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Mac CH, Tai HM, Huang SM, Peng HH, Sharma AK, Nguyen GLT, Chang PJ, Wang JT, Chang Y, Lin YJ, Sung HW. Orally Ingested Self-Powered Stimulators for Targeted Gut-Brain Axis Electrostimulation to Treat Obesity and Metabolic Disorders. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2310351. [PMID: 38591658 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202310351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Obesity is a significant health concern that often leads to metabolic dysfunction and chronic diseases. This study introduces a novel approach to combat obesity using orally ingested self-powered electrostimulators. These electrostimulators consist of piezoelectric BaTiO3 (BTO) particles conjugated with capsaicin (Cap) and aim to activate the vagus nerve. Upon ingestion by diet-induced obese (DIO) mice, the BTO@Cap particles specifically target and bind to Cap-sensitive sensory nerve endings in the gastric mucosa. In response to stomach peristalsis, these particles generate electrical signals. The signals travel via the gut-brain axis, ultimately influencing the hypothalamus. By enhancing satiety signals in the brain, this neuromodulatory intervention reduces food intake, promotes energy metabolism, and demonstrates minimal toxicity. Over a 3-week period of daily treatments, DIO mice treated with BTO@Cap particles show a significant reduction in body weight compared to control mice, while maintaining their general locomotor activity. Furthermore, this BTO@Cap particle-based treatment mitigates various metabolic alterations associated with obesity. Importantly, this noninvasive and easy-to-administer intervention holds potential for addressing other intracerebral neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cam-Hoa Mac
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Hsien-Meng Tai
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Min Huang
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Nanomedicine, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, 350401, Taiwan
| | - Hsu-Hsia Peng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Environmental Sciences, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Amit Kumar Sharma
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Giang Le Thi Nguyen
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Ju Chang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Jui-To Wang
- Neurological Institute, Department of Neurosurgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, 11217, Taiwan
- Institute of Brain Science, National Yang-Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, 11221, Taiwan
| | - Yen Chang
- Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation and School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, 97004, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Jung Lin
- Research Center for Applied Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Hsing-Wen Sung
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
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Wessel CR, Karakas C, Haneef Z, Mutchnick I. Vagus nerve stimulation and heart rate variability: A scoping review of a somatic oscillatory signal. Clin Neurophysiol 2024; 160:95-107. [PMID: 38412747 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2024.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
The goal of this review is to synthesize the literature on vagus nerve stimulator (VNS)-related changes in heart rate variability (HRV) in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) and assess the role of these changes in seizure relief. A scoping literature review was performed with the following inclusion criteria: primary articles written in English, involved implantable VNS in humans, and had HRV as a primary outcome. Twenty-nine studies were retrieved, however with considerable heterogeneity in study methods. The overall depression in HRV seen in DRE patients compared to healthy controls persisted even after VNS implant, indicating that achieving "healthy" HRV is not necessary for VNS therapeutic success. Within DRE patients, changes in frequency domain parameters six months after VNS implant returned to baseline after a year. The mechanism of how VNS reduces seizure burden does not appear to be significantly related to alterations in baseline HRV. However, the subtlety of sympathetic/parasympathetic signaling likely requires a more structured approach to experimental and analytic techniques than currently found in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin R Wessel
- University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville KY 40202, USA.
| | - Cemal Karakas
- University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville KY 40202, USA; Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Neurology, University of Louisville, Louisville KY 40202, USA; Norton Neuroscience Institute and Children's Hospital, Louisville KY 40241, USA
| | - Zulfi Haneef
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College, Houston TX 77030, USA; Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ian Mutchnick
- University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville KY 40202, USA; Norton Neuroscience Institute and Children's Hospital, Louisville KY 40241, USA; University of Louisville Department of Neurosurgery, Louisville KY 40202, USA
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Pukropski J, Baumann J, Jordan A, Bausch M, von Wrede R, Surges R. Short-term effects of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation on T-wave alternans in people with focal epilepsy - An exploratory pilot study. Epilepsy Behav Rep 2024; 26:100657. [PMID: 38495402 PMCID: PMC10940126 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebr.2024.100657] [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: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
High levels of T-wave alternans (TWA) are linked to an increased risk of sudden cardiac death. People with epilepsy display elevated TWA levels that are decreased by chronic vagus nerve stimulation via implanted devices after 2-4 weeks or later. Our objective was to explore short-term effects of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) on TWA. Five patients (3 female) with focal epilepsy undergoing video-EEG monitoring were included. TWA levels were determined using a one-channel modified lead I ECG via an open-source TWA-algorithm on two consecutive days, 1 h before, during and after tVNS via the left auricle. Data are given as mean ± SE. Mean TWA at baseline was 3.8 ± 0.4 µV and 3.0 ± 0.6 µV during stimulation on day 2. Stimulations on the second day were associated with TWA reductions by 22 ± 13 % that exceeded stimulation effects on the first day relative to baseline (p < 0.05). Linear mixed-models revealed effects of both stimulation (p < 0.05) and stimulation number (p < 0.005). Normalized TWA showed reproducible peak reductions at both days within 35 min after the initiation of tVNS (p < 0.05). Our observations suggest that tVNS has short-term effects on TWA, supporting the notion that vagus nerve stimulation has a beneficial impact on electrical cardiac properties.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jan Baumann
- Department of Epileptology, University Hospital Bonn, Germany
| | - Arthur Jordan
- Department of Epileptology, University Hospital Bonn, Germany
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Peltola J, Surges R, Voges B, von Oertzen TJ. Expert opinion on diagnosis and management of epilepsy-associated comorbidities. Epilepsia Open 2024; 9:15-32. [PMID: 37876310 PMCID: PMC10839328 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Apart from seizure freedom, the presence of comorbidities related to neurological, cardiovascular, or psychiatric disorders is the largest determinant of a reduced health-related quality of life in people with epilepsy (PwE). However, comorbidities are often underrecognized and undertreated, and clinical management of comorbid conditions can be challenging. The focus of a comprehensive treatment regimen should maximize seizure control while optimizing clinical management of treatable comorbidities to improve a person's quality of life and overall health. A panel of four European epileptologists with expertise in their respective fields of epilepsy-related comorbidities combined the latest available scientific evidence with clinical expertise and collaborated to provide consensus practical advice to improve the identification and management of comorbidities in PwE. This review provides a critical evaluation for the diagnosis and management of sleep-wake disorders, cardiovascular diseases, cognitive dysfunction, and depression in PwE. Whenever possible, clinical data have been provided. The PubMed database was the main search source for the literature review. The deleterious pathophysiological processes underlying neurological, cardiovascular, or psychiatric comorbidities in PwE interact with the processes responsible for generating seizures to increase cerebral and physiological dysfunction. This can increase the likelihood of developing drug-resistant epilepsy; therefore, early identification of comorbidities and intervention is imperative. The practical evidence-based advice presented in this article may help clinical neurologists and other specialist physicians responsible for the care and management of PwE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jukka Peltola
- Faculty of Medicine and Health TechnologyTampere UniversityTampereFinland
- Department of NeurologyTampere University HospitalTampereFinland
| | - Rainer Surges
- Department of EpileptologyUniversity Hospital BonnBonnGermany
| | - Berthold Voges
- Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Center HamburgProtestant Hospital AlsterdorfHamburgGermany
| | - Tim J. von Oertzen
- Medical FacultyJohannes Kepler UniversityLinzAustria
- Department of Neurology 1, Neuromed CampusKepler University HospitalLinzAustria
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Ryan JM, Wagner KT, Yerram S, Concannon C, Lin JX, Rooney P, Hanrahan B, Titoff V, Connolly NL, Cranmer R, DeMaria N, Xia X, Mykins B, Erickson S, Couderc JP, Schifitto G, Hughes I, Wang D, Erba G, Auerbach DS. Heart rate and autonomic biomarkers distinguish convulsive epileptic vs. functional or dissociative seizures. Seizure 2023; 111:178-186. [PMID: 37660533 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2023.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE 20-40% of individuals whose seizures are not controlled by anti-seizure medications exhibit manifestations comparable to epileptic seizures (ES), but there are no EEG correlates. These events are called functional or dissociative seizures (FDS). Due to limited access to EEG-monitoring and inconclusive results, we aimed to develop an alternative diagnostic tool that distinguishes ES vs. FDS. We evaluated the temporal evolution of ECG-based measures of autonomic function (heart rate variability, HRV) to determine whether they distinguish ES vs. FDS. METHODS The prospective study includes patients admitted to the University of Rochester Epilepsy Monitoring Unit. Participants are 18-65 years old, without therapies or co-morbidities associated with altered autonomics. A habitual ES or FDS is recorded during admission. HRV analysis is performed to evaluate the temporal changes in autonomic function during the peri‑ictal period (150-minutes each pre-/post-ictal). We determined if autonomic measures distinguish ES vs. FDS. RESULTS The study includes 53 ES and 46 FDS. Temporal evolution of HR and autonomics significantly differ surrounding ES vs. FDS. The pre-to-post-ictal change (delta) in HR differs surrounding ES vs. FDS, stratified for convulsive and non-convulsive events. Post-ictal HR, total autonomic (SDNN & Total Power), vagal (RMSSD & HF), and baroreflex (LF) function differ for convulsive ES vs. convulsive FDS. HR distinguishes non-convulsive ES vs. non-convulsive FDS with ROC>0.7, sensitivity>70%, but specificity<50%. HR-delta and post-ictal HR, SDNN, RMSSD, LF, HF, and Total Power each distinguish convulsive ES vs. convulsive FDS (ROC, 0.83-0.98). Models with HR-delta and post-ictal HR provide the highest diagnostic accuracy for convulsive ES vs. convulsive FDS: 92% sensitivity, 94% specificity, ROC 0.99). SIGNIFICANCE HR and HRV measures accurately distinguish convulsive, but not non-convulsive, events (ES vs. FDS). Results establish the framework for future studies to apply this diagnostic tool to more heterogeneous populations, and on out-of-hospital recordings, particularly for populations without access to epilepsy monitoring units.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin M Ryan
- Department of Pharmacology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
| | - Kyle T Wagner
- Department of Pharmacology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
| | - Sushma Yerram
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, United States
| | - Cathleen Concannon
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, United States
| | - Jennifer X Lin
- School of Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, United States
| | - Patrick Rooney
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, United States
| | - Brian Hanrahan
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, United States
| | - Victoria Titoff
- Department of Neurology-Epilepsy, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States; Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, United States
| | - Noreen L Connolly
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, United States
| | - Ramona Cranmer
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, United States
| | - Natalia DeMaria
- Department of Pharmacology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
| | - Xiaojuan Xia
- Clinical Cardiology Research Center Medicine-Cardiology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, United States
| | - Betty Mykins
- Clinical Cardiology Research Center Medicine-Cardiology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, United States
| | - Steven Erickson
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, United States
| | - Jean-Philippe Couderc
- Clinical Cardiology Research Center Medicine-Cardiology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, United States
| | - Giovanni Schifitto
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, United States
| | - Inna Hughes
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, United States
| | - Dongliang Wang
- Department of Public Health, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
| | - Giuseppe Erba
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, United States
| | - David S Auerbach
- Department of Pharmacology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States.
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Fialho GL, Pang TD, Kong WY, Tran AP, Yu CG, Rodriguez ID, Nearing BD, Waks JW, Maher TR, Clarke JR, Shepherd A, D'Avila A, Schachter SC, Verrier RL. Individuals with chronic epilepsy have elevated P-wave heterogeneity comparable to patients with atrial fibrillation. Epilepsia 2023; 64:2361-2372. [PMID: 37329175 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Identification of epilepsy patients with elevated risk for atrial fibrillation (AF) is critical given the heightened morbidity and premature mortality associated with this arrhythmia. Epilepsy is a worldwide health problem affecting nearly 3.4 million people in the United States alone. The potential for increased risk for AF in patients with epilepsy is not well appreciated, despite recent evidence from a national survey of 1.4 million hospitalizations indicating that AF is the most common arrhythmia in people with epilepsy. METHODS We analyzed inter-lead heterogeneity of P-wave morphology, a marker reflecting arrhythmogenic nonuniformities of activation/conduction in atrial tissue. The study groups consisted of 96 patients with epilepsy and 44 consecutive patients with AF in sinus rhythm before clinically indicated ablation. Individuals without cardiovascular or neurological conditions (n = 77) were also assessed. We calculated P-wave heterogeneity (PWH) by second central moment analysis of simultaneous beats from leads II, III, and aVR ("atrial dedicated leads") from standard 12-lead electrocardiography (ECG) recordings from admission day to the epilepsy monitoring unit (EMU). RESULTS Female patients composed 62.5%, 59.6%, and 57.1% of the epilepsy, AF, and control subjects, respectively. The AF cohort was older (66 ± 1.1 years) than the epilepsy group (44 ± 1.8 years, p < .001). The level of PWH was greater in the epilepsy group than in the control group (67 ± 2.6 vs. 57 ± 2.5 μV, p = .046) and reached levels observed in AF patients (67 ± 2.6 vs. 68 ± 4.9 μV, p = .99). In multiple linear regression analysis, PWH levels in individuals with epilepsy were mainly correlated with the PR interval and could be related to sympathetic tone. Epilepsy remained associated with PWH after adjustments for cardiac risk factors, age, and sex. SIGNIFICANCE Patients with chronic epilepsy have increased PWH comparable to levels observed in patients with AF, while being ~20 years younger, suggesting an acceleration in structural change and/or cardiac electrical instability. These observations are consistent with emerging evidence of an "epileptic heart" condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme L Fialho
- Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, Brazil
- Departments of Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Trudy D Pang
- Departments of Neurology, Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Wan Yee Kong
- Departments of Neurology, Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Anthony P Tran
- Departments of Neurology, Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Calvin G Yu
- Departments of Neurology, Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Ivo D Rodriguez
- Departments of Neurology, Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Bruce D Nearing
- Departments of Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Jonathan W Waks
- Departments of Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Timothy R Maher
- Departments of Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - John-Ross Clarke
- Departments of Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Alyssa Shepherd
- Departments of Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Andre D'Avila
- Departments of Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Steven C Schachter
- Departments of Neurology, Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Richard L Verrier
- Departments of Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
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Singh V, Ryan JM, Auerbach DS. It is premature for a unified hypothesis of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy: A great amount of research is still needed to understand the multisystem cascade. Epilepsia 2023; 64:2006-2010. [PMID: 37129136 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Singh
- Department of Pharmacology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA
| | - Justin M Ryan
- Department of Pharmacology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA
| | - David S Auerbach
- Department of Pharmacology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA
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Fang YT, Lin YT, Tseng WL, Tseng P, Hua GL, Chao YJ, Wu YJ. Neuroimmunomodulation of vagus nerve stimulation and the therapeutic implications. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1173987. [PMID: 37484689 PMCID: PMC10358778 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1173987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a technology that provides electrical stimulation to the cervical vagus nerve and can be applied in the treatment of a wide variety of neuropsychiatric and systemic diseases. VNS exerts its effect by stimulating vagal afferent and efferent fibers, which project upward to the brainstem nuclei and the relayed circuits and downward to the internal organs to influence the autonomic, neuroendocrine, and neuroimmunology systems. The neuroimmunomodulation effect of VNS is mediated through the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway that regulates immune cells and decreases pro-inflammatory cytokines. Traditional and non-invasive VNS have Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved indications for patients with drug-refractory epilepsy, treatment-refractory major depressive disorders, and headaches. The number of clinical trials and translational studies that explore the therapeutic potentials and mechanisms of VNS is increasing. In this review, we first introduced the anatomical and physiological bases of the vagus nerve and the immunomodulating functions of VNS. We covered studies that investigated the mechanisms of VNS and its therapeutic implications for a spectrum of brain disorders and systemic diseases in the context of neuroimmunomodulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ting Fang
- Department of Neurology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ye-Ting Lin
- Department of Surgery, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Wu-Lung Tseng
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Philip Tseng
- Cross College Elite Program, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Research Center for Mind, Brain and Learning, National Chengchi University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Gia-Linh Hua
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Jui Chao
- Department of Surgery, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Jen Wu
- Department of Neurology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
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Bindra A. Perioperative pearls on epilepsy surgery. Int Anesthesiol Clin 2023; 61:19-28. [PMID: 37249170 DOI: 10.1097/aia.0000000000000401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Bindra
- Department of Neuroanaesthesiology and Critical Care, JPNA Trauma Centre, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, Delhi, India
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10
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Pang TD, Nearing BD, Schachter SC, Verrier RL. Epileptic seizures and Epilepsy Monitoring Unit admission disclose latent cardiac electrical instability. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 135:108881. [PMID: 36027867 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sudden cardiac arrest results from cardiac electrical instability and is 3-fold more frequent in patients with chronic epilepsy than in the general population. We hypothesized that focal to bilateral tonic-clonic seizures (FTBTCS) would acutely impact T-wave alternans (TWA), a marker of cardiac electrical instability linked to an elevated risk for sudden cardiac death, more than focal seizures (FS) [focal aware seizures (FAS) and focal with impaired awareness seizures (FIAS)], due to their greater sympathetic stimulation of the heart. Since stress has been shown to cause significant TWA elevations in patients with heart disease, we also hypothesized that the early days of an inpatient admission to an epilepsy monitoring unit (EMU) would be associated with higher TWA levels compared to later hospital days in patients with chronic epilepsy, presumably due to stress. DESIGN/METHODS We analyzed the acute effects of seizures [FAS, FIAS, FTBTCS, and nonepileptic seizures (NES)] and day of hospital stay on TWA in 18 patients admitted to the EMU using high-resolution wireless electrocardiographic (ECG) patch monitors. RESULTS A total of 5 patients had FTBTCS, 7 patients had FS (2 FAS, 5 FIAS), and 3 patients had NES only during the index hospital stay. Four patients did not have any electroclinical seizures or NES. FTBTCS resulted in marked acute increases in ictal TWA from baseline (2 ± 0.3 µV) to ictal maximum (70 ± 6.1 µV, p < 0.0001), the latter exceeding the 60 µV cut point defined as severely abnormal. By comparison, while FAS and FIAS also provoked significant increases in TWA (from 2 ± 0.5 µV to 30 ± 3.3 µV, p < 0.0001), maximum ictal TWA levels did not reach the 47 µV cut point defined as abnormal. Heart rate increases during FTBTCS from baseline (62 ± 5.8 beats/min) to ictal maximum (134 ± 8.6 beats/min, an increase of 72 ± 7.2 beats/min, p < 0.02) were also greater (p = 0.014) than heart rate increases during FS (from 70 ± 5.2 beats/min to 118 ± 6.2 beats/min, an increase of 48 ± 2.6 beats/min, p < 0.03). In 3 patients with NES, TWA rose mildly during the patients' typical episodes (from 2 ± 0.6 µV to 14 ± 2.6 µV, p < 0.0004), well below the cut point of abnormality, while heart rate increases were observed (from 75 ± 1.3 to 112 ± 8.7 beats/min, an increase of 37 ± 8.9 beats/min, p = 0.03). Patients with EEG-confirmed electroclinical seizures recorded while in the EMU exhibited significantly elevated interictal TWA maxima (61 ± 3.4 µV) on EMU admission day which were similar in magnitude to ictal maxima seen during FTBTCS (70 ± 6.1 µV, p = 0.21). During subsequent days of hospitalization, daily interictal TWA maxima showed gradual habituation in patients with both FS and FTBTCS but not in patients with NES only. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study to our knowledge demonstrating that FTBTCS acutely provoke highly significant increases in TWA to levels that have been associated with heightened risk for sudden cardiac death in other patient populations. We speculate that mortality temporally associated with FTBTCS may, in some cases, be due to sudden cardiac death rather than respiratory failure. In patients with EEG-confirmed epilepsy, hospital admission is associated with interictal TWA maxima that approach those seen during FTBTCS, presumably related to stress during the early phase of hospitalization compared to later in the hospitalization, indicating cardiac electrical instability and potential vulnerability to sudden cardiac death related to stress independent of temporal relationships to seizures. The elevated heart rates observed acutely with seizures and on hospital Day 1 are consistent with a hyperadrenergic state and the effect of elevated sympathetic output on a vulnerable cardiac substrate, a phenomenon termed "the Epileptic Heart."
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Affiliation(s)
- Trudy D Pang
- Departments of Neurology, Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), Boston, MA, United States.
| | - Bruce D Nearing
- Departments of Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), Boston, MA, United States
| | - Steven C Schachter
- Departments of Neurology, Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), Boston, MA, United States; Departments of Neurology, Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States; Consortia for Improving Medicine with Innovation & Technology (CIMIT), Boston, MA, United States
| | - Richard L Verrier
- Departments of Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), Boston, MA, United States
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Tzadok M, Verner R, Kann L, Tungala D, Gordon C, El Tahry R, Fahoum F. Rapid titration of VNS therapy reduces time-to-response in epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 134:108861. [PMID: 35963047 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Common titration strategies for vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) prioritize monitoring of tolerability during small increases in stimulation intensity over several months. Prioritization of tolerability is partially based on how quickly side effects can be perceived and reported by patients, and the delayed onset of clinical benefits from VNS. However, many practices assess the clinical benefit of VNS at one year after implantation, and excessive caution during the titration phase can significantly delay target dosing or prevent a patient from reaching a therapeutic dose entirely. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to characterize the relationship between titration speed and the onset of clinical response to VNS. METHODS To assess differences between more aggressive titration strategies and more conservative ones, we analyzed the relationship between time-to-dose and time-to-response using a weighted Cox regression. The target dose was empirically defined as 1.625 mA output current delivered at 250 microsecond pulse widths at 20 Hz. Patient-level outcomes and dosing data were segregated into fast (<3 months), medium (3-6 months), and slow (>6 months) cohorts based on their titration speed. RESULTS The statistical model revealed a significant relationship between titration speed and onset of clinical response, defined as a 50% reduction from baseline in seizure frequency. Frequency of adverse events reported between each cohort trended toward higher rates of adverse events in adults who were titrated quickly; however, the pediatric population appeared to be more tolerant of titration at any speed. CONCLUSIONS This analysis indicates that faster titration yields faster onset of clinical benefit and is especially practical in the pediatric population, though attempts to accelerate adult titration may still be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Tzadok
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; Pediatric Neurology Unit, Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel.
| | - Ryan Verner
- LivaNova PLC (or a subsidiary), London, Great Britain, United Kingdom
| | - Lennart Kann
- LivaNova PLC (or a subsidiary), London, Great Britain, United Kingdom
| | - Deepika Tungala
- LivaNova PLC (or a subsidiary), London, Great Britain, United Kingdom
| | - Charles Gordon
- LivaNova PLC (or a subsidiary), London, Great Britain, United Kingdom
| | - Riëm El Tahry
- Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Brussels, Belgium; Centre for Refractory Epilepsy, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Firas Fahoum
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; Neurological Institute, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
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12
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Verrier RL, Pang TD, Nearing BD, Schachter SC. The Epileptic Heart and the Case for Routine Use of the Electrocardiogram in Patients with Chronic Epilepsy. Neurol Clin 2022; 40:699-716. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2022.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
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13
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Sanchez-Conde FG, Jimenez-Vazquez EN, Auerbach DS, Jones DK. The ERG1 K+ Channel and Its Role in Neuronal Health and Disease. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:890368. [PMID: 35600076 PMCID: PMC9113952 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.890368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The ERG1 potassium channel, encoded by KCNH2, has long been associated with cardiac electrical excitability. Yet, a growing body of work suggests that ERG1 mediates physiology throughout the human body, including the brain. ERG1 is a regulator of neuronal excitability, ERG1 variants are associated with neuronal diseases (e.g., epilepsy and schizophrenia), and ERG1 serves as a potential therapeutic target for neuronal pathophysiology. This review summarizes the current state-of-the-field regarding the ERG1 channel structure and function, ERG1’s relationship to the mammalian brain and highlights key questions that have yet to be answered.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eric N. Jimenez-Vazquez
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - David S. Auerbach
- Department of Pharmacology, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: David S. Auerbach,
| | - David K. Jones
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- David K. Jones,
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14
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Möbius H, Welkoborsky HJ. Vagus nerve stimulation for conservative therapy-refractive epilepsy and depression. Laryngorhinootologie 2022; 101:S114-S143. [PMID: 35605616 DOI: 10.1055/a-1660-5591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Numerous studies confirm that the vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is an efficient, indirect neuromodulatory therapy with electrically induced current for epilepsy that cannot be treated by epilepsy surgery and is therapy-refractory and for drug therapy-refractory depression. VNS is an established, evidence-based and in the long-term cost-effective therapy in an interdisciplinary overall concept.Long-term data on the safety and tolerance of the method are available despite the heterogeneity of the patient populations. Stimulation-related side effects like hoarseness, paresthesia, cough or dyspnea depend on the stimulation strength and often decrease with continuing therapy duration in the following years. Stimulation-related side effects of VNS can be well influenced by modifying the stimulation parameters. Overall, the invasive vagus nerve stimulation may be considered as a safe and well-tolerated therapy option.For invasive and transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation, antiepileptic and antidepressant as well as positive cognitive effects could be proven. In contrast to drugs, VNS has no negative effect on cognition. In many cases, an improvement of the quality of life is possible.iVNS therapy has a low probability of complete seizure-freedom in cases of focal and genetically generalized epilepsy. It must be considered as palliative therapy, which means that it does not lead to healing and requires the continuation of specific medication. The functional principle is a general reduction of the neuronal excitability. This effect is achieved by a slow increase of the effectiveness sometimes over several years. Responders are those patients who experience a 50% reduction of the seizure incidence. Some studies even reveal seizure-freedom in 20% of the cases. Currently, it is not possible to differentiate between potential responders and non-responders before therapy/implantation.The current technical developments of the iVNS generators of the new generation like closed-loop system (cardiac-based seizure detection, CBSD) reduce also the risk for SUDEP (sudden unexpected death in epilepsy patients), a very rare, lethal complication of epilepsies, beside the seizure severity.iVNS may deteriorate an existing sleep apnea syndrome and therefore requires possible therapy interruption during nighttime (day-night programming or magnet use) beside the close cooperation with sleep physicians.The evaluation of the numerous iVNS trials of the past two decades showed multiple positive effects on other immunological, cardiological, and gastroenterological diseases so that additional therapy indications may be expected depending on future study results. Currently, the vagus nerve stimulation is in the focus of research in the disciplines of psychology, immunology, cardiology as well as pain and plasticity research with the desired potential of future medical application.Beside invasive vagus nerve stimulation with implantation of an IPG and an electrode, also devices for transdermal and thus non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation have been developed during the last years. According to the data that are currently available, they are less effective with regard to the reduction of the seizure severity and duration in cases of therapy-refractory epilepsy and slightly less effective regarding the improvement of depression symptoms. In this context, studies are missing that confirm high evidence of effectiveness. The same is true for the other indications that have been mentioned like tinnitus, cephalgia, gastrointestinal complaints etc. Another disadvantage of transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation is that the stimulators have to be applied actively by the patients and are not permanently active, in contrast to implanted iVNS therapy systems. So they are only intermittently active; furthermore, the therapy adherence is uncertain.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Möbius
- Klinik für HNO-Heilkunde, Kopf- und Halschirurgie, KRH Klinikum Nordstadt, Hannover.,Abt. für HNO-Heilkunde, Kinderkrankenhaus auf der Bult, Hannover
| | - H J Welkoborsky
- Klinik für HNO-Heilkunde, Kopf- und Halschirurgie, KRH Klinikum Nordstadt, Hannover.,Abt. für HNO-Heilkunde, Kinderkrankenhaus auf der Bult, Hannover
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15
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Verrier RL, Libbus I, Nearing BD, KenKnight BH. Multifactorial Benefits of Chronic Vagus Nerve Stimulation on Autonomic Function and Cardiac Electrical Stability in Heart Failure Patients With Reduced Ejection Fraction. Front Physiol 2022; 13:855756. [PMID: 35431984 PMCID: PMC9005779 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.855756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Heart failure with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction is a progressive disease that claims > 352,000 lives annually in the United States alone. Despite the development of an extensive array of pharmacologic and device therapies, prognosis remains poor. Disruption in autonomic balance in the form of heightened sympathetic nerve activity and reduced vagal tone have been established as major causes of heart failure progression. Interest in chronic neuromodulation mediated by vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has intensified in recent years. This review focuses on four main goals: (1) To review the preclinical evidence that supports the concept of a cardioprotective effect of VNS on autonomic function and cardiac electrical stability along with the underlying putative mechanisms. (2) To present the initial clinical experience with chronic VNS in patients with heart failure and highlight the controversial aspects of the findings. (3) To discuss the latest findings of the multifactorial effects of VNS on autonomic tone, baroreceptor sensitivity, and cardiac electrical stability and the state-of-the-art methods employed to monitor these relationships. (4) To discuss the implications of the current findings and the gaps in knowledge that require attention in future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard L. Verrier
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- *Correspondence: Richard L. Verrier, , orcid.org/0000-0001-5602-6793
| | - Imad Libbus
- LivaNova USA, Inc., Houston, TX, United States
| | - Bruce D. Nearing
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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16
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Verrier RL, Pang TD, Nearing BD, Schachter SC. Prolonged QT Interval Predicts All-Cause Mortality in Epilepsy Patients: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Implications. Heart Rhythm 2022; 19:585-587. [PMID: 35033664 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2022.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Richard L Verrier
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, USA.
| | - Trudy D Pang
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, USA
| | - Bruce D Nearing
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, USA
| | - Steven C Schachter
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, USA; Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, USA; Consortia for Improving Medicine with Innovation & Technology (CIMIT), Boston MA, USA
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17
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Hamdy RM, Elaziz OHA, El attar RS, Abdel-Tawab H, Kotb FM. Evaluation of QT dispersion in epileptic patients and its association with SUDEP risk. Epilepsy Res 2022; 180:106860. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2022.106860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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18
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Stavropoulos I, Pak HL, Valentin A. Neuromodulation in Super-refractory Status Epilepticus. J Clin Neurophysiol 2021; 38:494-502. [PMID: 34261110 DOI: 10.1097/wnp.0000000000000710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
SUMMARY Status epilepticus (SE) is a severe condition that needs immediate pharmacological treatment to tackle brain damage and related side effects. In approximately 20% of cases, the standard treatment for SE does not control seizures, and the condition evolves to refractory SE. If refractory status epilepticus lasts more than 24 hours despite the use of anesthetic treatment, the condition is redefined as super-refractory SE (srSE). sRSE is a destructive condition, potentially to cause severe brain damage. In this review, we discuss the clinical neuromodulation techniques for controlling srSE when conventional treatments have failed: electroconvulsive therapy, vagus nerve stimulation, transcranial magnetic stimulation, and deep brain stimulation. Data show that neuromodulation therapies can abort srSE in >80% of patients. However, no randomized, prospective, and controlled trials have been completed, and data are provided only by retrospective small case series and case reports with obvious inclination to publication bias. There is a need for further investigation into the use of neuromodulation techniques as an early treatment of srSE and to address whether an earlier intervention can prevent long-term complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Stavropoulos
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom; and
| | - Ho Lim Pak
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Antonio Valentin
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom; and
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19
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Autonomic manifestations of epilepsy: emerging pathways to sudden death? Nat Rev Neurol 2021; 17:774-788. [PMID: 34716432 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-021-00574-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Epileptic networks are intimately connected with the autonomic nervous system, as exemplified by a plethora of ictal (during a seizure) autonomic manifestations, including epigastric sensations, palpitations, goosebumps and syncope (fainting). Ictal autonomic changes might serve as diagnostic clues, provide targets for seizure detection and help us to understand the mechanisms that underlie sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Autonomic alterations are generally more prominent in focal seizures originating from the temporal lobe, demonstrating the importance of limbic structures to the autonomic nervous system, and are particularly pronounced in focal-to-bilateral and generalized tonic-clonic seizures. The presence, type and severity of autonomic features are determined by the seizure onset zone, propagation pathways, lateralization and timing of the seizures, and the presence of interictal autonomic dysfunction. Evidence is mounting that not all autonomic manifestations are linked to SUDEP. In addition, experimental and clinical data emphasize the heterogeneity of SUDEP and its infrequent overlap with sudden cardiac death. Here, we review the spectrum and diagnostic value of the mostly benign and self-limiting autonomic manifestations of epilepsy. In particular, we focus on presentations that are likely to contribute to SUDEP and discuss how wearable devices might help to prevent SUDEP.
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20
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Wu ML, Hu DM, Wang JJ, Liu XL, Liu L, Li Y, Jing W. Pre- and postoperative heart rate variability and vagus nerve stimulation in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy - A meta-analysis. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 123:108247. [PMID: 34418640 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.108247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The effect of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), an important auxiliary therapy for treating drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE), on autonomic nerve function is still controversial. Heart rate variability is a widely used indicator of autonomic nerve function. To clarify the relationship between VNS and heart rate variability (HRV), we performed a meta-analysis to systematically evaluate the effect of VNS on HRV in patients with epilepsy. METHODS We performed a systematic review by searching the following online databases: PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library. The key search terms were "vagal nerve stimulation," "epilepsy" and "heart rate variability". Other features of VNS in patients with epilepsy include postoperative changes in low-frequency (LF), high-frequency (HF) and low-frequency/high-frequency (LF/HF) heart rate variability, which were used as evaluation indices, and the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale and Stata 14.0 statistical software were used for literature quality evaluation and meta-analysis. RESULTS Twelve studies published in English were obtained, and 229 patients with epilepsy who underwent VNS were ultimately included after elimination of duplicate articles and those that did not meet the inclusion criteria. Regarding LF heart rate variability, in the response subgroup, patients with DRE with VNS presented a lower value (-0.58) before surgery than after surgery, with a 95% confidence interval (CI) ranging from -1.00 to -0.15. For HF heart rate variability, patients with DRE with VNS had a lower value (-0.45) before surgery than after surgery in the response subgroup, with a 95% CI ranging from -0.74 to -0.17. No differences were found for LF/HF values or the LF and HF values of other subgroups. CONCLUSION VNS has little effect on the balance of sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve activity and would not be expected to cause cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction in patients with DRE. For patients with DRE, VNS can control seizures and has little effect on autonomic nervous function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mao-Lin Wu
- Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Dan-Mei Hu
- Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | | | - Xiao-Lei Liu
- Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Lei Liu
- University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Yuan Li
- Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China.
| | - Wei Jing
- Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China.
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21
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Verrier RL, Pang TD, Nearing BD, Schachter SC. Epileptic heart: A clinical syndromic approach. Epilepsia 2021; 62:1780-1789. [PMID: 34236079 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Prevention of premature death in patients with chronic epilepsy remains a major challenge. Multiple pathophysiologic factors have been implicated, with intense investigation of cardiorespiratory mechanisms. Up to four in five patients with chronic epilepsy exhibit cardiovascular comorbidities. These findings led us to propose the concept of an "epileptic heart," defined as "a heart and coronary vasculature damaged by chronic epilepsy as a result of repeated surges in catecholamines and hypoxemia leading to electrical and mechanical dysfunction." Among the most prominent changes documented in the literature are high incidence of myocardial infarction and arrhythmia, altered autonomic tone, diastolic dysfunction, hyperlipidemia, and accelerated atherosclerosis. This suite of pathologic changes prompted us to propose for the first time in this review a syndromic approach for improved clinical detection of the epileptic heart condition. In this review, we discuss the key pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying the candidate criteria along with standard and novel techniques that permit evaluation of each of these factors. Specifically, we present evidence of the utility of standard 12-lead, ambulatory, and multiday patch-based electrocardiograms, along with measures of cardiac electrical instability, including T-wave alternans, heart rate variability to detect altered autonomic tone, echocardiography to detect diastolic dysfunction, and plasma biomarkers for assessing hyperlipidemia and accelerated atherosclerosis. Ultimately, the proposed clinical syndromic approach is intended to improve monitoring and evaluation of cardiac risk in patients with chronic epilepsy to foster improved therapeutic strategies to reduce premature cardiac death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard L Verrier
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Trudy D Pang
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Bruce D Nearing
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Steven C Schachter
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Consortia for Improving Medicine with Innovation and Technology, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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22
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Ramkissoon CM, Güemes A, Vehi J. Overview of therapeutic applications of non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation: a motivation for novel treatments for systemic lupus erythematosus. Bioelectron Med 2021; 7:8. [PMID: 34030736 PMCID: PMC8145832 DOI: 10.1186/s42234-021-00069-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disorder that commonly affects the skin, joints, kidneys, and central nervous system. Although great progress has been made over the years, patients still experience unfavorable secondary effects from medications, increased economic burden, and higher mortality rates compared to the general population. To alleviate these current problems, non-invasive, non-pharmacological interventions are being increasingly investigated. One such intervention is non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation, which promotes the upregulation of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway that reduces the activation and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species, culpable processes in autoimmune diseases such as SLE. This review first provides a background on the important contribution of the autonomic nervous system to the pathogenesis of SLE. The gross and structural anatomy of the vagus nerve and its contribution to the inflammatory response are described afterwards to provide a general understanding of the impact of stimulating the vagus nerve. Finally, an overview of current clinical applications of invasive and non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation for a variety of diseases, including those with similar symptoms to the ones in SLE, is presented and discussed. Overall, the review presents neuromodulation as a promising strategy to alleviate SLE symptoms and potentially reverse the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amparo Güemes
- Bio-Inspired Technology, Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London, UK
| | - Josep Vehi
- Institut d’Informàtica i Aplicacions, Universitat de Girona, Girona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Madrid, Spain
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Epilepsy is associated with autonomic dysfunction. Here, we provide an up-to-date review on measures of interictal autonomic function, focusing on heart rate variability (HRV), baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) and electrodermal activity (EDA). RECENT FINDINGS Resting HRV, BRS and EDA are altered in patients with epilepsy compared with healthy controls. A larger body of work is available for HRV compared with BRS and EDA, and points to interictal HRV derangements across a wide range of epilepsies, including focal, generalized, and combined generalized and focal epilepsies. HRV alterations are most pronounced in temporal lobe epilepsy, Dravet syndrome and drug-resistant and chronic epilepsies. There are conflicting data on the effect of antiseizure medications on measures of interictal autonomic function. However, carbamazepine has been associated with decreased HRV. Epilepsy surgery and vagus nerve stimulation do not appear to have substantial impact on measures of interictal autonomic function but well designed studies are lacking. SUMMARY Patients with epilepsy, particularly those with longstanding uncontrolled seizures, have measurable alterations of resting autonomic function. These alterations may be relevant to the increased risk of premature mortality in epilepsy, including sudden unexpected death in epilepsy, which warrants investigation in future research.
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24
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Toffa DH, Touma L, El Meskine T, Bouthillier A, Nguyen DK. Learnings from 30 years of reported efficacy and safety of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) for epilepsy treatment: A critical review. Seizure 2020; 83:104-123. [PMID: 33120323 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2020.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Three decades after its introduction as an adjuvant therapeutic option in the management of selective drug-resistant epilepsy cases (DRE), vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) retains growing interest. An implantable device was first approved for epilepsy in Europe in 1994 and in the United States (US) in 1997. Subsequent modifications improved the safety and the efficacy of the system. The most recent application of vagal neurostimulation is represented by transcutaneous devices that are claimed to have strong therapeutic potential. In this review, we sought to analyze the most meaningful available data describing the indications, safety and efficacy of the different approaches of VNS in clinical practice. Therefore, we identified studies reporting VNS efficacy and/or safety in epilepsy and its comorbidities from January 1990 to February 2020 from various databases including PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, US government databases and VNS manufacturer published resources. In general, VNS efficacy becomes optimal around the sixth month of treatment and a 50-100 % seizure frequency reduction is achieved in approximately 45-65 % of the patients. However, some clinically relevant differences have been reported with specific factors such as epilepsy etiology or type, patient age as well as the delay of VNS therapy onset. VNS efficacy on seizure frequency has been demonstrated in both children and adults, in lesional and non-lesional cases, in focal and generalized epilepsies, on both seizures and epilepsy comorbidities. Regarding the latter, VNS can lead to an improvement of about 25-35 % in depression scores, 35 % in anxiety scores and 25 % in mood assessment scores. If non-invasive devices are undeniably safer, their efficacy is limited due to the scarcity of large cohort studies and the disparity of methodological approaches (study design and stimulation parameters). Overall, we believe that there is a progress margin for improving the safety of implantable devices and, above all, the effectiveness of the various VNS approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dènahin Hinnoutondji Toffa
- Department of Neurology, CHUM, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada; CHUM Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada.
| | - Lahoud Touma
- Department of Neurology, CHUM, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada
| | | | - Alain Bouthillier
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUM, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Dang Khoa Nguyen
- Department of Neurology, CHUM, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada; CHUM Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada
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25
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Nearing BD, Anand IS, Libbus I, Dicarlo LA, Kenknight BH, Verrier RL. Vagus Nerve Stimulation Provides Multiyear Improvements in Autonomic Function and Cardiac Electrical Stability in the ANTHEM-HF Study. J Card Fail 2020; 27:208-216. [PMID: 33049374 DOI: 10.1016/j.cardfail.2020.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with heart failure with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (HFrEF) experience long-term deterioration of autonomic function and cardiac electrical stability linked to increased mortality risk. The Autonomic Neural Regulation Therapy to Enhance Myocardial Function in Heart Failure (ANTHEM-HF) trial reported improved heart rate variability (HRV) and heart rate turbulence (HRT) and reduced T-wave alternans (TWA) after 12 months of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS). We investigated whether the benefits of chronic VNS persist in the long term. METHODS AND RESULTS Effects of chronic VNS on heart rate, HRV, HRT, TWA, R-wave and T-wave heterogeneity (RWH, TWH), and nonsustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT) incidence were evaluated in all ANTHEM-HF patients with ambulatory ECG data at 24 and 36 months (n = 25). Autonomic markers improved significantly at 24 and 36 months compared to baseline [heart rate, square root of the mean squared differences of successive normal-to-normal intervals (rMSSD), standard deviation of the normal-to-normal intervals (SDNN), HF-HRV, HRT slope, P < 0.05]. Peak TWA levels remained reduced at 24 and 36 months (P < 0.0001). Reductions in RWH and TWH at 6 and 12 months persisted at 24 and 36 months (P < 0.01). NSVT decreased at 12, 24, and 36 months (P < 0.025). No sudden cardiac deaths, ventricular fibrillation, or sustained ventricular tachycardia occurred. CONCLUSION In symptomatic patients with HFrEF, chronic VNS appears to confer wide-ranging, persistent improvements in autonomic tone (HRV), baroreceptor sensitivity (HRT), and cardiac electrical stability (TWA, RWH, TWH).
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce D Nearing
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | | | | | | | - Richard L Verrier
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
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Kulju T, Verner R, Dibué-Adjei M, Eronen A, Rainesalo S, Lehtimäki K, Haapasalo J, Peltola J. Circadian distribution of autostimulations in rVNS therapy in patients with refractory focal epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 110:107144. [PMID: 32473521 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Responsive vagus nerve stimulation (rVNS) utilizes an electrocardiograph (ECG)-based algorithm to detect rapid sympathetic activations associated with the onset of a seizure. Abrupt sympathetic activation may also be associated with nocturnal arousals between sleep cycles or transitioning from sleep to wakefulness, a period in which many patients with epilepsy experience seizures. Because of circadian changes in autonomic function, we hypothesized that the autostimulation feature might also behave in a circadian fashion. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess the circadian rhythmicity of autostimulations in rVNS treatment in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). MATERIALS AND METHODS We performed a retrospective follow-up study of 30 patients with DRE treated with rVNS including 17 new implantations and 13 battery replacements at a single center in Finland. After initiation of autostimulation mode, the exact rVNS stimulation parameters and the timestamps of all individual autostimulations delivered were registered. A clustered autostimulation was defined as any autostimulation that occurred within the duration of the therapeutic cycle during the therapy "OFF" time compared with both the previous autostimulation and the following autostimulation. RESULTS Autostimulations and especially autostimulation clusters show a higher probability of occurring in the morning and less at night. This trend appeared to follow the circadian rhythm of cortisol concentration. CONCLUSIONS Early morning peaks of autostimulations at low thresholds may reflect awakening-induced activation of the cardiovascular system, which is associated with a shift towards the dominance of the sympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system. Cortisol release occurs in parallel driven by wakening-induced activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, which is fine-tuned by direct sympathetic input to the adrenal gland. This is of interest considering the known sympathetic hyperactivity in patients with epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toni Kulju
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, Tampere University Hospital, P.O. Box 2000, Tampere FI-33521, Finland; Tampere University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, FI-33014 Tampere, Finland.
| | - Ryan Verner
- LivaNova USA, Neuromodulation Unit, 100 Cyberonics Blvd, Houston, TX 77058, USA
| | - Maxine Dibué-Adjei
- Neuromodulation Medical Affairs, LivaNova PLC,London, United Kingdom; Department of Neurosurgery, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Atte Eronen
- Tampere University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, FI-33014 Tampere, Finland
| | - Sirpa Rainesalo
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, Tampere University Hospital, P.O. Box 2000, Tampere FI-33521, Finland
| | - Kai Lehtimäki
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, Tampere University Hospital, P.O. Box 2000, Tampere FI-33521, Finland
| | - Joonas Haapasalo
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, Tampere University Hospital, P.O. Box 2000, Tampere FI-33521, Finland; The Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumour Research Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Jukka Peltola
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, Tampere University Hospital, P.O. Box 2000, Tampere FI-33521, Finland; Tampere University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, FI-33014 Tampere, Finland
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Verrier RL, Pang TD, Nearing BD, Schachter SC. Response to Letter to the Editor by Drs. Fialho and colleagues. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 108:107040. [PMID: 32451249 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Verrier RL, Pang TD, Nearing BD, Schachter SC. The Epileptic Heart: Concept and clinical evidence. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 105:106946. [PMID: 32109857 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.106946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is generally considered to result from a seizure, typically convulsive and usually but not always occurring during sleep, followed by a sequence of events in the postictal period starting with respiratory distress and progressing to eventual cardiac asystole and death. Yet, recent community-based studies indicate a 3-fold greater incidence of sudden cardiac death in patients with chronic epilepsy than in the general population, and that in 66% of cases, the cardiac arrest occurred during routine daily activity and without a temporal relationship with a typical seizure. To distinguish a primarily cardiac cause of death in patients with epilepsy from the above description of SUDEP, we propose the concept of the "Epileptic Heart" as "a heart and coronary vasculature damaged by chronic epilepsy as a result of repeated surges in catecholamines and hypoxemia leading to electrical and mechanical dysfunction." This review starts with an overview of the pathophysiological and other lines of evidence supporting the biological plausibility of the Epileptic Heart, followed by a description of tools that have been used to generate new electrocardiogram (EKG)-derived data in patients with epilepsy that strongly support the Epileptic Heart concept and its propensity to cause sudden cardiac death in patients with epilepsy independent of an immediately preceding seizure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard L Verrier
- Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine and Department of Neurology, Boston, MA United States of America.
| | - Trudy D Pang
- Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine and Department of Neurology, Boston, MA United States of America
| | - Bruce D Nearing
- Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine and Department of Neurology, Boston, MA United States of America
| | - Steven C Schachter
- Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine and Department of Neurology, Boston, MA United States of America
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Burger AM, D'Agostini M, Verkuil B, Van Diest I. Moving beyond belief: A narrative review of potential biomarkers for transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation. Psychophysiology 2020; 57:e13571. [PMID: 32202671 DOI: 10.1111/psyp.13571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) is a non-invasive neurostimulation technique that is currently being tested as a potential treatment for a myriad of neurological and psychiatric disorders. However, the working mechanisms underlying tVNS are poorly understood and it remains unclear whether stimulation activates the vagus nerve for every participant. Finding a biological marker of tVNS is imperative, as it can help guide research on clinical applications and can inform researchers on optimal stimulation sites and parameters to further optimize treatment efficacy. In this narrative review, we discuss five potential biomarkers for tVNS and review currently available evidence for these markers for both invasive and tVNS. While some of these biomarkers hold promise from a theoretical perspective, none of the potential biomarkers provide clear and definitive indications that tVNS increases the vagal activity or augments activity in the locus coeruleus-noradrenaline network. We conclude the review by providing several recommendations for how to tackle the challenges and opportunities when researching potential biomarkers for the effects of tVNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Michael Burger
- Health Psychology Research Group, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Biological Psychology Research Group, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Martina D'Agostini
- Health Psychology Research Group, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bart Verkuil
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Ilse Van Diest
- Health Psychology Research Group, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Ufongene C, El Atrache R, Loddenkemper T, Meisel C. Electrocardiographic changes associated with epilepsy beyond heart rate and their utilization in future seizure detection and forecasting methods. Clin Neurophysiol 2020; 131:866-879. [PMID: 32066106 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2020.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The ability to assess seizure risk may help provide timely warnings and more personalized treatment plans for people with epilepsy (PWE). ECG changes are commonly observed in epilepsy which make ECG a promising candidate to monitor seizure risk. Most ECG research in this domain has focused on heart rate-related changes. However, several studies have identified a range of other peri-ictal ECG parameter changes that may potentially prove useful for seizure detection and forecasting. Here, we offer a systematic review of ECG changes in epilepsy outside of heart rate. We performed the systematic literature review according to PRISMA guidelines using key words related to ECG, SUDEP and epilepsy. We identified and screened 502 abstracts, read 110 full papers, and included 24 papers in the final review. Our results suggest that PWE may be more prone to cardiac conduction abnormalities than healthy controls. During interictal periods, PWE were more likely to have abnormal QTc intervals, ST segment abnormalities, elevated T Waves, early repolarization (ER), increased P Wave dispersion and PR intervals when compared to controls. Apart from these baseline abnormalities, changes during the pre-ictal and ictal states have been reported, with arrhythmias, QTc prolongation and ST segment changes being the most common. A better understanding of these state-dependent changes may afford less-cumbersome and less-stigmatizing epilepsy monitoring tools in the future.
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Pang TD, Nearing BD, Krishnamurthy KB, Olin B, Schachter SC, Verrier RL. Cardiac electrical instability in newly diagnosed/chronic epilepsy tracked by Holter and ECG patch. Neurology 2020; 93:450-458. [PMID: 31477610 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000008077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We hypothesized that cardiac electrical instability and abnormal autonomic tone result from cumulative cardiac injury sustained in recurrent seizures. We tested this hypothesis by comparing T-wave alternans (TWA) and heart rate variability (HRV), both established markers of sudden cardiac death (SCD) risk, in patients with chronic as compared to newly diagnosed epilepsy. METHODS In this prospective, observational cohort study, patients (newly diagnosed epilepsy, n = 6, age 41.8 ± 6.8 years; chronic epilepsy, n = 6, age 40.2 ± 5.6 years [p = 0.85]) were monitored either with Holter recorder alone or simultaneously with 14-day Zio XT extended continuous ECG patch monitor. TWA was assessed by Food and Drug Administration-cleared Modified Moving Average analysis; HRV was calculated by rMSSD. RESULTS TWA levels in chronic epilepsy were significantly higher than in newly diagnosed epilepsy (62 ± 5.4 vs 35 ± 1.3 μV, p < 0.002); the latter did not differ from healthy control adults. In all patients with chronic epilepsy, TWA exceeded the established ≥47-μV TWA cutpoint and rMSSD HRV was inversely related to TWA levels. Patients with chronic epilepsy exhibited elevated TWA levels equivalently on Holter and ECG patch recordings (p = 0.38) with a high correlation (r 2 = 0.99, p < 0.01) across 24 hours. CONCLUSION Based on the limited number of patients studied, it appears that chronic epilepsy, the common use of sodium channel antagonists, or other factors are associated with higher TWA levels and simultaneously with lower rMSSD HRV, which is suggestive of autonomic dysfunction or higher sympathetic tone. The ECG patch monitor used has equivalent accuracy to Holter monitoring for TWA and HRV and permits longer-term ECG sampling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trudy D Pang
- From Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (T.D.P., B.D.N., K.B.K., S.C.S., R.L.V.), Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; and LivaNova PLC (B.O.), London, UK
| | - Bruce D Nearing
- From Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (T.D.P., B.D.N., K.B.K., S.C.S., R.L.V.), Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; and LivaNova PLC (B.O.), London, UK
| | - Kaarkuzhali Babu Krishnamurthy
- From Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (T.D.P., B.D.N., K.B.K., S.C.S., R.L.V.), Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; and LivaNova PLC (B.O.), London, UK
| | - Bryan Olin
- From Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (T.D.P., B.D.N., K.B.K., S.C.S., R.L.V.), Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; and LivaNova PLC (B.O.), London, UK
| | - Steven C Schachter
- From Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (T.D.P., B.D.N., K.B.K., S.C.S., R.L.V.), Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; and LivaNova PLC (B.O.), London, UK
| | - Richard L Verrier
- From Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (T.D.P., B.D.N., K.B.K., S.C.S., R.L.V.), Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; and LivaNova PLC (B.O.), London, UK.
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Gillis WF, Lissandrello CA, Shen J, Pearre BW, Mertiri A, Deku F, Cogan S, Holinski BJ, Chew DJ, White AE, Otchy TM, Gardner TJ. Carbon fiber on polyimide ultra-microelectrodes. J Neural Eng 2019; 15:016010. [PMID: 28905812 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/aa8c88] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Most preparations for making neural recordings degrade over time and eventually fail due to insertion trauma and reactive tissue response. The magnitudes of these responses are thought to be related to the electrode size (specifically, the cross-sectional area), the relative stiffness of the electrode, and the degree of tissue tolerance for the material. Flexible carbon fiber ultra-microelectrodes have a much smaller cross-section than traditional electrodes and low tissue reactivity, and thus may enable improved longevity of neural recordings in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Only two carbon fiber array designs have been described previously, each with limited channel densities due to limitations of the fabrication processes or interconnect strategies. Here, we describe a method for assembling carbon fiber electrodes on a flexible polyimide substrate that is expected to facilitate the construction of high-density recording and stimulating arrays. APPROACH Individual carbon fibers were aligned using an alignment tool that was 3D-printed with sub-micron resolution using direct laser writing. Indium deposition on the carbon fibers, followed by low-temperature microsoldering, provided a robust and reliable method of electrical connection to the polyimide interconnect. MAIN RESULTS Spontaneous multiunit activity and stimulation-evoked compound responses with SNR >10 and >120, respectively, were recorded from a small (125 µm) peripheral nerve. We also improved the typically poor charge injection capacity of small diameter carbon fibers by electrodepositing 100 nm-thick iridium oxide films, making the carbon fiber arrays usable for electrical stimulation as well as recording. SIGNIFICANCE Our innovations in fabrication technique pave the way for further miniaturization of carbon fiber ultra-microelectrode arrays. We believe these advances to be key steps to enable a shift from labor intensive, manual assembly to a more automated manufacturing process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winthrop F Gillis
- Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States of America
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Verrier RL, Nearing BD, Pang TD, Schachter SC. Monitoring risk for sudden cardiac death: is there a role for EKG patches? CURRENT OPINION IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cobme.2019.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Zaccara G, Lattanzi S. Comorbidity between epilepsy and cardiac arrhythmias: Implication for treatment. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 97:304-312. [PMID: 31279643 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.05.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy is often comorbid with either neurological or nonneurological diseases. The association between epilepsy and cardiac arrhythmias is not infrequent, mostly in patients with severe forms of epilepsy or critically ill. Remarkably, these medical conditions share many similarities. Vascular and genetic disorders may predispose to both seizures and abnormalities of cardiac electrophysiology. Repeated and uncontrolled seizures may favor potentially life-threatening arrhythmias. Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) may facilitate the occurrence of cardiac arrhythmias by acting on ionic channels at heart level. Antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) can have effects on ionic channels expressed in the brain, as suggested by their efficacy in treating patients with rare forms of epilepsy; AADs may also be proconvulsant, mainly during their overdosage. In clinical practice, the AEDs with the lowest risk to influence cardiac electrophysiology are to be preferred in patients presenting with either seizures or arrhythmias. Traditional AEDs should be avoided because of their arrhythmogenic properties and enzyme-inducing effects, which may make ineffective the concomitant treatment with AADs. Some of the newer AEDs can rarely affect cardiac rhythm, and electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring should be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Zaccara
- Agenzia Regionale di Sanità, Regione Toscana, Firenze, Italy.
| | - Simona Lattanzi
- Neurological Clinic, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
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Lee MB, Kramer DR, Peng T, Barbaro MF, Liu CY, Kellis S, Lee B. Clinical neuroprosthetics: Today and tomorrow. J Clin Neurosci 2019; 68:13-19. [PMID: 31375306 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2019.07.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2019] [Revised: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Implantable neurostimulation devices provide a direct therapeutic link to the nervous system and can be considered brain-computer interfaces (BCI). Under this definition, BCI are not simply science fiction, they are part of existing neurosurgical practice. Clinical BCI are standard of care for historically difficult to treat neurological disorders. These systems target the central and peripheral nervous system and include Vagus Nerve Stimulation, Responsive Neurostimulation, and Deep Brain Stimulation. Recent advances in clinical BCI have focused on creating "closed-loop" systems. These systems rely on biomarker feedback and promise individualized therapy with optimal stimulation delivery and minimal side effects. Success of clinical BCI has paralleled research efforts to create BCI that restore upper extremity motor and sensory function to patients. Efforts to develop closed loop motor/sensory BCI is linked to the successes of today's clinical BCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan B Lee
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; USC Neurorestoration Center, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Daniel R Kramer
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; USC Neurorestoration Center, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Terrance Peng
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; USC Neurorestoration Center, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Michael F Barbaro
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; USC Neurorestoration Center, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Charles Y Liu
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; USC Neurorestoration Center, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Spencer Kellis
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; USC Neurorestoration Center, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA, USA; T&C Chen Brain Machine Interface Center, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA; Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Brian Lee
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; USC Neurorestoration Center, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
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Vieluf S, El Atrache R, Hammond S, Touserkani FM, Loddenkemper T, Reinsberger C. Peripheral multimodal monitoring of ANS changes related to epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 96:69-79. [PMID: 31100658 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The goal of this study was to evaluate and summarize the current literature on multimodal changes of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) in people with epilepsy (PWE). We included studies reporting ANS measures of at least two modalities and with a minimum of one group of people with epilepsy. We screened two hundred eighty-three abstracts and sixty-six full texts, of which twenty-two met our inclusion criteria. Eleven studies reported ictal and interictal cardiac and respiratory changes. Three studies investigated the correlation between cardiac and respiratory markers, whereby two found no correlation and one showed a relation. Six studies evaluated electrodermal and cardiac parameters and showed effects on both ANS subsystems that jointly indicate a shift toward increased sympathetic activity for people with epilepsy during rest and during activity. Two studies assessed three modalities and reveal epilepsy-related alterations within the ANS. In summary, there is a growing interest in multimodal monitoring approaches, such as combining at least two ANS modalities, to describe epilepsy-related changes in ANS activity and to test for the potential to use ANS markers for seizure detection and prediction. Most studies report multiple unimodal analyses while only few studies analyzed multimodal patterns. Patterns of changes depend on the type of epilepsy and differ on an individual level; therefore, a multimodal approach might offer an approach to more individualized monitoring and, ultimately, management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solveig Vieluf
- Institute of Sports Medicine, Department Sports & Health, Paderborn University, Paderborn, Germany; Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Rima El Atrache
- Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Sarah Hammond
- Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Fatemeh Mohammadpour Touserkani
- Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA; Department of Neurology, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Tobias Loddenkemper
- Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Claus Reinsberger
- Institute of Sports Medicine, Department Sports & Health, Paderborn University, Paderborn, Germany; Edward B. Bromfield Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
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Repeated generalized seizures can produce calcified cardiac lesions in DBA/1 mice. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 95:169-174. [PMID: 31063933 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2018] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Studies suggest that cardiorespiratory dysfunction likely contributes to sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Seizures result in autonomic and respiratory dysfunction, leading to sympathetic hyperactivity and respiratory distress, including apnea. While the heart is vulnerable to catecholamine surges and hypoxia, it remains unknown if repetitive generalized seizures lead to cardiac damage. DBA/1 mice exhibit seizure-induced respiratory arrest (S-IRA) following generalized audiogenic seizures (AGS), which can be resuscitated using a rodent ventilator. In the current study, we induced different numbers of S-IRA episodes in DBA/1 mice and determined the association of repeated S-IRA induction with cardiac damage using histology. After repetitive induction of 18 S-IRA, calcified lesions, as revealed by calcium (Ca2+)-specific alizarin red staining, were observed in the ventricular myocardium in 61.5% of DBA/1 mice, which was higher compared to mice with 5 S-IRA and 1 S-IRA as well as age-matched untested control mice. The incidence of lesions in mice with 9 S-IRA was only higher than that of control mice. Only 1-2, small lesions were observed in mice with 5 S-IRA and 1 S-IRA and in control mice. Larger lesions (>2500 μm2) were observed in mice with 9 and 18 S-IRA. The incidence of larger lesions was higher in mice with 18 S-IRA (53.8%) as compared to mice with 5 S-IRA and 1 S-IRA as well as with control mice, and the incidence of larger lesions in mice with 9 S-IRA was only higher than that of control mice. Repeated induction of S-IRA in DBA/1 mice can result in calcified necrotic lesions in the ventricles of the heart, and their incidence and size are dependent on the total number of S-IRA.
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Myers KA, Sivathamboo S, Perucca P. Heart rate variability measurement in epilepsy: How can we move from research to clinical practice? Epilepsia 2018; 59:2169-2178. [PMID: 30345509 DOI: 10.1111/epi.14587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2018] [Revised: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Our objective was to critically evaluate the literature surrounding heart rate variability (HRV) in people with epilepsy and to make recommendations as to how future research could be directed to facilitate and accelerate integration into clinical practice. We reviewed relevant HRV publications including those involving human subjects with seizures. HRV has been studied in patients with epilepsy for more than 30 years and, overall, patients with epilepsy display altered interictal HRV, suggesting a shift in autonomic balance toward sympathetic dominance. This derangement appears more severe in those with temporal lobe epilepsy and drug-resistant epilepsy. Normal diurnal variation in HRV is also disturbed in at least some people with epilepsy, but this aspect has received less study. Some therapeutic interventions, including vagus nerve stimulation and antiepileptic medications, may partially normalize altered HRV, but studies in this area are sometimes contradictory. During seizures, the changes in HRV may be complex, but the general trend is toward a further increase in sympathetic overactivity. Research in HRV in people with epilepsy has been limited by inconsistent experimental protocols and studies that are often underpowered. HRV measurement has the potential to aid clinical epilepsy management in several possible ways. HRV may be useful in predicting which patients are likely to benefit from surgical interventions such as vagus nerve stimulation and focal cerebral resection. As well, HRV could eventually have utility as a biomarker of risk for sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). However, at present, the inconsistent measurement protocols used in research are hindering translation into clinical practice. A minimum protocol for HRV evaluation, to be used in all studies involving epilepsy patients, is necessary to eventually allow HRV to become a useful tool for clinicians. We propose a straightforward protocol, involving 5-minute measurements of root mean square of successive differences in wakefulness and light sleep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth A Myers
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Division of Child Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Shobi Sivathamboo
- Department of Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Piero Perucca
- Department of Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Verrier RL, Schachter SC. Is heart disease in chronic epilepsy a consequence of seizures or a fellow traveler? Epilepsy Behav 2018; 86:211-213. [PMID: 30153935 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2018.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Revised: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Richard L Verrier
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America.
| | - Steven C Schachter
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America; Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States of America; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America; Consortia for Improving Medicine with Innovation and Technology, Boston, MA, United States of America
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Myers KA, Bello-Espinosa LE, Symonds JD, Zuberi SM, Clegg R, Sadleir LG, Buchhalter J, Scheffer IE. Heart rate variability in epilepsy: A potential biomarker of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy risk. Epilepsia 2018; 59:1372-1380. [PMID: 29873813 DOI: 10.1111/epi.14438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is a tragic and devastating event for which the underlying pathophysiology remains poorly understood; this study investigated whether abnormalities in heart rate variability (HRV) are linked to SUDEP in patients with epilepsy due to mutations in sodium channel (SCN) genes. METHODS We retrospectively evaluated HRV in epilepsy patients using electroencephalographic studies to study the potential contribution of autonomic dysregulation to SUDEP risk. We extracted HRV data, in wakefulness and sleep, from 80 patients with drug-resistant epilepsy, including 40 patients with mutations in SCN genes and 40 control patients with non-SCN drug-resistant epilepsy. From the SCN group, 10 patients had died of SUDEP. We compared HRV between SUDEP and non-SUDEP groups, specifically studying awake HRV and sleep:awake HRV ratios. RESULTS The SUDEP patients had the most severe autonomic dysregulation, showing lower awake HRV and either extremely high or extremely low ratios of sleep-to-awake HRV in a subgroup analysis. A secondary analysis comparing the SCN and non-SCN groups indicated that autonomic dysfunction was slightly worse in the SCN epilepsy group. SIGNIFICANCE These findings suggest that autonomic dysfunction is associated with SUDEP risk in patients with epilepsy due to sodium channel mutations. The relationship of HRV to SUDEP merits further study; HRV may eventually have potential as a biomarker of SUDEP risk, which would allow for more informed counseling of patients and families, and also serve as a useful outcome measure for research aimed at developing therapies and interventions to reduce SUDEP risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth A Myers
- Department of Medicine, Epilepsy Research Centre, Austin Health, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Pediatrics, Section of Neurology, Alberta Children's Hospital, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Division of Child Neurology, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Luis E Bello-Espinosa
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Neurology, Alberta Children's Hospital, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Joseph D Symonds
- College of Medicine, Veterinary, and Life Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.,Paediatric Neurosciences Research Group, Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Glasgow, UK
| | - Sameer M Zuberi
- College of Medicine, Veterinary, and Life Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.,Paediatric Neurosciences Research Group, Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Glasgow, UK
| | - Robin Clegg
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Cardiology, Alberta Children's Hospital, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Lynette G Sadleir
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Jeffrey Buchhalter
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Neurology, Alberta Children's Hospital, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ingrid E Scheffer
- Department of Medicine, Epilepsy Research Centre, Austin Health, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Flemington, Victoria, Australia.,Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
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Kishk NA, Sharaf Y, Ebraheim AM, Baghdady Y, Alieldin N, Afify A, Eldamaty A. Interictal cardiac repolarization abnormalities in people with epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2018; 79:106-111. [PMID: 29274604 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2017.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 10/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE The occurrence of cardiac electrical abnormalities such as repolarization disorders in patients with epilepsy was previously documented and may, in part, clarify the mechanism of sudden unexpected death in those patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency of cardiac repolarization disorders among patients with epilepsy and whether specific demographic- or disease-related features were associated with their occurrence. SUBJECTS AND METHODS This cross-sectional study was carried out on 1000 subjects with epilepsy who were compared with age- and sex-matched 2500 subjects without epilepsy. Clinical assessment, which included careful history taking and examination, was carried out for all participants in addition to resting 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) recording. Electrocardiograms were reviewed by experienced cardiologists. Electrocardiogram intervals were measured, and morphological abnormalities were identified using standard guidelines. RESULTS Repolarization abnormalities were found in 142 (14.2%) patients with epilepsy. A statistically significant elevation in percentage of corrected QT interval (QTc) prolongation (both severe and borderline) among patients with epilepsy compared with controls was documented (8.4% vs 2%, P<0.001). Epilepsy increased the likelihood of hosting prolonged QTc more than 4 times (95% confidence interval: 3.175-6.515; odds ratio: 4.548; P<0.001). Affected patients were significantly older (95% confidence interval: 1.012-1.044; odds ratio: 1.027; P=0.001), and the abnormality was significantly more prevalent among those with poor seizure control (95% confidence interval: 1.103-2.966; odds ratio: 1.809; P=0.019). On the other hand, early repolarization (ER) pattern and Brugada type ECG pattern (BP) were significantly more prevalent in subjects without epilepsy. CONCLUSIONS Corrected QT interval prolongation (both severe and borderline) was more prevalent among patients with epilepsy, especially if uncontrolled or elderly. Electrocardiogram should be established as a part of the diagnostic workup of epilepsy in order to identify such electrocardiographic abnormality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirmeen A Kishk
- Neurology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt
| | - Yasser Sharaf
- Cardiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt
| | - Asmaa M Ebraheim
- Neurology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt.
| | - Yasser Baghdady
- Cardiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt
| | - Nelly Alieldin
- Cancer Epidemiology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Afify
- Cardiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Eldamaty
- Cardiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt
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Liu A, Wu Y, Li L, Wang Y. The roles of interleukin‐1 and RhoA signaling pathway in rat epilepsy model treated with low‐frequency electrical stimulation. J Cell Biochem 2017; 119:2535-2544. [DOI: 10.1002/jcb.26415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2017] [Accepted: 09/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ai‐Hua Liu
- Department of NeurologyXuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingP.R. China
- Beijing Intensive Epilepsy CenterBeijing Key Laboratory of NeuromodulationBeijingP.R. China
| | - Ya‐Ting Wu
- Department of NeurologyXuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingP.R. China
- Beijing Intensive Epilepsy CenterBeijing Key Laboratory of NeuromodulationBeijingP.R. China
| | - Li‐Ping Li
- Department of NeurologyXuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingP.R. China
- Beijing Intensive Epilepsy CenterBeijing Key Laboratory of NeuromodulationBeijingP.R. China
| | - Yu‐Ping Wang
- Department of NeurologyXuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingP.R. China
- Beijing Intensive Epilepsy CenterBeijing Key Laboratory of NeuromodulationBeijingP.R. China
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Garamendi-Ruiz I, Gómez-Esteban JC. Cardiovascular autonomic effects of vagus nerve stimulation. Clin Auton Res 2017; 29:183-194. [DOI: 10.1007/s10286-017-0477-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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The effect of atomoxetine, a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, on respiratory arrest and cardiorespiratory function in the DBA/1 mouse model of SUDEP. Epilepsy Res 2017; 137:139-144. [PMID: 28844345 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2017.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2016] [Revised: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 08/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is a significant public health burden. The mechanisms of SUDEP are elusive, although cardiorespiratory dysfunction is a likely contributor. Clinical and animal studies indicate that seizure-induced respiratory arrest (S-IRA) is the primary event leading to death in many SUDEP cases. Our prior studies demonstrated that intraperitoneal (IP) injection of atomoxetine, a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (NRI) widely used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, suppresses S-IRA in DBA/1 mice. In the current study, we injected atomoxetine intracerebroventricularly (ICV) and measured its effect on S-IRA in DBA/1 mice to determine its central effects. Additionally, to test our hypothesis that atomoxetine reduces S-IRA via altering cardiorespiratory function, we examined the effect of atomoxetine on respiratory and cardiac function using non-invasive plethysmography and ECG in anesthetized DBA/1 mice, and on blood pressure and heart rate using a tail-cuff system in conscious DBA/1 mice. ICV administration of atomoxetine at 200-250nmol significantly reduced S-IRA evoked by acoustic stimulation in DBA/1 mice, consistent with a central atomoxetine effect on S-IRA. Peripheral atomoxetine administration at a dosage that reduces S-IRA (15mg/kg, IP) slightly increased basal ventilation and the ventilatory response to 7% CO2, but exerted no effect on heart rate in anesthetized DBA/1 mice. IP injection of atomoxetine produced no effect on the heart rate and blood pressures in conscious mice. These data suggest that atomoxetine suppresses S-IRA through direct effects on the CNS and potentially through enhanced lung ventilation in DBA/1 mice.
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Yuan Y, Hassel JL, Doytchinova A, Adams D, Wright KC, Meshberger C, Chen LS, Guerra MP, Shen C, Lin SF, Everett TH, Salanova V, Chen PS. Left cervical vagal nerve stimulation reduces skin sympathetic nerve activity in patients with drug resistant epilepsy. Heart Rhythm 2017; 14:1771-1778. [PMID: 28778733 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2017.07.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We recently reported that skin sympathetic nerve activity (SKNA) can be used to estimate sympathetic tone in humans. In animal models, vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) can damage the stellate ganglion, reduce stellate ganglion nerve activity, and suppress cardiac arrhythmia. Whether VNS can suppress sympathetic tone in humans remains unclear. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that VNS suppresses SKNA in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. METHODS ECG patch electrodes were used to continuously record SKNA in 26 patients with drug-resistant epilepsy who were admitted for video electroencephalographic monitoring. Among them, 6 (2 men, age 40 ± 11 years) were previously treated with VNS and 20 (7 men, age 37 ± 8 years) were not. The signals from ECG leads I and II were filtered to detect SKNA. RESULTS VNS had an on-time of 30 seconds and off-time of 158 ± 72 seconds, with output of 1.92 ± 0.42 mA at 24.17 ± 2.01 Hz. Average SKNA during VNS off-time was 1.06 μV (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.93-1.18) in lead I and 1.13 μV (95% CI 0.99-1.27) in lead II, which was significantly lower than 1.38 μV (95% CI 1.01-1.75; P = .036) and 1.38 μV (95% CI 0.98-1.78; P = .035) in the control group, respectively. Heart rate was 65 bpm (95% CI 59-71) in the VNS group, which was significantly lower than 77 bpm (95% CI 71-83) in the control group. CONCLUSION Patients with VNS had significantly lower SKNA than those without VNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Yuan
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana; Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jonathan L Hassel
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Anisiia Doytchinova
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - David Adams
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Keith C Wright
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Chad Meshberger
- Department of Neurology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Lan S Chen
- Department of Neurology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Maria P Guerra
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Changyu Shen
- Richard and Susan Smith Center for Outcomes Research in Cardiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Shien-Fong Lin
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana; Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Chiao-Tung University, Hsin-Chu, Taiwan
| | - Thomas H Everett
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Vicenta Salanova
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Peng-Sheng Chen
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana.
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