E, Fahmy N, Sternberg D, Blondy P, Quijano-Roy S, Malfatti E. Case Report: A Novel AChR Epsilon Variant Causing a Clinically Discordant Salbutamol Responsive Congenital Myasthenic Syndrome in Two Egyptian Siblings. Front Neurol 2022; 13:909715. [PMID: 35720108 PMCID: PMC9201482 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.909715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital myasthenic syndromes (CMS) are inherited disorders that lead to abnormal neuromuscular transmission. Post-synaptic mutations are the main cause of CMS, particularly mutations in CHRNE. We report a novel homozygous CHRNE pathogenic variant in two Egyptian siblings showing a CMS. Interestingly, they showed different degrees of extraocular and skeletal muscle involvement; both presented only a partial response to cholinesterase inhibitors, and rapidly and substantially ameliorated after the addition of oral β2 adrenergic agonists. Here, we enlarge the genetic spectrum of CHRNE-related congenital myasthenic syndromes and highlight the importance of a β2 adrenergic agonists treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Gómez-García de la Banda
- Pediatric Neurology and ICU Department, AP-HP Université Paris Saclay, Hôpital Raymond Poincaré, Garches, France
- Reference Center for Neuromuscular Diseases Centre “Nord- Est- Ile de France”, FILNEMUS, Creteil, France
- European Reference Center Network (Euro-NMD ERN), Paris, France
| | - Emmanuel Simental-Aldaba
- APHP, Centre de Référence de Pathologie Neuromusculaire Nord-Est-Ile-de-France, Henri Mondor University Hospital, Créteil, France
- Department of Neurorehabilitation, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación “LGII”, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Nagia Fahmy
- Neuromuscular Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Damien Sternberg
- European Reference Center Network (Euro-NMD ERN), Paris, France
- Service de Biochimie Métabolique, Centre de Génétique, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, APHP Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Patricia Blondy
- European Reference Center Network (Euro-NMD ERN), Paris, France
| | - Susana Quijano-Roy
- Pediatric Neurology and ICU Department, AP-HP Université Paris Saclay, Hôpital Raymond Poincaré, Garches, France
- Reference Center for Neuromuscular Diseases Centre “Nord- Est- Ile de France”, FILNEMUS, Creteil, France
- European Reference Center Network (Euro-NMD ERN), Paris, France
- Centre de Recherche en Myologie, UMRS974, Paris, France
| | - Edoardo Malfatti
- Reference Center for Neuromuscular Diseases Centre “Nord- Est- Ile de France”, FILNEMUS, Creteil, France
- APHP, Centre de Référence de Pathologie Neuromusculaire Nord-Est-Ile-de-France, Henri Mondor University Hospital, Créteil, France
- Univ Paris Est Créteil, INSERM, IMRB, Créteil, France
- AP-HP, Hôpital Mondor, Service d'histologie, Créteil, France
- *Correspondence: Edoardo Malfatti
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Fatema K, Rahman M. Fast channel congenital myesthenic syndrome: Reporting two cases with mutation of CHRNE gene and short review. J Pediatr Neurosci 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/jpn.jpn_124_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
|
8
|
Seo CH, Cui HS, Kim JB. Altered K Ca3.1 expression following burn injury and the therapeutic potential of TRAM-34 in post-burn hypertrophic scar formation. Transl Res 2021; 236:133-146. [PMID: 33905948 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2021.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Hypertrophic scars are the most common post-burn complications characterized by fibroblast proliferation and excessive extracellular matrix deposition. The intermediate-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channel (KCa3.1) mediates fibroblast activation, resulting in several fibrotic diseases; however, this channel's role in the formation of post-burn hypertrophic skin scars remains unknown. Herein, we investigated the role of KCa3.1 and the therapeutic potential of TRAM-34, a selective inhibitor of KCa3.1, in hypertrophic skin scar formation following burn injury. Cytosolic Ca2+ levels, the expression of KCa3.1 and hypertrophic markers, and the proliferation of skin fibroblasts obtained directly from patients with third-degree burns who consequently developed post-burn hypertrophic scars were assessed. The anti-fibrotic effect of KCa3.1 inhibition by TRAM-34 was evaluated in vitro (fibroblasts) and in vivo (mouse burn models). Fibroblasts from burn wounds exhibited remarkably higher levels of cytosolic Ca2+ than normal cells. KCa3.1 expression was markedly higher in the membrane fraction but lower in the cytosolic fraction of burn wound fibroblasts than in normal cells. Selective inhibition of KCa3.1 by TRAM-34 markedly reduced not only the proliferation of burn wound fibroblasts but also the expression of hypertrophic markers in these cells. Anti-scarring molecular, histological, and visual effects of TRAM-34 were confirmed in murine burn models. Altered subcellular expression of KCa3.1 is a novel mechanism underlying the cellular response to burn injury. Our results suggest that selective inhibition of KCa3.1 by TRAM-34 has therapeutic potential against post-burn hypertrophic scar formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cheong Hoon Seo
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Hangang Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hui Song Cui
- Burn Institute, Hangang Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - June-Bum Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Hangang Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Novel compound heterozygous variants in the GFPT1 gene leading to rare limb-girdle congenital myasthenic syndrome with rimmed vacuoles. Neurol Sci 2021; 42:3485-3490. [PMID: 33438142 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-020-05021-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMS) is a heterogeneous group of rare disorders with impaired neuromuscular transmission caused by genetic defects, which is characterized by fatigable muscle weakness. CASE PRESENTATION Herein, we report a case of limb-girdle CMS (LG-CMS) in a 15-year-old Chinese girl with limb weakness and mild ptosis. The patient presented with well-defined clinical manifestations, muscle imaging, and electrophysiological features associated with CMS. On muscle biopsy, in addition to tubular aggregates identified, an extremely unusual pathological change of rimmed vacuoles in muscle fibers was observed. Whole-exome sequencing disclosed two novel heterozygous variants (c.14 T>A and c.581 T>C) in the human glutamine-fructose-6-phosphate transaminase 1 (GFPT1) gene, leading to the substitutions of phenylalanine to tyrosine (p.F5Y) and serine (p.F194S), respectively. Both variants were predicted to be likely pathogenic by SIFT, Polyphen-2, and Mutation Taster. Treatments with pyridostigmine bromide and albuterol produced a dramatic improvement. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, molecular genetic analysis and muscle biopsy play crucial roles in the diagnosis of GFPT1-related LG-CMS with rimmed vacuoles (a rare phenotype of CMS) and have important implications for treatment decision.
Collapse
|
10
|
Jühlen R, Martinelli V, Vinci C, Breckpot J, Fahrenkrog B. Centrosome and ciliary abnormalities in fetal akinesia deformation sequence human fibroblasts. Sci Rep 2020; 10:19301. [PMID: 33168876 PMCID: PMC7652866 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-76192-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ciliopathies are clinical disorders of the primary cilium with widely recognised phenotypic and genetic heterogeneity. Here, we found impaired ciliogenesis in fibroblasts derived from individuals with fetal akinesia deformation sequence (FADS), a broad spectrum of neuromuscular disorders arising from compromised foetal movement. We show that cells derived from FADS individuals have shorter and less primary cilia (PC), in association with alterations in post-translational modifications in α-tubulin. Similarly, siRNA-mediated depletion of two known FADS proteins, the scaffold protein rapsyn and the nucleoporin NUP88, resulted in defective PC formation. Consistent with a role in ciliogenesis, rapsyn and NUP88 localised to centrosomes and PC. Furthermore, proximity-ligation assays confirm the respective vicinity of rapsyn and NUP88 to γ-tubulin. Proximity-ligation assays moreover show that rapsyn and NUP88 are adjacent to each other and that the rapsyn-NUP88 interface is perturbed in the examined FADS cells. We suggest that the perturbed rapsyn-NUP88 interface leads to defects in PC formation and that defective ciliogenesis contributes to the pleiotropic defects seen in FADS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ramona Jühlen
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 6041, Gosselies, Belgium.,Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Medical School, RWTH Aachen University, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Valérie Martinelli
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 6041, Gosselies, Belgium
| | - Chiara Vinci
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 6041, Gosselies, Belgium
| | - Jeroen Breckpot
- Center for Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, Catholic University Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Birthe Fahrenkrog
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 6041, Gosselies, Belgium. .,Biozentrum, University of Basel, 4056, Basel, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
FARJAMI Z, KHODAENIA N, EBRAHIMI N, ZAMANI G, ASHNAEI AH, GALEHDARI M, MORADYAR M, HOUSHMAND M. A case report of congenital myasthenic syndrome caused by a mutation in theCHRNE genein the Iranian population. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF CHILD NEUROLOGY 2020; 14:87-94. [PMID: 33193787 PMCID: PMC7660024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2018] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMS) refers to a heterogeneous group of inherited disorders, characterized by defective transmissionat the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). Patients with CMS showed similar muscle weakness, while other clinical manifestations are mostly dependent on genetic factors. This disease,caused bydifferent DNA mutations, is genetically inherited. It is also associated with mutations of genes at NMJ, involving the acetylcholine receptor (AChR) subunits. Here, we present the case ofa five-year-old Iranian boywith CMS, undergoingtargeted sequencing of a panel of genes, associated with arthrogryposis and CMS. The patient had six affected relatives in his genetic pedigreechart. The investigations indicated a homozygous single base pair deletion at exon 12 of the CHRNE gene (chr17:4802186delC).This region was conserved across mammalian evolution and was not submitted to the 1000 Genomes Project database.Overall, the CHRNEvariant may beclassified as a significant variant in the etiology of CMS.It can besuggested thatthe Iranian CMS population carry regional pathogenic mutations, which can be detected viatargeted and whole genome sequencing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zahra FARJAMI
- National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Negar KHODAENIA
- National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Neshat EBRAHIMI
- Laboratory of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Gholamreza ZAMANI
- Pediatric Neurologist, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Hosein ASHNAEI
- Department of Modern Sciences and technologies; Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad GALEHDARI
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, North Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi MORADYAR
- National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Massoud HOUSHMAND
- National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Grassi F, Fucile S. Calcium influx through muscle nAChR-channels: One route, multiple roles. Neuroscience 2019; 439:117-124. [PMID: 30999028 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2019.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Although Ca2+ influx through muscle nAChR-channels has been described over the past 40 years, its functions remain still poorly understood. In this review we suggest possible roles of Ca2+ entry at all stages of muscle development, summarizing the evidence present in literature. nAChRs are expressed in myoblasts prior to fusion, and can be activated in the absence of an ACh-releasing nerve terminal, with Ca2+ influx likely contributing to regulate cell fusion. Upon establishment of nerve-muscle contact, Ca2+ influx contributes to orchestrate the signaling required for the correct formation of the neuromuscular junction. Finally, in the mature synapse, Ca2+ entry through postsynaptic nAChR-channels - highly Ca2+ permeable, in particular in humans - acts on K+ and Na+ channels to shape endplate excitability. However, when genetic defects cause excessive channel activation, Ca2+ influx becomes toxic and causes endplate myopathy. Throughout the review, we highlight how Ricardo Miledi has contributed to construct this whole body of knowledge, from the initial description of Ca2+ permeability of endplate nAChR channels, to the rationale for the treatment of endplate excitotoxic damage under pathological conditions. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: SI: Honoring Ricardo Miledi - outstanding neuroscientist of XX-XXI centuries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Grassi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| | - Sergio Fucile
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy; IRCCS Neuromed, Viale dell'Elettronica, 86077, Pozzilli, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Bouzat C, Mukhtasimova N. The nicotinic acetylcholine receptor as a molecular machine for neuromuscular transmission. CURRENT OPINION IN PHYSIOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cophys.2018.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
|
14
|
Yang K, Cheng H, Yuan F, Meng L, Yin R, Zhang Y, Wang S, Wang C, Lu Y, Xi J, Lu Q, Chen Y. CHRNE compound heterozygous mutations in congenital myasthenic syndrome: A case report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2018; 97:e0347. [PMID: 29702980 PMCID: PMC5944527 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000010347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMSs) are a group of rare genetic disorders of the neurological junction, which can result in structural or functional weakness. Here, we characterized a case of CMS in order to clarify the diagnosis and expand the understanding of it. The molecular diagnosis had implications for choice of treatment and genetic counseling. PATIENT CONCERNS A 3-year-old male patient with CMS had ptosis and limb weakness for 2 months after birth. Clinical course and electrophysiological, imaging, and genetic findings were assessed. Protein structure/function was predicted. A novel mutation of c.295C>T (exon 4) and another known mutation of c.442T>A (exon 5) were found in CHRNE. Both mutations localized in conserved sequences. The c.442T>A (p.C148S) missense mutation in CHRNE was predicted to be damaging/deleterious. The iterative threading assembly refinement (I-TASSER) server generated vastly different 3-dimensional (3D) atomic models based on protein sequences from wide-type and novel nonsense mutation of c.295C>T (p.R99X) in CHRNE. DIAGNOSES The diagnosis of CMS with CHRNE mutations in Han Chinese was confirmed. INTERVENTIONS The patient was given prednisone (10 mg, once daily, taken orally) and pyridostigmine (15 mg, three times a day, taken orally). OUTCOMES The patient had a moderate response to prednisone and pyridostigmine. LESSONS We expanded the genotype and phenotype of CMS with CHRNE mutations in Han Chinese and provided new insights into the molecular mechanism of CMS and help to the diagnosis and treatment of CMS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Linyi Meng
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Fundamental Molecules and Mechanisms for Forming and Maintaining Neuromuscular Synapses. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19020490. [PMID: 29415504 PMCID: PMC5855712 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19020490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Revised: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The neuromuscular synapse is a relatively large synapse with hundreds of active zones in presynaptic motor nerve terminals and more than ten million acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) in the postsynaptic membrane. The enrichment of proteins in presynaptic and postsynaptic membranes ensures a rapid, robust, and reliable synaptic transmission. Over fifty years ago, classic studies of the neuromuscular synapse led to a comprehensive understanding of how a synapse looks and works, but these landmark studies did not reveal the molecular mechanisms responsible for building and maintaining a synapse. During the past two-dozen years, the critical molecular players, responsible for assembling the specialized postsynaptic membrane and regulating nerve terminal differentiation, have begun to be identified and their mechanism of action better understood. Here, we describe and discuss five of these key molecular players, paying heed to their discovery as well as describing their currently understood mechanisms of action. In addition, we discuss the important gaps that remain to better understand how these proteins act to control synaptic differentiation and maintenance.
Collapse
|
16
|
Congenital Myasthenic Syndromes. Neuromuscul Disord 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/978-981-10-5361-0_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
17
|
Liu W, Chakkalakal JV. The Composition, Development, and Regeneration of Neuromuscular Junctions. Curr Top Dev Biol 2018; 126:99-124. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2017.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
|
18
|
Cotta A, Paim JF, Carvalho E, da-Cunha-Júnior AL, Navarro MM, Valicek J, Menezes MM, Nunes SV, Xavier-Neto R, Baptista S, Lima LR, Takata RI, Vargas AP. The relative frequency of common neuromuscular diagnoses in a reference center. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2017; 75:789-795. [PMID: 29236822 DOI: 10.1590/0004-282x20170151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 08/11/2017] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
The diagnostic procedure in neuromuscular patients is complex. Knowledge of the relative frequency of neuromuscular diseases within the investigated population is important to allow the neurologist to perform the most appropriate diagnostic tests. OBJECTIVE To report the relative frequency of common neuromuscular diagnoses in a reference center. METHODS A 17-year chart review of patients with suspicion of myopathy. RESULTS Among 3,412 examinations, 1,603 (46.98%) yielded confirmatory results: 782 (48.78%) underwent molecular studies, and 821 (51.21%) had muscle biopsies. The most frequent diagnoses were: dystrophinopathy 460 (28.70%), mitochondriopathy 330 (20.59%), spinal muscular atrophy 158 (9.86%), limb girdle muscular dystrophy 157 (9.79%), Steinert myotonic dystrophy 138 (8.61%), facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy 99 (6.17%), and other diagnoses 261 (16.28%). CONCLUSION Using the presently-available diagnostic techniques in this service, a specific limb girdle muscular dystrophy subtype diagnosis was reached in 61% of the patients. A neuromuscular-appropriate diagnosis is important for genetic counseling, rehabilitation orientation, and early treatment of respiratory and cardiac complications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Cotta
- Rede SARAH de Hospitais de Reabilitação, Departamento de Patologia, Belo Horizonte MG, Brasil
| | - Júlia Filardi Paim
- Rede SARAH de Hospitais de Reabilitação, Departamento de Patologia, Belo Horizonte MG, Brasil
| | - Elmano Carvalho
- Rede SARAH de Hospitais de Reabilitação, Departamento de Neurofisiologia, Belo Horizonte MG, Brasil
| | | | - Monica M Navarro
- Rede SARAH de Hospitais de Reabilitação, Departamento de Pediatria, Belo Horizonte MG, Brasil
| | - Jaquelin Valicek
- Rede SARAH de Hospitais de Reabilitação, Departamento de Neurofisiologia, Belo Horizonte MG, Brasil
| | - Miriam Melo Menezes
- Rede SARAH de Hospitais de Reabilitação, Departamento de Neurologia, Belo Horizonte MG, Brasil
| | - Simone Vilela Nunes
- Rede SARAH de Hospitais de Reabilitação, Departamento de Neurologia, Belo Horizonte MG, Brasil
| | - Rafael Xavier-Neto
- Rede SARAH de Hospitais de Reabilitação, Departamento de Neurologia, Belo Horizonte MG, Brasil
| | - Sidney Baptista
- Rede SARAH de Hospitais de Reabilitação, Departamento de Patologia, Belo Horizonte MG, Brasil
| | - Luciano Romero Lima
- Rede SARAH de Hospitais de Reabilitação, Departamento de Informática, Belo Horizonte MG, Brasil
| | - Reinaldo Issao Takata
- Rede SARAH de Hospitais de Reabilitação, Departamento de Biologia Molecular, Brasília DF, Brasil
| | - Antonio Pedro Vargas
- Rede SARAH de Hospitais de Reabilitação, Departamento de Neurologia, Belo Horizonte MG, Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Natera-de Benito D, Töpf A, Vilchez JJ, González-Quereda L, Domínguez-Carral J, Díaz-Manera J, Ortez C, Bestué M, Gallano P, Dusl M, Abicht A, Müller JS, Senderek J, García-Ribes A, Muelas N, Evangelista T, Azuma Y, McMacken G, Paipa Merchan A, Rodríguez Cruz PM, Camacho A, Jiménez E, Miranda-Herrero MC, Santana-Artiles A, García-Campos O, Dominguez-Rubio R, Olivé M, Colomer J, Beeson D, Lochmüller H, Nascimento A. Molecular characterization of congenital myasthenic syndromes in Spain. Neuromuscul Disord 2017; 27:1087-1098. [PMID: 29054425 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2017.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2017] [Revised: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Congenital myasthenic syndromes (CMS) are a heterogeneous group of genetic disorders, all of which impair neuromuscular transmission. Epidemiological data and frequencies of gene mutations are scarce in the literature. Here we describe the molecular genetic and clinical findings of sixty-four genetically confirmed CMS patients from Spain. Thirty-six mutations in the CHRNE, RAPSN, COLQ, GFPT1, DOK7, CHRNG, GMPPB, CHAT, CHRNA1, and CHRNB1 genes were identified in our patients, with five of them not reported so far. These data provide an overview on the relative frequencies of the different CMS subtypes in a large Spanish population. CHRNE mutations are the most common cause of CMS in Spain, accounting for 27% of the total. The second most common are RAPSN mutations. We found a higher rate of GFPT1 mutations in comparison with other populations. Remarkably, several founder mutations made a large contribution to CMS in Spain: RAPSN c.264C > A (p.Asn88Lys), CHRNE c.130insG (Glu44Glyfs*3), CHRNE c.1353insG (p.Asn542Gluf*4), DOK7 c.1124_1127dup (p.Ala378Serfs*30), and particularly frequent in Spain in comparison with other populations, COLQ c.1289A > C (p.Tyr430Ser). Furthermore, we describe phenotypes and distinguishing clinical signs associated with the various CMS genes which might help to identify specific CMS subtypes to guide diagnosis and management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Natera-de Benito
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, CIBERER U703, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - A Töpf
- John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - J J Vilchez
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitari La Fe, Universitat de Valencia, CIBERER U763, Valencia, Spain
| | - L González-Quereda
- Department of Genetics, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau and CIBERER U705, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Domínguez-Carral
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, Santander, Spain
| | - J Díaz-Manera
- Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona and Centre for Biomedical Network Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - C Ortez
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, CIBERER U703, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Bestué
- Department of Neurology, Hospital General San Jorge, Huesca, Spain
| | - P Gallano
- Department of Genetics, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau and CIBERER U705, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Dusl
- Friedrich-Baur-Institute, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - A Abicht
- Friedrich-Baur-Institute, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, 80336 Munich, Germany; Medical Genetics Center, Munich, Germany
| | - J S Müller
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - J Senderek
- Friedrich-Baur-Institute, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - A García-Ribes
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitario Cruces, Bilbao, Spain
| | - N Muelas
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitari La Fe, Universitat de Valencia, CIBERER U763, Valencia, Spain
| | - T Evangelista
- John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - Y Azuma
- John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - G McMacken
- John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - A Paipa Merchan
- Neuropathology Unit, Department of Pathology and Neuromuscular Unit, IDIBELL-Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain
| | - P M Rodríguez Cruz
- Neurosciences Group, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DS, UK
| | - A Camacho
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - E Jiménez
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitario Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - M C Miranda-Herrero
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - A Santana-Artiles
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario Insular Materno-Infantil, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - O García-Campos
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Hospital Virgen de la Salud, Toledo, Spain
| | - R Dominguez-Rubio
- Neuropathology Unit, Department of Pathology and Neuromuscular Unit, IDIBELL-Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Olivé
- Neuropathology Unit, Department of Pathology and Neuromuscular Unit, IDIBELL-Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Colomer
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, CIBERER U703, Barcelona, Spain
| | - D Beeson
- Neurosciences Group, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DS, UK
| | - H Lochmüller
- John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - A Nascimento
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, CIBERER U703, Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Gomez AM, Stevens JAA, Mané-Damas M, Molenaar P, Duimel H, Verheyen F, Cossins J, Beeson D, De Baets MH, Losen M, Martinez-Martinez P. Silencing of Dok-7 in Adult Rat Muscle Increases Susceptibility to Passive Transfer Myasthenia Gravis. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2017; 186:2559-68. [PMID: 27658713 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2016.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2015] [Revised: 04/30/2016] [Accepted: 05/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease mediated by autoantibodies that target proteins at the neuromuscular junction, primarily the acetylcholine receptor (AChR) and the muscle-specific kinase. Because downstream of kinase 7 (Dok-7) is essential for the full activation of muscle-specific kinase and consequently for dense clustering of AChRs, we hypothesized that reduced levels of Dok-7 increase the susceptibility to passive transfer MG. To test this hypothesis, Dok-7 expression was reduced by transfecting shRNA-coding plasmids into the tibialis anterior muscle of adult rats by in vivo electroporation. Subclinical MG was subsequently induced with a low dose of anti-AChR monoclonal antibody 35. Neuromuscular transmission was significantly impaired in Dok-7-siRNA-electroporated legs compared with the contralateral control legs, which correlated with a reduction of AChR protein levels at the neuromuscular junction (approximately 25%) in Dok-7-siRNA-electroporated muscles, compared with contralateral control muscles. These results suggest that a reduced expression of Dok-7 may play a role in the susceptibility to passive transfer MG, by rendering AChR clusters less resistant to the autoantibody attack.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro M Gomez
- Neuroimmunology Group, Division of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - Jo A A Stevens
- Neuroimmunology Group, Division of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Marina Mané-Damas
- Neuroimmunology Group, Division of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Peter Molenaar
- Neuroimmunology Group, Division of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Hans Duimel
- Electron Microscopy Unit, Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Fons Verheyen
- Electron Microscopy Unit, Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Judith Cossins
- Neurosciences Group, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - David Beeson
- Neurosciences Group, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Marc H De Baets
- Neuroimmunology Group, Division of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Mario Losen
- Neuroimmunology Group, Division of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Pilar Martinez-Martinez
- Neuroimmunology Group, Division of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Winters L, Van Hoof E, De Catte L, Van Den Bogaert K, de Ravel T, De Waele L, Corveleyn A, Breckpot J. Massive parallel sequencing identifies RAPSN and PDHA1 mutations causing fetal akinesia deformation sequence. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2017; 21:745-753. [PMID: 28495245 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2017.04.641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2017] [Revised: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 04/19/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fetal akinesia deformation sequence (FADS) or arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) is characterized by clinical ambiguity and genetic heterogeneity, hampering genetic diagnosis via traditional sequencing methods. Next generation sequencing (NGS) of all known disease-causing genes offers an elegant solution to identify the genetic etiology of AMC/FADS in a diagnostic setting. METHODS An in-house developed disease-associated gene panel was conducted in two unrelated fetuses with FADS. First, a de novo analysis was performed on the entire disease-associated gene panel. If no pathogenic mutation was identified, analysis of variants retained in a specific subpanel with arthrogryposis/fetal akinesia-causing genes was performed. RESULTS In the first family, FADS relates to a homozygous c.484G > A (p.Glu162Lys) mutation in the gene RAPSN. The second case concerns a sporadic patient with brain anomalies and arthrogryposis due to a de novo hemizygous c.498C > T splice-site mutation in the pyruvate dehydrogenase-alpha 1 (PDHA1) gene. DISCUSSION NGS facilitated genetic diagnosis, and hence genetic counseling, for both families with AMC/FADS. Biallelic RAPSN mutations typically result in congenital myasthenia syndrome, or occasionally in FADS. This is the first report attributing the RAPSN mutation c.484G > A, identified in a homozygous state in patient 1, to FADS. The second patient represents the first case of AMC due to a PDHA1 mutation, advocating that pyruvate dehydrogenase deficiency should be considered in the differential diagnosis of fetal akinesia. This study illustrates the relevance of a disease-associated-gene panel as a diagnostic tool in pregnancies complicated by this genetically heterogeneous condition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lore Winters
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospitals Leuven, Catholic University Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Evelien Van Hoof
- Center for Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, Catholic University Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Luc De Catte
- Division of Woman and Child, Clinical Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fetal Medicine Unit, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kris Van Den Bogaert
- Center for Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, Catholic University Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Thomy de Ravel
- Center for Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, Catholic University Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Liesbeth De Waele
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Anniek Corveleyn
- Center for Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, Catholic University Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jeroen Breckpot
- Center for Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, Catholic University Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
AChRs Are Essential for the Targeting of Rapsyn to the Postsynaptic Membrane of NMJs in Living Mice. J Neurosci 2017; 36:5680-5. [PMID: 27225759 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.4580-15.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Accepted: 04/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Rapsyn, a 43 kDa scaffold protein, is required for the clustering of acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) at synaptic sites between mammalian motor neurons and muscle cells. However, the mechanism by which rapsyn is inserted and retained at postsynaptic sites at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) in vivo remains largely unknown. We found that neither the N-terminal myristoylation nor the cysteine-rich RING H2 domain of rapsyn is required for its stable association with the postsynaptic membrane of NMJs. When N-myristoylation-defective rapsyn-EGFP mutant (G2A) and RING-H2 domain truncated rapsyn-EGFP were electroporated into sternomastoid muscles, a strong rapsyn fluorescent signal was observed selectively at synapses, similar to WT rapsyn-EGFP. The targeting of rapsyn-EGFP (WT and mutants) is independent of synaptic activity because they were inserted at denervated NMJs. However, when the coiled-coil domain (the AChR-binding domain of rapsyn) is deleted, rapsyn fails to associate with AChRs at NMJs of living mice. In cultured myoblasts (in which AChRs are absent), myristoylated WT rapsyn mostly localizes to lysosomes and is not associated with the plasma membrane. However, in the presence of AChR subunits, rapsyn molecules were targeted to the cell surface and formed aggregates with AChRs. The targeting of AChRs to the cell membrane, in contrast, does not require rapsyn because expressed AChRs are visible on the cell membranes of rapsyn-deficient myoblasts. These results provide evidence for an active role of AChRs in the targeting of rapsyn to the NMJ in vivo SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Rapsyn is required for the clustering of acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) at postsynaptic sites. However, the mechanism by which rapsyn is targeted to synaptic sites at the vertebrate neuromuscular junction remains unclear. In this study, we showed that the coiled-coil domain of rapsyn is required for its targeting to the cell surface via its interaction with AChRs. In contrast, the targeting of AChRs to the cell membrane does not require rapsyn. These results indicate that AChRs play a critical role in the insertion and/or association of rapsyn with the plasma membrane of synaptic sites.
Collapse
|
23
|
Jones RA, Reich CD, Dissanayake KN, Kristmundsdottir F, Findlater GS, Ribchester RR, Simmen MW, Gillingwater TH. NMJ-morph reveals principal components of synaptic morphology influencing structure-function relationships at the neuromuscular junction. Open Biol 2016; 6:160240. [PMID: 27927794 PMCID: PMC5204123 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.160240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 11/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The ability to form synapses is one of the fundamental properties required by the mammalian nervous system to generate network connectivity. Structural and functional diversity among synaptic populations is a key hallmark of network diversity, and yet we know comparatively little about the morphological principles that govern variability in the size, shape and strength of synapses. Using the mouse neuromuscular junction (NMJ) as an experimentally accessible model synapse, we report on the development of a robust, standardized methodology to facilitate comparative morphometric analysis of synapses ('NMJ-morph'). We used NMJ-morph to generate baseline morphological reference data for 21 separate pre- and post-synaptic variables from 2160 individual NMJs belonging to nine anatomically distinct populations of synapses, revealing systematic differences in NMJ morphology between defined synaptic populations. Principal components analysis revealed that overall NMJ size and the degree of synaptic fragmentation, alongside pre-synaptic axon diameter, were the most critical parameters in defining synaptic morphology. 'Average' synaptic morphology was remarkably conserved between comparable synapses from the left and right sides of the body. Systematic differences in synaptic morphology predicted corresponding differences in synaptic function that were supported by physiological recordings, confirming the robust relationship between synaptic size and strength.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ross A Jones
- Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research, University of Edinburgh, Old Medical School, Teviot Place, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
- Centre for Integrative Physiology, University of Edinburgh, Old Medical School, Teviot Place, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
- Anatomy, Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Old Medical School, Teviot Place, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
| | - Caitlan D Reich
- Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research, University of Edinburgh, Old Medical School, Teviot Place, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
- Centre for Integrative Physiology, University of Edinburgh, Old Medical School, Teviot Place, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
- Anatomy, Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Old Medical School, Teviot Place, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
| | - Kosala N Dissanayake
- Centre for Integrative Physiology, University of Edinburgh, Old Medical School, Teviot Place, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
| | - Fanney Kristmundsdottir
- Anatomy, Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Old Medical School, Teviot Place, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
| | - Gordon S Findlater
- Anatomy, Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Old Medical School, Teviot Place, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
| | - Richard R Ribchester
- Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research, University of Edinburgh, Old Medical School, Teviot Place, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
- Centre for Integrative Physiology, University of Edinburgh, Old Medical School, Teviot Place, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
| | - Martin W Simmen
- Centre for Integrative Physiology, University of Edinburgh, Old Medical School, Teviot Place, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
| | - Thomas H Gillingwater
- Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research, University of Edinburgh, Old Medical School, Teviot Place, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
- Centre for Integrative Physiology, University of Edinburgh, Old Medical School, Teviot Place, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
- Anatomy, Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Old Medical School, Teviot Place, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Aharoni S, Sadeh M, Shapira Y, Edvardson S, Daana M, Dor-Wollman T, Mimouni-Bloch A, Halevy A, Cohen R, Sagie L, Argov Z, Rabie M, Spiegel R, Chervinsky I, Orenstein N, Engel AG, Nevo Y. Congenital myasthenic syndrome in Israel: Genetic and clinical characterization. Neuromuscul Disord 2016; 27:136-140. [PMID: 28024842 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2016.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2016] [Revised: 11/20/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the study was to evaluate the epidemiology of patients with congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMS) in Israel. Targeted mutation analysis was performed based on the clinical symptoms and electrophysiological findings for known CMS. Additional specific tests were performed in patients of Iranian and/or Iraqi Jewish origin. All medical records were reviewed and clinical data, genetic mutations and outcomes were recorded. Forty-five patients with genetic mutations in known CMS genes from 35 families were identified. Mutations in RAPSN were identified in 13 kinships in Israel. The most common mutation was c.-38A>G detected in 8 patients of Iranian and/or Iraqi Jewish origin. Four different recessive mutations in COLQ were identified in 11 kinships, 10 of which were of Muslim-Arab descent. Mutations in CHRNE were identified in 7 kinships. Less commonly detected mutations were in CHRND, CHAT, GFPT1 and DOK7. In conclusion, mutations in RAPSN and COLQ are the most common causes of CMS in our cohort. Specific mutations in COLQ, RAPSN, and CHRNE occur in specific ethnic populations and should be taken into account when the diagnosis of a CMS is suspected.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Aharoni
- Institute of Child Neurology, Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, Petach Tikva, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Menachem Sadeh
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; Department of Neurology, Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel
| | - Yehuda Shapira
- Neuropediatric Unit, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Simon Edvardson
- Neuropediatric Unit, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Muhannad Daana
- Neuropediatric Unit, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Talia Dor-Wollman
- Neuropediatric Unit, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Aviva Mimouni-Bloch
- Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Unit, Loewenstein Rehabilitation Hospital, Raanana, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ayelet Halevy
- Institute of Child Neurology, Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, Petach Tikva, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Rony Cohen
- Institute of Child Neurology, Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, Petach Tikva, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Liora Sagie
- Pediatric Neurology Unit, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Zohar Argov
- Department of Neurology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Malcolm Rabie
- Institute of Child Neurology, Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, Petach Tikva, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ronen Spiegel
- Genetic Institute, Emek Medical Center, Afula, Israel
| | | | - Naama Orenstein
- Genetics Unit, Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, Petach Tikva, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Andrew G Engel
- Department of Neurology and Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Yoram Nevo
- Institute of Child Neurology, Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, Petach Tikva, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Natera-de Benito D, Domínguez-Carral J, Muelas N, Nascimento A, Ortez C, Jaijo T, Arteaga R, Colomer J, Vilchez JJ. Phenotypic heterogeneity in two large Roma families with a congenital myasthenic syndrome due to CHRNE 1267delG mutation. A long-term follow-up. Neuromuscul Disord 2016; 26:789-795. [PMID: 27634344 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2016.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2016] [Revised: 07/22/2016] [Accepted: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Congenital myasthenic syndromes (CMS) are a heterogeneous group of genetic disorders. Mutations in CHRNE are one of the most common cause of them and the ɛ1267delG frameshifting mutation is described to be present on at least one allele of 60% of patients with CHRNE mutations. We present a comprehensive description of the heterogeneous clinical features of the CMS caused by the homozygous 1267delG mutation in the AChR Ɛ subunit in nine members of two large Gipsy kindreds. Our observations indicate that founder Roma mutation 1267delG leads to a phenotype further characterized by ophthalmoplegia, bilateral ptosis, and good response to pyridostigmine and 3,4-DAP; but also by facial weakness, bulbar symptoms, neck muscle weakness, and proximal limb weakness that sometimes entails the loss of ambulation. Interestingly, we found in our series a remarkable proportion of patients with a progressive or fluctuating course of the disease. This finding is in some contrast with previous idea that considered this form of CMS as benign, non progressive, and with a low impact on the capacity of ambulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Natera-de Benito
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitario de Fuenlabrada, Madrid, Spain.
| | - J Domínguez-Carral
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, Santander, Spain
| | - N Muelas
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitari La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - A Nascimento
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - C Ortez
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - T Jaijo
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitari La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - R Arteaga
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, Santander, Spain
| | - J Colomer
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J J Vilchez
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitari La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Garg N, Yiannikas C, Hardy TA, Belaya K, Cheung J, Beeson D, Reddel SW. Late presentations of congenital myasthenic syndromes: How many do we miss? Muscle Nerve 2016; 54:721-7. [DOI: 10.1002/mus.25085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nidhi Garg
- Neuroimmunology Clinic; Concord Hospital and University of Sydney; NSW Australia
| | - Con Yiannikas
- Departments of Neurology and Molecular Medicine; University of Sydney, Concord Hospital; Sydney New South Wales 2139 Australia
| | - Todd A. Hardy
- Neuroimmunology Clinic; Concord Hospital and University of Sydney; NSW Australia
| | - Katsiaryna Belaya
- The Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine; University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital; Oxford UK
| | - Jonathan Cheung
- The Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine; University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital; Oxford UK
| | - David Beeson
- The Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine; University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital; Oxford UK
| | - Stephen W. Reddel
- Neuroimmunology Clinic; Concord Hospital and University of Sydney; NSW Australia
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Tan JS, Ambang T, Ahmad-Annuar A, Rajahram GS, Wong KT, Goh KJ. Congenital myasthenic syndrome due to novel CHAT
mutations in an ethnic kadazandusun family. Muscle Nerve 2016; 53:822-6. [DOI: 10.1002/mus.25037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Joo-San Tan
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine; University of Malaya; Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
| | - Tomica Ambang
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine; University of Malaya; Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
| | - Azlina Ahmad-Annuar
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine; University of Malaya; Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
| | - Giri Shan Rajahram
- Department of Medicine; Hospital Queen Elizabeth; Kota Kinabalu Sabah Malaysia
| | - Kum Thong Wong
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine; University of Malaya; Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
| | - Khean Jin Goh
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine; University of Malaya; Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Natera-de Benito D, Bestué M, Vilchez JJ, Evangelista T, Töpf A, García-Ribes A, Trujillo-Tiebas MJ, García-Hoyos M, Ortez C, Camacho A, Jiménez E, Dusl M, Abicht A, Lochmüller H, Colomer J, Nascimento A. Long-term follow-up in patients with congenital myasthenic syndrome due to RAPSN mutations. Neuromuscul Disord 2015; 26:153-9. [PMID: 26782015 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2015.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Revised: 10/27/2015] [Accepted: 10/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Rapsyn (RAPSN) mutations are a common cause of postsynaptic congenital myasthenic syndromes. We present a comprehensive description of the clinical and molecular findings of ten patients with CMS due to mutations in RAPSN, mostly with a long-term follow-up. Two patients were homozygous and eight were heterozygous for the common p.Asn88Lys mutation. In three of the heterozygous patients we have identified three novel mutations (c.869T > C; p.Leu290Pro, c.1185delG; p.Thr396Profs*12, and c.358delC; p.Gln120Serfs*8). In our cohort, the RAPSN mutations lead to a relatively homogeneous phenotype, characterized by fluctuating ptosis, occasional bulbar symptoms, neck muscle weakness, and mild proximal muscle weakness with exacerbations precipitated by minor infections. Interestingly, episodic exacerbations continue to occur during adulthood. These were characterized by proximal limb girdle weakness and ptosis, and not so much by respiratory insufficiency after age 6. All patients presented during neonatal period and responded to cholinergic agonists. In most of the affected patients, additional use of 3,4-diaminopyridine resulted in significant clinical benefit. The disease course is stable except for intermittent worsening.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Natera-de Benito
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitario de Fuenlabrada, Madrid, Spain.
| | - M Bestué
- Department of Neurology, Hospital General San Jorge, Huesca, Spain
| | - J J Vilchez
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitari La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - T Evangelista
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - A Töpf
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - A García-Ribes
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitario Cruces, Bilbao, Spain
| | - M J Trujillo-Tiebas
- Department of Genetics, Hospital Universitario Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Spain
| | - M García-Hoyos
- Department of Genetics, Instituto de Medicina Genómica, Valencia, Spain
| | - C Ortez
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Camacho
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - E Jiménez
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitario Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - M Dusl
- Friedrich-Baur-Institute, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich 80336,Germany
| | - A Abicht
- Friedrich-Baur-Institute, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich 80336,Germany; Medical Genetics Center, Munich, Germany
| | - H Lochmüller
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - J Colomer
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Nascimento
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Rinz CJ, Lennon VA, James F, Thoreson JB, Tsai KL, Starr-Moss AN, Humphries HD, Guo LT, Palmer AC, Clark LA, Shelton GD. A CHRNE frameshift mutation causes congenital myasthenic syndrome in young Jack Russell Terriers. Neuromuscul Disord 2015; 25:921-7. [PMID: 26429099 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2015.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2015] [Revised: 09/01/2015] [Accepted: 09/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Congenital myasthenic syndromes (CMSs) are a group of rare genetic disorders of the neuromuscular junction resulting in structural or functional causes of fatigable weakness that usually begins early in life. Mutations in pre-synaptic, synaptic and post-synaptic proteins have been demonstrated in human cases, with more than half involving aberrations in nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (AChR) subunits. CMS was first recognized in dogs in 1974 as an autosomal recessive trait in Jack Russell Terriers (JRTs). A deficiency of junctional AChRs was demonstrated. Here we characterize a CMS in 2 contemporary cases of JRT littermates with classic clinical and electromyographic findings, and immunochemical confirmation of an approximately 90% reduction in AChR protein content. Loci encoding the 5 AChR subunits were evaluated using microsatellite markers, and CHRNB1 and CHRNE were identified as candidate genes. Sequences of the splice sites and exons of both genes revealed a single base insertion in exon 7 of CHRNE that predicts a frameshift mutation and a premature stop codon. We further demonstrated this pathogenic mutation in CHRNE in archival tissues from unrelated JRTs studied 34 years ago.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin J Rinz
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry, College of Agriculture, Forestry, and Life Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA
| | - Vanda A Lennon
- Departments of Laboratory Medicine, Immunology and Neurology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Fiona James
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, ON, Canada N1G 2W1
| | - James B Thoreson
- Departments of Laboratory Medicine, Immunology and Neurology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Kate L Tsai
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry, College of Agriculture, Forestry, and Life Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA
| | - Alison N Starr-Moss
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry, College of Agriculture, Forestry, and Life Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA
| | - H Dale Humphries
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0709, USA
| | - Ling T Guo
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0709, USA
| | - Anthony C Palmer
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Cambridge University, Cambridge, UK
| | - Leigh Anne Clark
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry, College of Agriculture, Forestry, and Life Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA.
| | - G Diane Shelton
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0709, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
SRSF1 and hnRNP H antagonistically regulate splicing of COLQ exon 16 in a congenital myasthenic syndrome. Sci Rep 2015; 5:13208. [PMID: 26282582 PMCID: PMC4539547 DOI: 10.1038/srep13208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2015] [Accepted: 07/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The catalytic subunits of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) are anchored in the basal lamina of the neuromuscular junction using a collagen-like tail subunit (ColQ) encoded by COLQ. Mutations in COLQ cause endplate AChE deficiency. An A-to-G mutation predicting p.E415G in COLQ exon 16 identified in a patient with endplate AChE deficiency causes exclusive skipping of exon 16. RNA affinity purification, mass spectrometry, and siRNA-mediated gene knocking down disclosed that the mutation disrupts binding of a splicing-enhancing RNA-binding protein, SRSF1, and de novo gains binding of a splicing-suppressing RNA-binding protein, hnRNP H. MS2-mediated artificial tethering of each factor demonstrated that SRSF1 and hnRNP H antagonistically modulate splicing by binding exclusively to the target in exon 16. Further analyses with artificial mutants revealed that SRSF1 is able to bind to degenerative binding motifs, whereas hnRNP H strictly requires an uninterrupted stretch of poly(G). The mutation compromised splicing of the downstream intron. Isolation of early spliceosome complex revealed that the mutation impairs binding of U1-70K (snRNP70) to the downstream 5′ splice site. Global splicing analysis with RNA-seq revealed that exons carrying the hnRNP H-binding GGGGG motif are predisposed to be skipped compared to those carrying the SRSF1-binding GGAGG motif in both human and mouse brains.
Collapse
|
31
|
Congenital myasthenic syndrome due to mutation in CHRNE gene with clinical worsening and thymic hyperplasia attributed to association with autoimmune-myasthenia gravis. Neuromuscul Disord 2015; 25:928-31. [PMID: 26363966 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2015.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
We report a patient with congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMS) due to mutation in CHRNE with symptoms since the age of 4; mild to moderate fatigable weakness involved mainly ocular, bulbar and limb muscles; functional impact of the disease in their development and physical activity was modest. By the age of 34, the patient experienced gradual worsening of fatigue with dyspnoea and pronounced limb weakness, requiring significant increase of pyridostigmine. Further, a remarkable and sustained clinical improvement followed thymectomy with hyperplastic thymus. Despite of the absence of detectable antibodies to acetyl-choline receptor (AChR) (including clustered-AChR), muscle-specific kinase and low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein-4 antibodies in the serum obtained nine years after thymectomy, the clinical, genetic and histological features are in keeping with the extremely rare association of two rare neuromuscular junction disorders - CMS and myasthenia gravis (MG). The inexistence of other conditions that could potentially associate with thymic hyperplasia also supports the diagnosis of MG.
Collapse
|
32
|
Arredondo J, Lara M, Gospe SM, Mazia CG, Vaccarezza M, Garcia-Erro M, Bowe CM, Chang CH, Mezei MM, Maselli RA. Choline Acetyltransferase Mutations Causing Congenital Myasthenic Syndrome: Molecular Findings and Genotype-Phenotype Correlations. Hum Mutat 2015; 36:881-93. [PMID: 26080897 DOI: 10.1002/humu.22823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2015] [Accepted: 06/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Choline acetyltransferase catalyzes the synthesis of acetylcholine at cholinergic nerves. Mutations in human CHAT cause a congenital myasthenic syndrome due to impaired synthesis of ACh; this severe variant of the disease is frequently associated with unexpected episodes of potentially fatal apnea. The severity of this condition varies remarkably, and the molecular factors determining this variability are poorly understood. Furthermore, genotype-phenotype correlations have been difficult to establish in patients with biallelic mutations. We analyzed the protein expression of phosphorylated ChAT of seven CHAT mutations, p.Val136Met, p.Arg207His, p.Arg186Trp, p.Val194Leu, p.Pro211Ala, p.Arg566Cys, and p.Ser694Cys, in HEK-293 cells to phosphorylated ChAT, determined their enzyme kinetics and thermal stability, and examined their structural changes. Three mutations, p.Arg207His, p.Arg186Trp, and p.Arg566Cys, are novel, and p.Val136Met and p.Arg207His are homozygous in three families and associated with severe disease. The characterization of mutants showed a decrease in the overall catalytic efficiency of ChAT; in particular, those located near the active-site tunnel produced the most seriously disruptive phenotypic effects. On the other hand, p.Val136Met, which is located far from both active and substrate-binding sites, produced the most drastic reduction of ChAT expression. Overall, CHAT mutations producing low enzyme expression and severe kinetic effects are associated with the most severe phenotypes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Arredondo
- Department of Neurology, University of California Davis, Davis, California
| | - Marian Lara
- Department of Neurology, University of California Davis, Davis, California
| | - Sídney M Gospe
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, University of Washington, and Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington
| | - Claudio G Mazia
- Department of Neurology, Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas A Lanari-UBA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Maria Vaccarezza
- Servicio de Neurología Pediátrica, Hospital Italiano, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Marcela Garcia-Erro
- Sector Enfermedades Neuromusculares Hospital de Niños "Ricardo Gutiérrez", Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Constance M Bowe
- Department of Neurology, University of California Davis, Davis, California
| | - Celia H Chang
- Department of Neurology, University of California Davis, Davis, California
| | - Michelle M Mezei
- Division of Neurology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Ricardo A Maselli
- Department of Neurology, University of California Davis, Davis, California
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Belaya K, Rodríguez Cruz PM, Liu WW, Maxwell S, McGowan S, Farrugia ME, Petty R, Walls TJ, Sedghi M, Basiri K, Yue WW, Sarkozy A, Bertoli M, Pitt M, Kennett R, Schaefer A, Bushby K, Parton M, Lochmüller H, Palace J, Muntoni F, Beeson D. Mutations in GMPPB cause congenital myasthenic syndrome and bridge myasthenic disorders with dystroglycanopathies. Brain 2015; 138:2493-504. [PMID: 26133662 PMCID: PMC4547052 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awv185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2015] [Accepted: 05/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Congenital myasthenic syndromes are associated with impairments in neuromuscular transmission. Belaya et al. show that mutations of the glycosylation pathway enzyme GMPPB, which has previously been implicated in muscular dystrophy dystroglycanopathy, also cause a congenital myasthenic syndrome. This differential diagnosis is important to ensure that affected individuals receive appropriate medication. Congenital myasthenic syndromes are inherited disorders that arise from impaired signal transmission at the neuromuscular junction. Mutations in at least 20 genes are known to lead to the onset of these conditions. Four of these, ALG2, ALG14, DPAGT1 and GFPT1, are involved in glycosylation. Here we identify a fifth glycosylation gene, GMPPB, where mutations cause congenital myasthenic syndrome. First, we identified recessive mutations in seven cases from five kinships defined as congenital myasthenic syndrome using decrement of compound muscle action potentials on repetitive nerve stimulation on electromyography. The mutations were present through the length of the GMPPB, and segregation, in silico analysis, exon trapping, cell transfection followed by western blots and immunostaining were used to determine pathogenicity. GMPPB congenital myasthenic syndrome cases show clinical features characteristic of congenital myasthenic syndrome subtypes that are due to defective glycosylation, with variable weakness of proximal limb muscle groups while facial and eye muscles are largely spared. However, patients with GMPPB congenital myasthenic syndrome had more prominent myopathic features that were detectable on muscle biopsies, electromyography, muscle magnetic resonance imaging, and through elevated serum creatine kinase levels. Mutations in GMPPB have recently been reported to lead to the onset of muscular dystrophy dystroglycanopathy. Analysis of four additional GMPPB-associated muscular dystrophy dystroglycanopathy cases by electromyography found that a defective neuromuscular junction component is not always present. Thus, we find mutations in GMPPB can lead to a wide spectrum of clinical features where deficit in neuromuscular transmission is the major component in a subset of cases. Clinical recognition of GMPPB-associated congenital myasthenic syndrome may be complicated by the presence of myopathic features, but correct diagnosis is important because affected individuals can respond to appropriate treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katsiaryna Belaya
- 1 Neurosciences Group, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DS, UK
| | - Pedro M Rodríguez Cruz
- 1 Neurosciences Group, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DS, UK 2 Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Wei Wei Liu
- 1 Neurosciences Group, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DS, UK
| | - Susan Maxwell
- 1 Neurosciences Group, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DS, UK
| | - Simon McGowan
- 3 Computational Biology Research Group, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DS, UK
| | - Maria E Farrugia
- 4 Department of Neurology, Institute of Neurological Sciences, Southern General Hospital, Glasgow, UK
| | - Richard Petty
- 4 Department of Neurology, Institute of Neurological Sciences, Southern General Hospital, Glasgow, UK
| | - Timothy J Walls
- 5 Department of Neurology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4LP, UK
| | - Maryam Sedghi
- 6 Medical Genetics Laboratory, Alzahra University Hospital, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Keivan Basiri
- 7 Neurology Department, Neuroscience Research Centre, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Wyatt W Yue
- 8 Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Anna Sarkozy
- 9 Institute of Genetic Medicine, John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3BZ, UK 10 MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Institute of Neurology and National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London, UK
| | - Marta Bertoli
- 9 Institute of Genetic Medicine, John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - Matthew Pitt
- 11 Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for children NHS foundation trust, London WC1N 3JH
| | - Robin Kennett
- 2 Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Andrew Schaefer
- 5 Department of Neurology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4LP, UK
| | - Kate Bushby
- 9 Institute of Genetic Medicine, John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - Matt Parton
- 10 MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Institute of Neurology and National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London, UK
| | - Hanns Lochmüller
- 9 Institute of Genetic Medicine, John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - Jacqueline Palace
- 2 Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Francesco Muntoni
- 12 Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre and MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - David Beeson
- 1 Neurosciences Group, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DS, UK
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Tei S, Ishii HT, Mitsuhashi H, Ishiura S. Antisense oligonucleotide-mediated exon skipping of CHRNA1 pre-mRNA as potential therapy for Congenital Myasthenic Syndromes. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2015; 461:481-6. [PMID: 25888793 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2015.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2015] [Accepted: 04/06/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
CHRNA1 encodes the α subunit of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) and is expressed at the neuromuscular junction. Moreover, it is one of the causative genes of Congenital Myasthenic Syndromes (CMS). CHRNA1 undergoes alternative splicing to produce two splice variants: P3A(-), without exon P3A, and P3A(+), with the exon P3A. Only P3A(-) forms functional nAChR. Aberrant alternative splicing caused by intronic or exonic point mutations in patients leads to an extraordinary increase in P3A(+) and a concomitant decrease in P3A(-). Consequently this resulted in a shortage of functional receptors. Aiming to restore the imbalance between the two splice products, antisense oligonucleotides (AONs) were employed to induce exon P3A skipping. Three AON sequences were designed to sterically block the putative binding sequences for splicing factors necessary for exon recognition. Herein, we show that AON complementary to the 5' splice site of the exon was the most effective at exon skipping of the minigene with causative mutations, as well as endogenous wild-type CHRNA1. We conclude that single administration of the AON against the 5' splice site is a promising therapeutic approach for patients based on the dose-dependent effect of the AON and the additive effect of combined AONs. This conclusion is favorable to patients with inherited diseases of uncertain etiology that arise from aberrant splicing leading to a subsequent loss of functional translation products because our findings encourage the option of AON treatment as a therapeutic for these prospectively identified diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shoin Tei
- Department of Life-Science, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 3-8-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshige T Ishii
- Department of Life-Science, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 3-8-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Mitsuhashi
- Department of Life-Science, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 3-8-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shoichi Ishiura
- Department of Life-Science, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 3-8-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Khadilkar S, Bhutada A, Nallamilli B, Hegde M. Limb girdle weakness responding to salbutamol: An Indian family with DOK7 mutation. Indian Pediatr 2015; 52:243-4. [DOI: 10.1007/s13312-015-0616-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
|
36
|
Arnold WD, Feldman DH, Ramirez S, He L, Kassar D, Quick A, Klassen TL, Lara M, Nguyen J, Kissel JT, Lossin C, Maselli RA. Defective fast inactivation recovery of Nav 1.4 in congenital myasthenic syndrome. Ann Neurol 2015; 77:840-50. [PMID: 25707578 DOI: 10.1002/ana.24389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2014] [Revised: 02/10/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the unique phenotype and genetic findings in a 57-year-old female with a rare form of congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMS) associated with longstanding muscle fatigability, and to investigate the underlying pathophysiology. METHODS We used whole-cell voltage clamping to compare the biophysical parameters of wild-type and Arg1457His-mutant Nav 1.4. RESULTS Clinical and neurophysiological evaluation revealed features consistent with CMS. Sequencing of candidate genes indicated no abnormalities. However, analysis of SCN4A, the gene encoding the skeletal muscle sodium channel Nav 1.4, revealed a homozygous mutation predicting an arginine-to-histidine substitution at position 1457 (Arg1457His), which maps to the channel's voltage sensor, specifically D4/S4. Whole-cell patch clamp studies revealed that the mutant required longer hyperpolarization to recover from fast inactivation, which produced a profound use-dependent current attenuation not seen in the wild type. The mutant channel also had a marked hyperpolarizing shift in its voltage dependence of inactivation as well as slowed inactivation kinetics. INTERPRETATION We conclude that Arg1457His compromises muscle fiber excitability. The mutant fast-inactivates with significantly less depolarization, and it recovers only after extended hyperpolarization. The resulting enhancement in its use dependence reduces channel availability, which explains the patient's muscle fatigability. Arg1457His offers molecular insight into a rare form of CMS precipitated by sodium channel inactivation defects. Given this channel's involvement in other muscle disorders such as paramyotonia congenita and hyperkalemic periodic paralysis, our study exemplifies how variations within the same gene can give rise to multiple distinct dysfunctions and phenotypes, revealing residues important in basic channel function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W David Arnold
- Department of Neurology, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Plomp JJ, Morsch M, Phillips WD, Verschuuren JJGM. Electrophysiological analysis of neuromuscular synaptic function in myasthenia gravis patients and animal models. Exp Neurol 2015; 270:41-54. [PMID: 25620417 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2015.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2014] [Revised: 01/07/2015] [Accepted: 01/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Study of the electrophysiological function of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is instrumental in the understanding of the symptoms and pathophysiology of myasthenia gravis (MG), an autoimmune disorder characterized by fluctuating and fatigable muscle weakness. Most patients have autoantibodies to the acetylcholine receptor at the NMJ. However, in recent years autoantibodies to other crucial postsynaptic membrane proteins have been found in previously 'seronegative' MG patients. Electromyographical recording of compound and single-fibre muscle action potentials provides a crucial in vivo method to determine neuromuscular transmission failure while ex vivo (miniature) endplate potential recordings can reveal the precise synaptic impairment. Here we will review these electrophysiological methods used to assess NMJ function and discuss their application and typical results found in the diagnostic and experimental study of patients and animal models of the several forms of MG.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaap J Plomp
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Marco Morsch
- Motor Neuron Disease Research Group, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Witting N, Crone C, Duno M, Vissing J. Clinical and neurophysiological response to pharmacological treatment of DOK7 congenital myasthenia in an older patient. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2015; 130:168-70. [PMID: 25625551 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2015.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2014] [Revised: 01/05/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2015] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Nanna Witting
- Neuromuscular Research Unit and Department of Neurology 2081 Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Clarissa Crone
- Department of Neurophysiology 3061 Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Morten Duno
- Department of Clinical Genetics 4062 Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - John Vissing
- Neuromuscular Research Unit and Department of Neurology 2081 Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Tan-Sindhunata MB, Mathijssen IB, Smit M, Baas F, de Vries JI, van der Voorn JP, Kluijt I, Hagen MA, Blom EW, Sistermans E, Meijers-Heijboer H, Waisfisz Q, Weiss MM, Groffen AJ. Identification of a Dutch founder mutation in MUSK causing fetal akinesia deformation sequence. Eur J Hum Genet 2014; 23:1151-7. [PMID: 25537362 PMCID: PMC4538208 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2014.273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2014] [Revised: 10/29/2014] [Accepted: 11/10/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Fetal akinesia deformation sequence (FADS) refers to a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of disorders with congenital malformations related to impaired fetal movement. FADS can result from mutations in CHRNG, CHRNA1, CHRND, DOK7 and RAPSN; however, these genes only account for a minority of cases. Here we identify MUSK as a novel cause of lethal FADS. Fourteen affected fetuses from a Dutch genetic isolate were traced back to common ancestors 11 generations ago. Homozygosity mapping in two fetuses revealed MUSK as a candidate gene. All tested cases carried an identical homozygous variant c.1724T>C; p.(Ile575Thr) in the intracellular domain of MUSK. The carrier frequency in the genetic isolate was 8%, exclusively found in heterozygous carriers. Consistent with the established role of MUSK as a tyrosine kinase that orchestrates neuromuscular synaptogenesis, the fetal myopathy was accompanied by impaired acetylcholine receptor clustering and reduced tyrosine kinase activity at motor nerve endings. A functional assay in myocytes derived from human fetuses confirmed that the variant blocks MUSK-dependent motor endplate formation. Taken together, the results strongly support a causal role of this founder mutation in MUSK, further expanding the gene set associated with FADS and offering new opportunities for prenatal genetic testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Inge B Mathijssen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Margriet Smit
- Department of Clinical Genetics, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Frank Baas
- Department of Genome Analysis, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Johanna I de Vries
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Research Institute MOVE, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Irma Kluijt
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marleen A Hagen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Research Institute MOVE, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eveline W Blom
- Department of Clinical Genetics, MUMC, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Erik Sistermans
- Department of Clinical Genetics, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hanne Meijers-Heijboer
- 1] Department of Clinical Genetics, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands [2] Department of Clinical Genetics, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Quinten Waisfisz
- Department of Clinical Genetics, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marjan M Weiss
- Department of Clinical Genetics, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alexander J Groffen
- 1] Department of Clinical Genetics, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands [2] Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognition Research, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Vrinten C, van der Zwaag AM, Weinreich SS, Scholten RJPM, Verschuuren JJGM. Ephedrine for myasthenia gravis, neonatal myasthenia and the congenital myasthenic syndromes. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2014; 2014:CD010028. [PMID: 25515947 PMCID: PMC7387729 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd010028.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myasthenia is a condition in which neuromuscular transmission is affected by antibodies against neuromuscular junction components (autoimmune myasthenia gravis, MG; and neonatal myasthenia gravis, NMG) or by defects in genes for neuromuscular junction proteins (congenital myasthenic syndromes, CMSs). Clinically, some individuals seem to benefit from treatment with ephedrine, but its effects and adverse effects have not been systematically evaluated. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects and adverse effects of ephedrine in people with autoimmune MG, transient neonatal MG, and the congenital myasthenic syndromes. SEARCH METHODS On 17 November 2014, we searched the Cochrane Neuromuscular Disease Group Specialized Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE and EMBASE. We also searched reference lists of articles, conference proceedings of relevant conferences, and prospective trial registers. In addition, we contacted manufacturers and researchers in the field. SELECTION CRITERIA We considered randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs comparing ephedrine as a single or add-on treatment with any other active treatment, placebo, or no treatment in adults or children with autoimmune MG, NMG, or CMSs. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed study design and quality, and extracted data. We contacted study authors for additional information. We collected information on adverse effects from included articles, and contacted authors. MAIN RESULTS We found no RCTs or quasi-RCTs, and therefore could not establish the effect of ephedrine on MG, NMG and CMSs. We describe the results of 53 non-randomised studies narratively in the Discussion section, including observations of endurance, muscle strength and quality of life. Effects may differ depending on the type of myasthenia. Thirty-seven studies were in participants with CMS, five in participants with MG, and in 11 the precise form of myasthenia was unknown. We found no studies for NMG. Reported adverse effects included tachycardia, sleep disturbances, nervousness, and withdrawal symptoms. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There was no evidence available from RCTs or quasi-RCTs, but some observations from non-randomised studies are available. There is a need for more evidence from suitable forms of prospective RCTs, such as series of n-of-one RCTs, that use appropriate and validated outcome measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Vrinten
- VU University Medical CenterCommunity Genetics Section, Clinical GeneticsBS7, D450PO Box 7057AmsterdamNetherlands1007 MB
| | - Angeli M van der Zwaag
- VU University Medical CenterCommunity Genetics Section, Clinical GeneticsBS7, D450PO Box 7057AmsterdamNetherlands1007 MB
| | - Stephanie S Weinreich
- VU University Medical CenterCommunity Genetics Section, Clinical GeneticsBS7, D450PO Box 7057AmsterdamNetherlands1007 MB
| | - Rob JPM Scholten
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care / University Medical Center UtrechtDutch Cochrane CentreRoom Str. 6.126P.O. Box 85500UtrechtNetherlands3508 GA
| | - Jan JGM Verschuuren
- Leiden University Medical CenterDepartment of NeurologyPO Box 9600LeidenNetherlands2300 RC
| | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Shen XM, Selcen D, Brengman J, Engel AG. Mutant SNAP25B causes myasthenia, cortical hyperexcitability, ataxia, and intellectual disability. Neurology 2014; 83:2247-55. [PMID: 25381298 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000001079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify and characterize the molecular basis of a syndrome associated with myasthenia, cortical hyperexcitability, cerebellar ataxia, and intellectual disability. METHODS We performed in vitro microelectrode studies of neuromuscular transmission, performed exome and Sanger sequencing, and analyzed functional consequences of the identified mutation in expression studies. RESULTS Neuromuscular transmission at patient endplates was compromised by reduced evoked quantal release. Exome sequencing identified a dominant de novo variant, p.Ile67Asn, in SNAP25B, a SNARE protein essential for exocytosis of synaptic vesicles from nerve terminals and of dense-core vesicles from endocrine cells. Ca(2+)-triggered exocytosis is initiated when synaptobrevin attached to synaptic vesicles (v-SNARE) assembles with SNAP25B and syntaxin anchored in the presynaptic membrane (t-SNAREs) into an α-helical coiled-coil held together by hydrophobic interactions. Pathogenicity of the Ile67Asn mutation was confirmed by 2 measures. First, the Ca(2+) triggered fusion of liposomes incorporating v-SNARE with liposomes containing t-SNAREs was hindered when t-SNAREs harbored the mutant SNAP25B moiety. Second, depolarization of bovine chromaffin cells transfected with mutant SNAP25B or with mutant plus wild-type SNAP25B markedly reduced depolarization-evoked exocytosis compared with wild-type transfected cells. CONCLUSION Ile67Asn variant in SNAP25B is pathogenic because it inhibits synaptic vesicle exocytosis. We attribute the deleterious effects of the mutation to disruption of the hydrophobic α-helical coiled-coil structure of the SNARE complex by replacement of a highly hydrophobic isoleucine by a strongly hydrophilic asparagine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Ming Shen
- From the Department of Neurology and Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.
| | - Duygu Selcen
- From the Department of Neurology and Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Joan Brengman
- From the Department of Neurology and Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Andrew G Engel
- From the Department of Neurology and Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Das AS, Agamanolis DP, Cohen BH. Use of next-generation sequencing as a diagnostic tool for congenital myasthenic syndrome. Pediatr Neurol 2014; 51:717-20. [PMID: 25194721 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2014.07.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2014] [Revised: 07/29/2014] [Accepted: 07/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The clinical presentation of congenital myasthenic syndromes is similar to many other neuromuscular disorders of infancy, and with 12 known discrete genetic forms of congenital myasthenic syndromes, both the diagnosis and treatment decisions present clinical challenges. PATIENT DESCRIPTION We report a 20-month-old boy with rapsyn deficiency. At birth, he presented with a weak cry, hypotonia, joint contractures, and facial deformity. Because of respiratory difficulty associated with muscle fatigue, he spent a total of 71 days in the neonatal intensive care unit and 47 days in the pediatric intensive care unit. Imaging study results were normal, along with a battery of metabolic tests and electrodiagnostic studies. A limited genetic evaluation for reversible cytochrome c oxidase deficiency was negative, as was the oligonucleotide microarray. A muscle biopsy demonstrated myofiber atrophy in a pattern consistent with early denervation. Based on nonspecific and nondiagnostic results, whole-exome (next generation) sequencing was performed. This study identified two confirmed pathogenic mutations in the RAPSN gene that are associated with congenital myasthenic syndrome (OMIM 608931). The patient was treated with pyridostigmine at 16 months of age, which resulted in a dramatic improvement in muscle tone and strength and a steady resolution of joint contractures. Four months after treatment was initiated, he was beginning to bear weight and was able to sit unsupported and vocalize full words. CONCLUSIONS This patient serves to highlight next-generation sequencing as an important diagnostic tool that can result in life-saving treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alvin S Das
- Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, Ohio
| | - Dimitri P Agamanolis
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Akron Children's Hospital, Akron, Ohio; Department of Pathology, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, Ohio
| | - Bruce H Cohen
- Division of Neurology, NeuroDevelopmental Science Center, Akron Children's Hospital, Akron, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, Ohio.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
McElnea EM, Stephenson K, Lanigan B, Flitcroft I. An ocular motility conundrum. BMJ Case Rep 2014; 2014:bcr-2014-206862. [PMID: 25349186 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2014-206862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Two siblings, an 11-year-old boy and a 7-year-old girl presented with bilateral symmetrical ptosis and limited eye movements. Having already been reviewed on a number of occasions by a variety of specialists in multiple hospital settings a diagnosis of their ocular motility disorder had remained elusive. We describe their cases, outline the differential diagnosis and review the investigations performed which were influential in finally making a diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kirk Stephenson
- Department of Ophthalmology, Temple Street Children's University Hospital, Dublin 1, Ireland
| | - Bernie Lanigan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Temple Street Children's University Hospital, Dublin 1, Ireland
| | - Ian Flitcroft
- Department of Ophthalmology, Temple Street Children's University Hospital, Dublin 1, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Mihailovska E, Raith M, Valencia RG, Fischer I, Al Banchaabouchi M, Herbst R, Wiche G. Neuromuscular synapse integrity requires linkage of acetylcholine receptors to postsynaptic intermediate filament networks via rapsyn-plectin 1f complexes. Mol Biol Cell 2014; 25:4130-49. [PMID: 25318670 PMCID: PMC4263455 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e14-06-1174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
P1f, a specific isoform of the cytolinker protein plectin, bridges AChRs to the desmin IF network of myofibers via direct interaction with the AChR-scaffolding protein rapsyn. P1f-mediated IF linkage is crucial for the formation and maintenance of AChR clusters, postsynaptic organization of the NMJ, and body locomotion. Mutations in the cytolinker protein plectin lead to grossly distorted morphology of neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) in patients suffering from epidermolysis bullosa simplex (EBS)-muscular dystrophy (MS) with myasthenic syndrome (MyS). Here we investigated whether plectin contributes to the structural integrity of NMJs by linking them to the postsynaptic intermediate filament (IF) network. Live imaging of acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) in cultured myotubes differentiated ex vivo from immortalized plectin-deficient myoblasts revealed them to be highly mobile and unable to coalesce into stable clusters, in contrast to wild-type cells. We found plectin isoform 1f (P1f) to bridge AChRs and IFs via direct interaction with the AChR-scaffolding protein rapsyn in an isoform-specific manner; forced expression of P1f in plectin-deficient cells rescued both compromised AChR clustering and IF network anchoring. In conditional plectin knockout mice with gene disruption in muscle precursor/satellite cells (Pax7-Cre/cKO), uncoupling of AChRs from IFs was shown to lead to loss of postsynaptic membrane infoldings and disorganization of the NMJ microenvironment, including its invasion by microtubules. In their phenotypic behavior, mutant mice closely mimicked EBS-MD-MyS patients, including impaired body balance, severe muscle weakness, and reduced life span. Our study demonstrates that linkage to desmin IF networks via plectin is crucial for formation and maintenance of AChR clusters, postsynaptic NMJ organization, and body locomotion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva Mihailovska
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Max F. Perutz Laboratories, University of Vienna, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Marianne Raith
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Max F. Perutz Laboratories, University of Vienna, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Rocio G Valencia
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Max F. Perutz Laboratories, University of Vienna, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Irmgard Fischer
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Max F. Perutz Laboratories, University of Vienna, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Mumna Al Banchaabouchi
- Preclinical Phenotyping Facility, Campus Science Support Facilities, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Ruth Herbst
- Center for Brain Research and Institute of Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Gerhard Wiche
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Max F. Perutz Laboratories, University of Vienna, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Inherited disorders of the neuromuscular junction: an update. J Neurol 2014; 261:2234-43. [PMID: 25305004 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-014-7520-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2014] [Accepted: 09/23/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Congenital myasthenic syndromes (CMSs) are a group of heterogeneous inherited disorders caused by mutations in genes affecting the function and structure of the neuromuscular junction. This review updates the reader on established and novel subtypes of congenital myasthenia, and the treatment strategies for these increasingly heterogeneous disorders. The discovery of mutations associated with the N-glycosylation pathway and in the family of serine peptidases has shown that causative genes encoding ubiquitously expressed molecules can produce defects at the human neuromuscular junction. By contrast, mutations in lipoprotein-like receptor 4 (LRP4), a long-time candidate gene for congenital myasthenia, and a novel phenotype of myasthenia with distal weakness and atrophy due to mutations in AGRN have now been described. In addition, a pathogenic splicing mutation in a nonfunctional exon of CHRNA1 has been reported emphasizing the importance of analysing nonfunctional exons in genetic analysis. The benefit of salbutamol and ephedrine alone or combined with pyridostigmine or 3,4-DAP is increasingly being reported for particular subtypes of CMS.
Collapse
|
46
|
|
47
|
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Neuromuscular channelopathies are heterogeneous disorders with marked phenotypic and genotypic variability. These include non-dystrophic myotonia (NDM), periodic paralysis (PP), and congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMS). Their diverse clinical manifestations remain a challenge in diagnosis and management to this date. These disorders impact quality of life and cause lifelong disabling symptoms. Treatment options are few and not FDA-approved. This is largely due to a paucity of large, randomized clinical trials in these rare diseases. Challenges of conducting such trials include the rarity of these disorders and the genetic heterogeneity. Physicians rely on off-label use of drugs to treat muscle channelopathies to reduce morbidity and improve quality of life. Besides pharmacological treatment, dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, awareness of triggers, and genetic counseling also play an important role in long-term disease management. This article reviews the current management strategies for neuromuscular channelopathies.
Collapse
|
48
|
Clinical and molecular analysis of a novel COLQ missense mutation causing congenital myasthenic syndrome in a Syrian family. Pediatr Neurol 2014; 51:165-9. [PMID: 24938146 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2014.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2014] [Revised: 03/12/2014] [Accepted: 03/15/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Congenital myasthenic syndromes with end-plate acetylcholinesterase deficiency are rare autosomal recessive disorders characterized by onset of the disease in early childhood, general weakness exacerbated by exertion, ophthalmoplegia, and refractoriness to anticholinesterase drugs. To date, all reported cases have been attributed to mutations in 18 genes including the COLQ gene that encodes a specific collagen that anchors acetylcholinesterase at the basal lamina of the neuromuscular junction. We identified a Syrian family with two children of consanguineous parents from two branches affected with congenital myasthenic syndrome with end-plate acetylcholinesterase deficiency. METHOD The absence of acetylcholinesterase antibodies was demonstrated biochemically. Consequently, all the coding regions, exon-intron boundaries, and the 5' and 3' untranslated regions of the COLQ gene were amplified and sequenced using the Sanger sequencing method. RESULTS We observed that the severity of the phenotype in the two affected children differed. One child had mild symptoms that included difficulties in gait and feeding with mild respiratory insufficiency. Her sibling died in the first months of life because of severe respiratory failure. The second patient had severe symptoms from birth and has been mechanically ventilated. DNA sequencing revealed a novel homozygous single nucleotide substitution mutation (c.1010T>C) in the COLQ gene in both patients. This substitution leads to a missense amino acid substitution at position 337 of the protein (p.Ile337Thr). This mutation is likely to impair ColQ's trimeric organization and therefore its anchoring within the synaptic basal lamina. CONCLUSION We identified the molecular cause underlying congenital myasthenic syndrome in two patients. The marked phenotypic variation suggests that other factors including modifier genes may affect the severity of this disease.
Collapse
|
49
|
Abstract
With advances in the genetics of muscle disease, the term, muscular dystrophy, has expanded to include mutations in an increasing large list of genes. This review discusses the genetics, pathophysiology, and potential treatments of the most common forms of muscular dystrophy: Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Becker muscular dystrophy, facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, and myotonic dystrophy. Other forms of muscular dystrophy and other genetic muscle disorders are also discussed to provide an overview of this complex clinical problem.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Perry B Shieh
- Department of Neurology, UCLA Medical Center, 300 Medical Plaza, Suite B-200, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Shin HY, Park HJ, Lee HE, Choi YC, Kim SM. Clinical and Electrophysiologic Responses to Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors in MuSK-Antibody-Positive Myasthenia Gravis: Evidence for Cholinergic Neuromuscular Hyperactivity. J Clin Neurol 2014; 10:119-24. [PMID: 24829597 PMCID: PMC4017014 DOI: 10.3988/jcn.2014.10.2.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2013] [Revised: 10/25/2013] [Accepted: 10/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Patients with muscle-specific tyrosine kinase (MuSK) antibody (MuSK-Ab)-positive myasthenia gravis (MG) show distinct responses to acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEIs). Although clinical responses to AChEIs in MuSK-Ab MG are reasonably well known, little is known about the electrophysiologic responses to AChEIs. We therefore investigated the clinical and electrophysiologic responses to AChEIs in MuSK-Ab-positive MG patients. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the medical records and electrodiagnostic findings of 17 MG patients (10 MuSK-Ab-positive and 7 MuSK-Ab-negative patients) who underwent electrodiagnostic testing before and after a neostigmine test (NT). RESULTS The frequency of intolerance to pyridostigmine bromide (PB) was higher in MuSK-Ab-positive patients than in MuSK-Ab-negative patients (50% vs. 0%, respectively; p=0.044), while the maximum tolerable dose of PB was lower in the former (90 mg/day vs. 480 mg/day, p=0.023). The frequency of positive NT results was significantly lower in MuSK-Ab-positive patients than in MuSK-Ab-negative patients (40% vs. 100%, p=0.035), while the nicotinic side effects of neostigmine were more frequent in the former (80% vs. 14.3%, p=0.015). Repetitive compound muscle action potentials (R-CMAPs) developed more frequently after NT in MuSK-Ab-positive patients than in MuSK-Ab-negative patients (90% vs. 14.3%, p=0.004). The frequency of a high-frequency-stimulation-induced decrement-increment pattern (DIP) was higher in MuSK-Ab-positive patients than in MuSK-Ab-negative patients (100% vs. 17.7%, p=0.003). CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that MuSK-Ab-positive MG patients exhibit unique and hyperactive responses to AChEIs. Furthermore, R-CMAP and DIP development on a standard AChEI dose may be a distinct neurophysiologic feature indicative of MuSK-Ab-positive MG.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ha Young Shin
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyung Jun Park
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyo Eun Lee
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young-Chul Choi
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seung Min Kim
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|