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Wang Z, Zhang Z, Luo T, Du X, Yang M, Yao Q, Su L, Li Y, Chen X, Huang X, Zhang Y. Increased serum interleukin-41 correlates with disease severity in myasthenia gravis. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 134:112275. [PMID: 38759373 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112275] [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: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease mediated by pathogenic antibodies produced by abnormally activated B cells, resulting in neuromuscular junction transmission dysfunction. Interleukin-41 (IL-41) is a novel immunomodulatory cytokine that has been implicated in various metabolic, inflammatory, and autoimmune diseases. The role of IL-41 in MG is still unclear up to now, our study aimed to investigate the level of IL-41 in MG patients and its correlation with clinical features and inflammatory indicators. METHODS Totally, 60 MG patients and 30 healthy controls (HC) were recruited. Baseline data and laboratory parameters were routinely recorded through electronic medical systems. IL-41 levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Proportions of T-cell and B-cell subsets and natural killer cells were analyzed by flow cytometry. The correlation between serum IL-41 and MG related parameters was investigated, and the clinical value of IL-41 in the diagnosis of MG was evaluated by receiver operator characteristic curve (ROC) analysis. RESULTS Serum IL-41 levels in MG patients were higher than in HC, and were higher in Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America (MGFA) III + IV group than that in MGFA I + II group. Serum IL-41 was positively correlated with MG-specific activities of daily living scale (MG-ADL), MGFA classification, platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and proportion of CD19+ B cells, while it was negatively correlated with high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and circulatory plasma cells in MG patients. Serum IL-41 levels increased in patients who were treated with efgartigimod during the first cycle of therapy. However, compared to disease initiation, serum IL-41 levels decreased when clinical features steadily improved. ROC analysis showed that IL-41 had a diagnostic value for MG. CONCLUSION The present findings suggested that serum IL-41 was increased in MG patients and was positively associated with the severity of the disease. IL-41 may be essential to the immunopathological mechanism of MG and a potential biomarker for MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhouyi Wang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Central Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhouao Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Central Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tiancheng Luo
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Central Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xue Du
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mingjin Yang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qian Yao
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Luyao Su
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuting Li
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiao Chen
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoyu Huang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; Department of Neurology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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Huang YF, Bhandage AK, Adeström LDP, Punga AR. Short-term changes in serum miRNA levels and patient-reported clinical outcomes in myasthenia gravis. Muscle Nerve 2024. [PMID: 38855861 DOI: 10.1002/mus.28177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS The circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) miR-150-5p, miR-30e-5p, and miR-21-5p have been suggested as potential biomarkers for myasthenia gravis (MG); however, the relationships between short-term natural changes of the miRNAs and patient-reported MG outcome scores have not been well-studied. We assessed the short-term fluctuations in miRNA levels and patient-reported outcome measures in MG. METHODS This prospective cohort study included 39 MG patients with regular follow-ups and unchanged medications at the Neurology outpatient clinic at Uppsala University Hospital. Patients had weekly follow-up visits for 1 month, at which blood samples were drawn, and scores from MG activities of daily living (MG-ADL), MG quality-of-life-15 (MG-QoL15), and Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) were assessed. Serum levels of miRNA miR-150-5p, miR-30e-5p, and miR-21-5p were analyzed using quantitative real-time PCR. RESULTS Intra-individual levels of miR-30e-5p and miR-150-5p were stable, whereas a significant reduction in miR-21-5p was observed from week 1 to week 2 (p = .0024) and from week 2 to week 3 (p < .0001). There were intra-individual differences over a short time in MG-ADL, with higher scores in female patients (p = .0281) and a significant reduction from the first to the second weeks (p = .0281), whereas MG-QoL15 and FSS scores were stable. DISCUSSION The suggested MG biomarkers miR-30e-5p and miR-150-5p were more stable than miR-21-5p over a short time, indicating their short-term stability as biomarkers. Prospective multi-center studies with longer periods of follow-up and matched controls are needed to validate these miRNAs as biomarkers in MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Fang Huang
- Department of Medical Sciences, Clinical Neurophysiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Amol K Bhandage
- Department of Medical Sciences, Clinical Neurophysiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Anna Rostedt Punga
- Department of Medical Sciences, Clinical Neurophysiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Sun F, Batra A, Dickson D, Li Y, Wu EL. Efgartigimod infusion in the treatment regimen for myasthenic crisis: A case report. Muscle Nerve 2024. [PMID: 38850117 DOI: 10.1002/mus.28178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Fang Sun
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Ken & Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Ayush Batra
- Ken & Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Daniel Dickson
- Department of Pharmacy, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Yuebing Li
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - En-Ling Wu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Mück A, Pfeuffer S, Mir L, Genau S, Emde J, Olbricht L, Omar OA, Blaes F, Best C, Huttner HB, Krämer HH. Myasthenic crises are associated with negative long-term outcomes in myasthenia gravis. J Neurol 2024:10.1007/s00415-024-12478-y. [PMID: 38839637 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12478-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mück
- Department of Neurology, Justus Liebig University, Klinikstrasse 33, 35392, Giessen, Germany.
| | - Steffen Pfeuffer
- Department of Neurology, Justus Liebig University, Klinikstrasse 33, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Lara Mir
- Department of Neurology, Justus Liebig University, Klinikstrasse 33, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sonja Genau
- Department of Neurology, Justus Liebig University, Klinikstrasse 33, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Julia Emde
- Department of Neurology, Justus Liebig University, Klinikstrasse 33, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Linus Olbricht
- Department of Neurology, Justus Liebig University, Klinikstrasse 33, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Omar A Omar
- Department of Neurology, Justus Liebig University, Klinikstrasse 33, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Franz Blaes
- Department of Neurology, Klinikum Oberberg, Gummersbach, Germany
| | - Christoph Best
- Department of Neurology, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Hagen B Huttner
- Department of Neurology, Justus Liebig University, Klinikstrasse 33, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Heidrun H Krämer
- Department of Neurology, Justus Liebig University, Klinikstrasse 33, 35392, Giessen, Germany
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van Steen C, Celico L, Spaepen E, Hagenacker T, Meuth SG, Ruck T, Smith AG, Bodicoat DH, de Francesco M, Iannazzo S. Efgartigimod and Ravulizumab for Treating Acetylcholine Receptor Auto-antibody-Positive (AChR-Ab+) Generalized Myasthenia Gravis: Indirect Treatment Comparison. Adv Ther 2024; 41:2486-2499. [PMID: 38642198 PMCID: PMC11133097 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-024-02856-3] [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: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Efgartigimod and ravulizumab, both approved for treating acetylcholine receptor auto-antibody-positive (AChR-Ab+) generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG), have not been directly compared. This paper assessed comparative effects of efgartigimod vs. ravulizumab for treating adults with AChR-Ab+ gMG using indirect treatment comparison methods. METHODS The matching-adjusted indirect comparison used data from two randomized trials of adult men and women. The ADAPT (efgartigimod vs. placebo; individual patient data available) population was reweighted to match the CHAMPION (ravulizumab vs. placebo; index study; aggregate data available) population. The relative effect of efgartigimod versus placebo was estimated in this reweighted population and compared with the observed ravulizumab versus placebo effect to estimate the efgartigimod versus ravulizumab effect. The outcomes were Myasthenia Gravis Activities of Daily Living (MG-ADL), Quantitative Myasthenia Gravis (QMG), and Myasthenia Gravis Quality of Life 15-item-revised scale (MG-QoL15r) assessed as cumulative effect (area under the curve; AUC) over 26 weeks (primary) and change from baseline at 4 weeks and time of best response (week 4 for efgartigimod; week 26 for ravulizumab). RESULTS For MG-QoL15r, efgartigimod had a statistically significant improvement compared with ravulizumab over 26 weeks [mean difference (95% confidence interval): - 52.6 (- 103.0, - 2.3)], at week 4 [- 4.0 (- 6.6, - 1.4)], and at time of best response [- 3.9 (- 6.5, - 1.3)]. Efgartigimod had a statistically significant improvement over ravulizumab in MG-ADL at week 4 [- 1.9 (- 3.3, - 0.5)] and at time of best response [- 1.4 (- 2.8, 0.0)] and in QMG at week 4 [- 3.2 (- 5.2, - 1.2)] and at time of best response [- 3.0 (- 5.0, - 1.0)]. For AUC over 26 weeks, improvements were not significantly different between efgartigimod and ravulizumab for MG-ADL [- 8.7 (- 36.1, 18.8)] and QMG [- 13.7 (- 50.3, 22.9)]. CONCLUSION Efgartigimod may provide a faster and greater improvement over 26 weeks in quality of life than ravulizumab in adults with AChR-Ab+ gMG. Efgartigimod showed faster improvements in MG-ADL and QMG than ravulizumab.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Sven G Meuth
- University Hospital Düsseldorf, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Tobias Ruck
- University Hospital Düsseldorf, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
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Horiuchi K, Nakamura S, Yamada K, Inoue T, Oiwa K. Retrospective analysis of efgartigimod use in patients with double-seronegative generalized myasthenia gravis: a case series. Neuromuscul Disord 2024; 39:37-41. [PMID: 38772072 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2024.04.005] [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: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
The effect of treatment with efgartigimod in seronegative myasthenia gravis (MG) remains unclear. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate symptomatic changes and safety of treatment with efgartigimod in patients with generalized MG (gMG) double-seronegative for acetylcholine receptor antibody and muscle-specific kinase antibody. We reviewed the medical records of double-seronegative gMG treated with 10 mg/kg efgartigimod once/week per cycle (4 weeks) from June 2022 to June 2023. A total of 16 patients were included. MG-activities of daily living (ADL) scores improved from 9.2 to 7.4. Mean prednisolone dose was reduced from 5.4 to 4.1 mg/day. The duration before MG-ADL deterioration after the end of a cycle was 6.1 weeks. Five patients had mild adverse events. This retrospective study revealed no significant treatment benefit in the outcomes of patients with double-seronegative gMG treated with efgartigimod.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhiro Horiuchi
- Department of Neurology, Hakodate Municipal Hospital, Hakodate, Japan.
| | - Shuntaro Nakamura
- Department of Neurology, Hakodate Municipal Hospital, Hakodate, Japan
| | - Kazuki Yamada
- Department of Neurology, Hakodate Municipal Hospital, Hakodate, Japan
| | - Takashi Inoue
- Department of Neurology, Hakodate Municipal Hospital, Hakodate, Japan
| | - Kei Oiwa
- Department of Neurology, Hakodate Municipal Hospital, Hakodate, Japan
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Zhang H, Ma J, Feng Y, Ma H, Liu D, Pang X, Chang X, Zhao R, Wang J, Guo J, Zhang W. Efgartigimod in the treatment of Guillain-Barré syndrome. J Neurol 2024; 271:3506-3511. [PMID: 38532142 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12321-4] [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: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is caused by immunoglobulin G (IgG) autoantibodies. Efgartigimod, a human IgG antibody Fc fragment that acts as a natural ligand for the FcRn, can increase IgG degradation, which thus may be a promising therapeutic drug for GBS. CASE PRESENTATION The two patients presented with postinfectious and acute flaccid paralysis. On admission, they were bedridden. Nerve conduction studies indicated peripheral neuropathy. GBS was suspected and they are treated with two doses of efgartigimod (10 mg/kg) within 5 days. Their muscle strength improved gradually and 4 weeks after the initial dose, they could walk independently. Following the first dose, Patient 1 complaint of muscle soreness, which subsided the next morning. Patient 2 was intubated due to respiratory failure the day after the initial dose, and did not report other adverse effects. DISCUSSION In GBS patients, two doses of efgartigimod (10 mg/kg) were effective in rapidly improving muscle strength, with a satisfactory safety profile. The findings suggest a potential role for efgartigimod in modifying the disease process in GBS patients. CONCLUSION Efgartigimod seems effective and safe in the treatment of GBS. This study indicates the potential role of efgartigimod as a novel treatment option for GBS. Well-designed clinical trials should be conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiqiu Zhang
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, No.85, Jiefang South Street, Taiyuan, China
- First Clinical Medical College, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jing Ma
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, No.85, Jiefang South Street, Taiyuan, China
- First Clinical Medical College, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yingna Feng
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, No.85, Jiefang South Street, Taiyuan, China
| | - Hui Ma
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, No.85, Jiefang South Street, Taiyuan, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, No.85, Jiefang South Street, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xiaomin Pang
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, No.85, Jiefang South Street, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xueli Chang
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, No.85, Jiefang South Street, Taiyuan, China
| | - Rongjuan Zhao
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, No.85, Jiefang South Street, Taiyuan, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, No.85, Jiefang South Street, Taiyuan, China
| | - Junhong Guo
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, No.85, Jiefang South Street, Taiyuan, China.
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, No.85, Jiefang South Street, Taiyuan, China.
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Haghikia A, Schett G, Mougiakakos D. B cell-targeting chimeric antigen receptor T cells as an emerging therapy in neuroimmunological diseases. Lancet Neurol 2024; 23:615-624. [PMID: 38760099 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(24)00140-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuroimmunology research and development has been marked by substantial advances, particularly in the treatment of neuroimmunological diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders, and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody disease. With more than 20 drugs approved for multiple sclerosis alone, treatment has become more personalised. The approval of disease-modifying therapies, particularly those targeting B cells, has highlighted the role of immunotherapeutic interventions in the management of these diseases. Despite these successes, challenges remain, particularly for patients who do not respond to conventional therapies, underscoring the need for innovative approaches. RECENT DEVELOPMENTS The approval of monoclonal antibodies, such as ocrelizumab and ofatumumab, which target CD20, and inebilizumab, which targets CD19, for the treatment of various neuroimmunological diseases reflects progress in the understanding and management of B-cell activity. However, the limitations of these therapies in halting disease progression or activity in patients with multiple sclerosis or neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders have prompted the exploration of cell-based therapies, particularly chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells. Initially successful in the treatment of B cell-derived malignancies, CAR T cells offer a novel therapeutic mechanism by directly targeting and eliminating B cells, potentially overcoming the shortcomings of antibody-mediated B cell depletion. WHERE NEXT?: The use of CAR T cells in autoimmune diseases and B cell-driven neuroimmunological diseases shows promise as a targeted and durable option. CAR T cells act autonomously, penetrating deep tissue and effectively depleting B cells, especially in the CNS. Although the therapeutic potential of CAR T cells is substantial, their application faces hurdles such as complex logistics and management of therapy-associated toxic effects. Ongoing and upcoming clinical trials will be crucial in determining the safety, efficacy, and applicability of CAR T cells. As research progresses, CAR T cell therapy has the potential to transform treatment for patients with neuroimmunological diseases. It could offer extended periods of remission and a new standard in the management of autoimmune and neuroimmunological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiden Haghikia
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Georg Schett
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology and Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Friedrich Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Dimitrios Mougiakakos
- Department of Haematology, Oncology, and Cell Therapy and Oncology and Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology, and Inflammation (GCI(3)), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany.
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Lien PW, Joshi M, Tice JA, Agboola F, Nikitin D, Withanawasam V, Jatoi S, Touchette DR. Cost-effectiveness of eculizumab and efgartigimod for the treatment of anti-acetylcholine receptor antibody-positive generalized myasthenia gravis. J Manag Care Spec Pharm 2024; 30:517-527. [PMID: 38824625 DOI: 10.18553/jmcp.2024.30.6.517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Eculizumab and efgartigimod were approved to treat anti-acetylcholine receptor antibody-positive generalized myasthenia gravis (anti-AChR Ab-positive gMG). These relatively new biological treatments provide a more rapid onset of action and improved efficacy compared with conventional immunosuppressive treatments, but at a higher cost. OBJECTIVE To assess the cost-effectiveness of eculizumab and, separately, efgartigimod, each added to conventional therapy vs conventional therapy alone, among patients with refractory anti-AChR Ab-positive gMG and those with anti-AChR Ab-positive gMG, respectively. METHODS A Markov model with 4 health states was developed, evaluating costs and utility with a 4-week cycle length and lifetime time horizon from a health care system perspective and a modified societal perspective including productivity losses from patients and caregiver burden. Model inputs were informed by key clinical trials and relevant publications identified from targeted literature reviews, and drug costs were identified from Micromedex Red Book. Costs and outcomes were discounted at 3% per year. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs; cost per quality-adjusted life-year [QALY] gained) were calculated for each comparison. RESULTS Among the corresponding populations, lifetime costs and QALYs, respectively, for eculizumab were $5,515,000 and 11.85, and for conventional therapy, $308,000 and 10.29, resulting in an ICER of $3,338,000/QALY gained. For efgartigimod, lifetime costs and QALYs, respectively, were $6,773,000 and 13.22, and for conventional therapy, $322,000 and 9.98, yielding an ICER of $1,987,000/QALY gained. After applying indirect costs in a modified societal perspective, the ICERs were reduced to $3,310,000/QALY gained for eculizumab and $1,959,000/QALY gained for efgartigimod. CONCLUSIONS Eculizumab and efgartigimod are rapidly acting and effective treatments for myasthenia gravis. However, at their current price, both therapies greatly exceeded common cost-effectiveness thresholds, likely limiting patient access to these therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Wen Lien
- Department of Pharmacy Systems, Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois Chicago
| | - Mrinmayee Joshi
- Department of Pharmacy Systems, Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois Chicago
| | - Jeffrey A Tice
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of California San Francisco
| | | | | | - Vinura Withanawasam
- Department of Pharmacy Systems, Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois Chicago
| | - Saira Jatoi
- Department of Pharmacy Systems, Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois Chicago
| | - Daniel R Touchette
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of California San Francisco
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Crowe EP, Diaz-Arias LA, Habis R, Vozniak SO, Geocadin RG, Venkatesan A, Tobian AAR, Probasco JC, Bloch EM. Suspected autoimmune encephalitis: A retrospective study of patients referred for therapeutic plasma exchange. J Clin Apher 2024; 39:e22112. [PMID: 38634442 DOI: 10.1002/jca.22112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Autoimmune encephalitis (AE) comprises a heterogeneous group of autoantibody-mediated disorders targeting the brain parenchyma. Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE), one of several first-line therapies for AE, is often initiated when AE is suspected, albeit prior to an established diagnosis. We sought to characterize the role of TPE in the treatment of suspected AE. METHODS A single-center, retrospective analysis was performed of adults (≥18 years) who underwent at least one TPE procedure for "suspected AE." The following parameters were extracted and evaluated descriptively: clinicopathologic characteristics, treatment course, TPE-related adverse events, outcomes (e.g., modified Rankin scale [mRS]), and diagnosis once investigation was complete. RESULTS A total of 37 patients (median age 56 years, range 28-77 years, 62.2% male) were evaluated. Autoimmune antibody testing was positive in serum for 43.2% (n = 16) and cerebrospinal fluid for 29.7% (n = 11). Patients underwent a median of five TPE procedures (range 3-16), with 97.3% (n = 36) via a central line and 21.6% (n = 8) requiring at least one unit of plasma as replacement fluid. Fifteen patients (40.5%) experienced at least one TPE-related adverse event. Compared with mRS at admission, the mRS at discharge was improved in 21.6% (n = 8), unchanged in 59.5% (n = 22), or worse in 18.9% (n = 7). Final diagnosis of AE was determined to be definite in 48.6% (n = 18), probable in 8.1% (n = 3) and possible in 27.0% (n = 10). Six (16.2%) patients were ultimately determined to have an alternate etiology. CONCLUSION Empiric TPE for suspected AE is generally well-tolerated. However, its efficacy remains uncertain in the absence of controlled trials, particularly in the setting of seronegative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth P Crowe
- Division of Transfusion Medicine, Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Luisa A Diaz-Arias
- Johns Hopkins Encephalitis Center, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ralph Habis
- Johns Hopkins Encephalitis Center, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Sonja O Vozniak
- Division of Transfusion Medicine, Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Romergryko G Geocadin
- Johns Hopkins Encephalitis Center, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Arun Venkatesan
- Johns Hopkins Encephalitis Center, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Aaron A R Tobian
- Division of Transfusion Medicine, Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - John C Probasco
- Johns Hopkins Encephalitis Center, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Evan M Bloch
- Division of Transfusion Medicine, Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Fuchs L, Shelly S, Vigiser I, Kolb H, Regev K, Schwartzmann Y, Vaknin-Dembinsky A, Dori A, Karni A. Real-World experience with efgartigimod in patients with myasthenia gravis. J Neurol 2024; 271:3462-3470. [PMID: 38528163 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12293-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Recommendations for the treatment of myasthenia gravis (MG) have been difficult to develop because of limited evidence from large randomized controlled trials. New drugs and treatment approaches have recently been shown to be effective in phase 3 studies in seropositive generalized (g) MG. One such drug is efgartigimod, a human-Fc-fragment of IgG1, with a high affinity for the endosomal FcRn. We conducted a multicenter study to evaluate the real-world clinical and safety effects of efgartigimod in 22 gMG patients. We evaluated the strategies for the timing of re-treatment with it. The participants received a total of 59 efgartigimod -treatment cycles. The median number of cycles was 2 (range 1-6). Twenty patients (86.3%) improved by at least 2 MG-ADL points after the first treatment cycle. The median MG-ADL score at baseline was 6.5 (range: 3-17) and 2.5 (range: 0-9) post-treatment (p < 0.001). A consistent improvement of at least 2 points in the MG-ADL score after each cycle occurs in 18 patients. The effect duration of the treatment was usually between 4 and 12 weeks. Two major clinical patterns of treatment response were found. Treatment with efgartigimod was also associated with significant reductions of prednisone doses Overall, the treatment was safe and associated with only minor adverse events. The single fatality was apparently due tosevere respiratory failure. We found that efgartigimod is clinically effective, may be used as a steroid sparing agent and is generally safe for gMG patients. We recommend a personalized preventive treatment approach until clinical stabilization, followed by discontinuation and periodic evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lior Fuchs
- Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
| | - Shahar Shelly
- Department of Neurology, Rambam Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
- Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ifat Vigiser
- Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
- Neuroimmunology and MS Unit, Neurology Institute, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Hadar Kolb
- Neuroimmunology and MS Unit, Neurology Institute, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Keren Regev
- Neuroimmunology and MS Unit, Neurology Institute, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yoel Schwartzmann
- Department of Neurology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Adi Vaknin-Dembinsky
- Department of Neurology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Amir Dori
- Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
- Department of Neurology, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Arnon Karni
- Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel.
- Neuroimmunology and MS Unit, Neurology Institute, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
- The Neurology Institute, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, 6 Weizmann Street, 6423906, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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12
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Liu X, Li R, Li W, Liu W, Wang J, Jing Y. The rate of QMGS change predicts recurrence after thymectomy in myasthenia gravis. J Clin Neurosci 2024; 124:20-26. [PMID: 38640804 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2024.04.011] [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: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the relationship between short-term changes in quantitative myasthenia gravis score (QMGS) after thymectomy and postoperative recurrence in myasthenia gravis (MG) patients without thymoma. METHODS A retrospective observational cohort study. The QMGS of 44 patients with non-thymomatous MG were evaluated before and 1 month after thymectomy, and the frequency and time of postoperative recurrence were recorded. The reduction rate of QMGS (rr-QMGS) was defined as (QMGS one week before thymectomy - QMGS one month after thymectomy)/ QMGS one week before thymectomy × 100 %, as an indicator of short-term symptom change after thymectomy. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was established to determine an appropriate cut-off value of rr-QMGS for distinguishing postoperative recurrence. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was applied to predict postoperative recurrence. RESULTS Postoperative recurrence occurred in 21 patients (30 times in total) during follow-up. The mean annual recurrence rate was 3.98 times/year preoperatively and 0.30 times/year postoperatively. ROC analysis determined the cut-off value of rr-QMGS was 36.7 % (sensitivity 90.5 %, specificity 52.2 %). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that rr-QMGS<36.7 % (hazard rate[HR]6.251, P = 0.014) is positive predictor of postoperative recurrence. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that postoperative recurrence time was earlier in the low rr-QMGS group than in the high rr-QMGS group (12.62 vs. 36.60 months, p = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS Low rr-QMGS is associated with early postoperative recurrence. Rr-QMGS can be used to predict postoperative recurrence of non-thymomatous MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Liu
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Ran Li
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Wenwen Li
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Jiawei Wang
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Yun Jing
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China.
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13
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Alfaidi N, Karmastaji S, Matic A, Bril V. FcRn Inhibitor Therapies in Neurologic Diseases. CNS Drugs 2024; 38:425-441. [PMID: 38724842 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-024-01090-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
In the last decade, the landscape of treating autoimmune diseases has evolved with the emergence and approval of novel targeted therapies. Several new biological agents offer selective and target-specific immunotherapy and therefore fewer side effects, such as neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn)-targeting therapy. Neonatal Fc receptor-targeted therapies are engineered to selectively target FcRn through various methods, such as Fc fragments or monoclonal anti-FcRn antibodies. These approaches enhance the breakdown of autoantibodies by blocking the immunoglobulin G recycling pathway. This mechanism reduces overall plasma immunoglobulin levels, including the levels of pathogenic autoantibodies, without affecting the other immunoglobulin class immunoglobulin A, immunoglobulin E, immunoglobulin M, and immunoglobulin D levels. Drugs that inhibit FcRn include efgartigimod, rozanolixizumab, batoclimab, and nipocalimab. These medications can be administered either intravenously or subcutaneously. Numerous clinical trials are currently underway to investigate their effectiveness, safety, and tolerability in various neurological conditions, including myasthenia gravis and other neurological disorders such as chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, myositis, neuromyelitis optica, and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody disease. Positive results from clinical trials of efgartigimod and rozanolixizumab led to their approval for the treatment of generalized myasthenia gravis. Additional clinical trials are still ongoing. Neonatal Fc receptor inhibitor agents seem to be well tolerated. Reported adverse events include headache (most commonly observed with efgartigimod and rozanolixizumab), upper respiratory tract infection, urinary tract infection, diarrhea, pyrexia, and nausea. Additionally, some of these agents may cause transient hypoalbuminemia and hypercholesterolemia notably reported with batoclimab and nipocalimab. In this review, we discuss the available clinical data for FcRN inhibitor agents in treating different neurological autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nouf Alfaidi
- Ellen and Martin Prosserman Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, 5EC-309, TGH 200 Elizabeth St, Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Salama Karmastaji
- Ellen and Martin Prosserman Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, 5EC-309, TGH 200 Elizabeth St, Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Alexandria Matic
- Ellen and Martin Prosserman Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, 5EC-309, TGH 200 Elizabeth St, Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Vera Bril
- Ellen and Martin Prosserman Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, 5EC-309, TGH 200 Elizabeth St, Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada.
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14
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Zhang Z, Yang M, Luo T, Du X, Wang Z, Huang X, Zhang Y. Rescue treatment with add-on efgartigimod in a patient with impending myasthenic crisis: a case report. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2024; 17:17562864241254895. [PMID: 38813520 PMCID: PMC11135074 DOI: 10.1177/17562864241254895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by fluctuating muscle weakness. Severe patients may develop life-threatening respiratory failure and experience crisis. Plasma exchange or intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) is the first-line treatment option for myasthenia crisis, but some patients still poorly respond to them. Here, we first reported a generalized MG patient from China who was in a state of impending myasthenic crisis and did not respond effectively to IVIg but was successfully rescued by add-on efgartigimod. Especially, we also detected meaningful changes in T-cell and B-cell subsets after efgartigimod, promoting a potential role of efgartigimod in re-establishing immune homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhouao Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mingjin Yang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tiancheng Luo
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xue Du
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhouyi Wang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoyu Huang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 210000, China
- Department of Neurology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, No. 99 Huaihai West Road, Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
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15
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Jacob S. Treating myasthenia gravis beyond the eye clinic. Eye (Lond) 2024:10.1038/s41433-024-03133-x. [PMID: 38789789 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-024-03133-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is one of the most well characterised autoimmune disorders affecting the neuromuscular junction with autoantibodies targeting the acetylcholine receptor (AChR) complex. The vast majority of patients present with ocular symptoms including double vision and ptosis, but may progress on to develop generalised fatiguable muscle weakness. Severe involvement of the bulbar muscles can lead to dysphagia, dysarthria and breathing difficulties which can progress to myasthenic crisis needing ventilatory support. Given the predominant ocular onset of the disease, it is important that ophthalmologists are aware of the differential diagnosis, investigations and management including evolving therapies. When the disease remains localised to the extraocular muscles (ocular MG) IgG1 and IgG3 antibodies against the AChR (including clustered AChR) are present in nearly 50% of patients. In generalised MG this is seen in nearly 90% patients. Other antibodies include those against muscle specific tyrosine kinase (MuSK) and lipoprotein receptor related protein 4 (LRP4). Even though decremental response on repetitive nerve stimulation is the most well recognised neurophysiological abnormality, single fibre electromyogram (SFEMG) in experienced hands is the most sensitive test which helps in the diagnosis. Initial treatment should be using cholinesterase inhibitors and then proceeding to immunosuppression using corticosteroids and steroid sparing drugs. Patients requiring bulbar muscle support may need rescue therapies including plasma exchange and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg). Newer therapeutic targets include those against the B lymphocytes, complement system, neonatal Fc receptors (FcRn) and various other elements of the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saiju Jacob
- University Hospitals Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
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16
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Li Z, Xu Q, Huang J, Zhu Q, Yang X, Zhang M, Zhang S, Huang S, Yu G, Zheng P, Qin X, Feng J. Efgartigimod as rescue treatment in acute phase of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: A Case Report. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30421. [PMID: 38720715 PMCID: PMC11076956 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a central nervous system demyelinating disease. Current therapy methods, however, have limited effect on acute attacks except for intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP). Efgartigimod is a first-in-class novel human immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) Fc fragment approved for the treatment of generalized myasthenia gravis. Its capacity to rapidly decrease serum IgG levels, including pathogenic autoantibodies, positions it as a potentially effective option for managing the acute phase of NMOSD. Case presentation We report the case of a 59-year-old female patient with acute NMOSD, presenting with vision loss and numbness in all four limbs. Despite an initial inadequate response to intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP), the addition of Efgartigimod to her treatment regimen led to rapid improvement, notably including a significant reduction in serum aquaporin-4 antibody titers, total IgG levels, and inflammation cytokine levels. Furthermore, no adverse events were reported during a four-month follow-up period. Conclusion As an adjunct to glucocorticoid therapy, Efgartigimod has proven effective and safe for this patient. However, to ascertain its potential as a novel therapeutic option for acute NMOSD, larger-scale prospective clinical trials are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhizhong Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qiao Xu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jialu Huang
- 958th Hospital of the People's Liberation Army, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Qiyuan Zhu
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaolin Yang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Mengjie Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shaoru Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Siyuan Huang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Gang Yu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Peng Zheng
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xinyue Qin
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jinzhou Feng
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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17
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Ma G, Crowley AR, Heyndrickx L, Rogiers I, Parthoens E, Van Santbergen J, Ober RJ, Bobkov V, de Haard H, Ulrichts P, Hofman E, Louagie E, Balbino B, Ward ES. Differential effects of FcRn antagonists on the subcellular trafficking of FcRn and albumin. JCI Insight 2024; 9:e176166. [PMID: 38713534 PMCID: PMC11141909 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.176166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The homeostasis of IgG is maintained by the neonatal Fc receptor, FcRn. Consequently, antagonism of FcRn to reduce endogenous IgG levels is an emerging strategy for treating antibody-mediated autoimmune disorders using either FcRn-specific antibodies or an engineered Fc fragment. For certain FcRn-specific antibodies, this approach has resulted in reductions in the levels of serum albumin, the other major ligand transported by FcRn. Cellular and molecular analyses of a panel of FcRn antagonists have been carried out to elucidate the mechanisms leading to their differential effects on albumin homeostasis. These analyses have identified 2 processes underlying decreases in albumin levels during FcRn blockade: increased degradation of FcRn and competition between antagonist and albumin for FcRn binding. These findings have potential implications for the design of drugs to modulate FcRn function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanglong Ma
- Centre for Cancer Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew R. Crowley
- Centre for Cancer Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Eef Parthoens
- VIB BioImaging Core, Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Raimund J. Ober
- Centre for Cancer Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - E. Sally Ward
- Centre for Cancer Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
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18
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Gilhus NE, Andersen H, Andersen LK, Boldingh M, Laakso S, Leopoldsdottir MO, Madsen S, Piehl F, Popperud TH, Punga AR, Schirakow L, Vissing J. Generalized myasthenia gravis with acetylcholine receptor antibodies: A guidance for treatment. Eur J Neurol 2024; 31:e16229. [PMID: 38321574 DOI: 10.1111/ene.16229] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Generalized myasthenia gravis (MG) with antibodies against the acetylcholine receptor is a chronic disease causing muscle weakness. Access to novel treatments warrants authoritative treatment recommendations. The Nordic countries have similar, comprehensive health systems, mandatory health registers, and extensive MG research. METHODS MG experts and patient representatives from the five Nordic countries formed a working group to prepare treatment guidance for MG based on a systematic literature search and consensus meetings. RESULTS Pyridostigmine represents the first-line symptomatic treatment, while ambenonium and beta adrenergic agonists are second-line options. Early thymectomy should be undertaken if a thymoma, and in non-thymoma patients up to the age of 50-65 years if not obtaining remission on symptomatic treatment. Most patients need immunosuppressive drug treatment. Combining corticosteroids at the lowest possible dose with azathioprine is recommended, rituximab being an alternative first-line option. Mycophenolate, methotrexate, and tacrolimus represent second-line immunosuppression. Plasma exchange and intravenous immunoglobulin are used for myasthenic crises and acute exacerbations. Novel complement inhibitors and FcRn blockers are effective and fast-acting treatments with promising safety profiles. Their use depends on local availability, refunding policies, and cost-benefit analyses. Adapted physical training is recommended. Planning of pregnancies with optimal treatment, information, and awareness of neonatal MG is necessary. Social support and adaptation of work and daily life activities are recommended. CONCLUSIONS Successful treatment of MG rests on timely combination of different interventions. Due to spontaneous disease fluctuations, comorbidities, and changes in life conditions, regular long-term specialized follow-up is needed. Most patients do reasonably well but there is room for further improvement. Novel treatments are promising, though subject to restricted access due to costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nils Erik Gilhus
- Department of Neurology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Henning Andersen
- Department of Neurology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Linda Kahr Andersen
- Copenhagen Neuromuscular Center, Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marion Boldingh
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sini Laakso
- Department of Neurology, Brain Center, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Translational Immunology Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Sidsel Madsen
- The National Rehabilitation Center for Neuromuscular Diseases, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Fredrik Piehl
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Neurology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Anna Rostedt Punga
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - John Vissing
- Copenhagen Neuromuscular Center, Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
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19
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Miyake S, Serizawa K, Onishi S, Katsura Y, Baba M, Kurasawa M, Tomizawa-Shinohara H, Yorozu K, Matsumoto Y, Noguchi-Sasaki M. IL-6 receptor antibody treatment improves muscle weakness in experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis mouse model. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1356300. [PMID: 38751878 PMCID: PMC11094227 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1356300] [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: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by muscle weakness and fatigue. It is caused by pathological autoantibodies against components expressed at neuromuscular junctions, such as acetylcholine receptor (AChR). Interleukin-6 (IL-6) has been suggested to play a role in the pathogenesis of MG, and IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) antibody treatment may provide a novel therapeutic option. In this study, we investigated the effects of IL-6R antibody treatment in an experimental autoimmune MG (EAMG) mouse model. We demonstrated that IL-6R antibody treatment improved muscle weakness, reduced IgG deposition at neuromuscular junctions, and the levels of AChR autoantibodies in serum. In addition, follicular helper T cells and Th17, plasma cells in lymph nodes were lower in IL-6R antibody treated mice. Our findings suggest that IL-6R blockade may be a novel and effective therapeutic strategy for the treatment of MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shota Miyake
- Product Research Department, Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Yokohama, Japan
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20
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Ghafari-Saravi A, Haussmann A, Wu J, Cheng K. Treatment of severe perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis with efgartigimod. JAAD Case Rep 2024; 47:68-71. [PMID: 38659474 PMCID: PMC11039778 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdcr.2024.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Afsoon Ghafari-Saravi
- Department of Dermatology, Oregon Health & Science University, School of Medicine, Portland, Oregon
| | - Alana Haussmann
- Department of Rheumatology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jessica Wu
- Department of Dermatology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Kyle Cheng
- Department of Dermatology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
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21
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Li J, Wu X, Chu T, Tan X, Wang S, Qu R, Chen Z, Wang Z. The efficacy and safety of FcRn inhibitors in patients with myasthenia gravis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Neurol 2024; 271:2298-2308. [PMID: 38431900 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12247-x] [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: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease that causes local or generalized muscle weakness. Complement inhibitors and targeting of the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) to block IgG cycling are two novel and successful mechanisms. METHODS PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov were systematically searched to identify relevant studies published before May 18, 2023. Review Manager 5.3 software was used to assess the data. RESULTS We pooled 532 participants from six randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Compared to the placebo, the FcRn inhibitors were more efficacy in Myasthenia Gravis Activities of Daily Living (MG-ADL) (MD = - 1.69 [- 2.35, - 1.03], P < 0.00001), MG-ADL responder (RR = 2.01 [1.62, 2.48], P < 0.00001), Quantitative Myasthenia Gravis (QMG) (MD = - 2.45 [- 4.35, - 0.55], P = 0.01), Myasthenia Gravis Composite (MGC) (MD = - 2.97 [- 4.27, - 1.67], P < 0.00001), 15-item revised version of the Myasthenia Gravis Quality of Life (MGQoL15r) (MD = - 2.52 [- 3.54, - 1.50], P < 0.00001), without increasing the risk of safety. The subgroup analysis showed that efgartigimod was more effective than placebo in MG-ADL responders. Rozanolixizumab was more effective than the placebo except in QMG, and batoclimab was more effective than the placebo except in MG-ADL responder. Nipocalizumab did not show satisfactory efficacy in all outcomes. With the exception of rozanolixizumab, all drugs showed non-inferior safety profiles to placebo. CONCLUSION FcRn inhibitors have good efficacy and safety in patients with MG. Among them, efgartigimod and nipocalimab were effective without causing an increased safety risk. Rozanolixizumab, despite its superior efficacy, caused an increased incidence of adverse events. Current evidence does not suggest that nipocalimab is effective in patients with MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxuan Li
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Street, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xin Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Street, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Tianchen Chu
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Street, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xin Tan
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Shixin Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Street, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ruisi Qu
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Street, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhouqing Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Street, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Zhong Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Street, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu Province, China.
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Ouyang Y, Chen Y, Chen K, Tang Z, Shi G, Qu C, Zhang K, Yang H. Mendelian randomization and colocalization analysis reveal novel drug targets for myasthenia gravis. Hum Genomics 2024; 18:43. [PMID: 38659056 PMCID: PMC11040902 DOI: 10.1186/s40246-024-00607-7] [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: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a complex autoimmune disease affecting the neuromuscular junction with limited drug options, but the field of MG treatment recently benefits from novel biological agents. We performed a drug-targeted Mendelian randomization (MR) study to identify novel therapeutic targets of MG. METHODS Cis-expression quantitative loci (cis-eQTL), which proxy expression levels for 2176 druggable genes, were used for MR analysis. Causal relationships between genes and disease, identified by eQTL MR analysis, were verified by comprehensive sensitivity, colocalization, and protein quantitative loci (pQTL) MR analyses. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis was also performed to extend targets, followed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to explore the serum level of drug targets in MG patients. A phenome-wide MR analysis was then performed to assess side effects with a clinical trial review assessing druggability. RESULTS The eQTL MR analysis has identified eight potential targets for MG, one for early-onset MG and seven for late-onset MG. Further colocalization analyses indicated that CD226, CDC42BPB, PRSS36, and TNFSF12 possess evidence for colocalization with MG or late-onset MG. pQTL MR analyses identified the causal relations of TNFSF12 and CD226 with MG and late-onset MG. Furthermore, PPI analysis has revealed the protein interaction between TNFSF12-TNFSF13(APRIL) and TNFSF12-TNFSF13B(BLyS). Elevated TNFSF13 serum level of MG patients was also identified by ELISA experiments. This study has ultimately proposed three promising therapeutic targets (TNFSF12, TNFSF13, TNFSF13B) of MG. CONCLUSIONS Three drug targets associated with the BLyS/APRIL pathway have been identified. Multiple biological agents, including telitacicept and belimumab, are promising for MG therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhen Ouyang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, China
| | - Kangzhi Chen
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, China
| | - Zhenwei Tang
- Department of Dermatology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310013, Hangzhou, China
| | - Guanzhong Shi
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, China
| | - Chunrun Qu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, China
| | - Kaiyue Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, China
| | - Huan Yang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, China.
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De Bleecker JL, Remiche G, Alonso-Jiménez A, Van Parys V, Bissay V, Delstanche S, Claeys KG. Recommendations for the management of myasthenia gravis in Belgium. Acta Neurol Belg 2024:10.1007/s13760-024-02552-7. [PMID: 38649556 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-024-02552-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
International guidelines on the treatment of myasthenia gravis (MG) have been published but are not tailored to the Belgian situation. This publication presents recommendations from a group of Belgian MG experts for the practical management of MG in Belgium. It includes recommendations for treatment of adult patients with generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) or ocular myasthenia gravis (oMG). Depending on the MG-related antibody a treatment sequence is suggested with therapies that can be added on if the treatment goal is not achieved. Selection of treatments was based on the level of evidence of efficacy, registration and reimbursement status in Belgium, common daily practice and the personal views and experiences of the authors. The paper reflects the situation in February 2024. In addition to the treatment considerations, other relevant aspects in the management of MG are addressed, including comorbidities, drugs aggravating disease symptoms, pregnancy, and vaccination. As many new treatments might potentially come to market, a realistic future perspective on the impact of these treatments on clinical practice is given. In conclusion, these recommendations intend to be a guide for neurologists treating patients with MG in Belgium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan L De Bleecker
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Ghent and AZ Sint-Lucas, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Gauthier Remiche
- Centre de Référence Neuromusculaire, Department of Neurology, Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles (HUB)-Hôpital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alicia Alonso-Jiménez
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Antwerp University Hospital, Translational Neurosciences, UAntwerpen, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Vinciane Van Parys
- Department of Neurology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain (UCL), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Véronique Bissay
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, NEUR Research Group and Department of Neurology, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Kristl G Claeys
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory for Muscle Diseases and Neuropathies, Department of Neurosciences, KULeuven, and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium
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24
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Yang Y, Shen Z, Shi F, Wang F, Wen N. Efgartigimod as a novel FcRn inhibitor for autoimmune disease. Neurol Sci 2024:10.1007/s10072-024-07460-5. [PMID: 38644454 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-024-07460-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Immunoglobulin G (IgG) autoantibodies can lead to the formation of autoimmune diseases through Fab and/or Fc-mediated interactions with host molecules as well as activated T cells. The neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) binds at acidic pH IgG and albumin, and the mechanism for prolonging serum IgG half-life is making IgG re-entry into circulation by prompting it not to be degraded by lysosomes and back to the cell surface. Given the FcRn receptor's essential role in IgG homeostasis, one of the strategies to promote the quick degradation of endogenous IgG is to suppress the function of FcRn, which is beneficial to the treatment of IgG-driven autoimmune disorders like myasthenia gravis (MG), chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP), stiff person syndrome, and immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). We elaborately read the literature about efgartigimod and systematically reviewed the research progress and clinical application of this novel FcRn inhibitor in autoimmune diseases. Efgartigimod is the firstly FcRn antagonist developed and was approved on 17 December 2021 by the United States for the therapy of acetylcholine receptor-positive MG. In January 2022, efgartigimod received its second regulatory approval in Japan. In addition, the market authorization application in Europe was submitted and validated in August 2021. China's National Medical Products Administration officially accepted the marketing application of efgartigimod on July 13, 2022. To suppress the function of FcRn, which is beneficial to the treatment of IgG-driven autoimmune disorders like MG, CIDP, ITP, and stiff person syndrome. We review the rationale, clinical evidence, and future perspectives of efgartigimod for the treatment of autoimmune disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Yang
- Department of Stomatology, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Yantai, Shandong, 264000, China
| | - Zhengxuan Shen
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Devices of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310000, China
| | - Fan Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Shan'xi, Xi'an, 710000, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Yantai, Shandong, 264000, China.
| | - Ning Wen
- Department of Orthodontics, Hangzhou Dental Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, People's Republic of China.
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25
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Chen J, Feng L, Li S, Wang H, Huang X, Shen C, Feng H. Therapeutic Plasma Exchange in AChR-Ab Positive Generalized Myasthenia Gravis: A Real World Study About Its Early Response. J Inflamm Res 2024; 17:2299-2308. [PMID: 38645879 PMCID: PMC11032135 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s455104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Since there is no clear priority or selection principle in the guidelines for myasthenia crisis, therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) and intravenous immunoglobulin are often administered randomly. However, it should be more prudent in taking TPE due to its higher cost and risk. Studying its early response factors is crucial for managing myasthenia crisis and can improve medical and economic benefits. Methods A prospective observational study was conducted, and patients classified as having "impending myasthenia crisis" or experiencing a myasthenia crisis and treated by TPE were included. The primary endpoint was the response after TPE. Univariate logistic regression analysis and repeated measurement were performed to analyze factors related to TPE efficacy. Results A total of 30 patients who treated with TPE as their fast-acting treatments were enrolled. After TPE, those whose QMGs and/or MGCs decreased by ≥5 points or ≥30% of the baseline were judged as "response group", accounting for 66.67% (20/30). Respiratory symptoms had a response rate of 72.00% (18/25), showing the most remarkable improvement. Meanwhile, extraocular symptoms were the least sensitive, with only 8.00% (2/25) showing efficacy. Thymoma (100.00% vs 50.00%, P=0.002) and a high concentration of AChR-Ab (37.37 nmol/L vs 25.4 nmol/L, P=0.039) were common in the early response group. Repeated measures showed significant changes in AChR-Ab and CD19+ B cells before and after TPE (all with P < 0.05). After treatment, the CD19+ B cells tended to decrease in the response group. Discussion These results indicated that, for AChR-Ab positive generalized MG, TPE can quickly improve respiratory symptoms. Thymoma and a high concentration of AChR-Ab before TPE predict an early better response. Additionally, TPE may work by decreasing AChR-Ab levels and inducing immune regulation. Future prospective and randomized controlled studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Chen
- Department of Neurology and Neurointensive Care Unit, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Li Feng
- Department of Neurology and Neurointensive Care Unit, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shiyin Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Haiyan Wang
- Department of Neurology and Neurointensive Care Unit, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xin Huang
- Department of Neurology and Neurointensive Care Unit, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Cunzhou Shen
- Department of Neurology and Neurointensive Care Unit, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Huiyu Feng
- Department of Neurology and Neurointensive Care Unit, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
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26
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Fisse AL, Schäfer E, Hieke A, Schröder M, Klimas R, Brünger J, Huckemann S, Grüter T, Sgodzai M, Schneider-Gold C, Gold R, Nguyen HP, Pitarokoili K, Motte J, Arning L. Association of the neonatal Fc receptor promoter variable number of tandem repeat polymorphism with immunoglobulin response in patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. Eur J Neurol 2024; 31:e16205. [PMID: 38205888 DOI: 10.1111/ene.16205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is an autoimmune disease with humoral and cellular autoimmunity causing demyelination of peripheral nerves, commonly treated with intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIg). The neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn), encoded by the FCGRT gene, prevents the degradation of immunoglobulin G (IgG) by recycling circulating IgG. A variable number of tandem repeat (VNTR) polymorphism in the promoter region of the FCGRT gene is associated with different expression levels of mRNA and protein. Thus, patients with genotypes associated with relatively low FcRn expression may show a poorer treatment response to IVIg due to increased IVIg degradation. METHODS VNTR genotypes were analyzed in 144 patients with CIDP. Patients' clinical data, including neurological scores and treatment data, were collected as part of the Immune-Mediated Neuropathies Biobank registry. RESULTS Most patients (n = 124, 86%) were VNTR 3/3 homozygotes, and 20 patients (14%) were VNTR 2/3 heterozygotes. Both VNTR 3/3 and VNTR 2/3 genotype groups showed no difference in clinical disability and immunoglobulin dosage. However, patients with a VNTR 2 allele were more likely to receive subcutaneous immunoglobulins (SCIg) than patients homozygous for the VNTR 3 allele (25% vs. 9.7%, p = 0.02) and were more likely to receive second-line therapy (75% vs. 54%, p = 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The VNTR 2/3 genotype is associated with the administration of SCIg, possibly reflecting a greater benefit from SCIg due to more constant immunoglobulin levels without lower IVIg levels between the treatment circles. Also, the greater need for second-line treatment in VNTR 2/3 patients could be an indirect sign of a lower response to immunoglobulins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Lena Fisse
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-Mediated Neuropathies Biobank, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Emelie Schäfer
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-Mediated Neuropathies Biobank, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Alina Hieke
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-Mediated Neuropathies Biobank, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Maximilian Schröder
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-Mediated Neuropathies Biobank, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Rafael Klimas
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-Mediated Neuropathies Biobank, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Jil Brünger
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-Mediated Neuropathies Biobank, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Sophie Huckemann
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-Mediated Neuropathies Biobank, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Thomas Grüter
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-Mediated Neuropathies Biobank, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Melissa Sgodzai
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-Mediated Neuropathies Biobank, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | | | - Ralf Gold
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-Mediated Neuropathies Biobank, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Huu Phuc Nguyen
- Department of Human Genetics, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Kalliopi Pitarokoili
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-Mediated Neuropathies Biobank, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Jeremias Motte
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-Mediated Neuropathies Biobank, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Larissa Arning
- Department of Human Genetics, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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Hoffmann S, Verlohren S, Herdick M. [Myasthenia gravis-Gender aspects and family planning]. DER NERVENARZT 2024; 95:316-328. [PMID: 38499774 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-024-01640-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is evidence that gender-specific differences can influence the diagnostics, treatment and long-term disease course of myasthenia gravis (MG). In women the diagnosis is often made during childbearing age. OBJECTIVE Gender-specific differences in MG and relevant aspects in routine clinical practice are presented. In addition, current studies on family planning, pregnancy and childbirth in MG are highlighted and treatment recommendations are derived. MATERIAL AND METHODS Narrative literature review. RESULTS In addition to sociodemographic data, gender-specific differences encompass clinical as well as paraclinical factors, such as disease severity and antibody status. With few exceptions pregnancy is possible with good maternal and neonatal outcome. During pregnancy and peripartum, children of MG patients should be closely monitored for early detection and treatment of potential syndromes caused by diaplacental transfer of maternal antibodies. CONCLUSION Gender-specific factors can influence the course of MG. Adequate medical counselling and multidisciplinary collaboration are essential for MG patients who wish to have children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Hoffmann
- Department of Neurology, Neuroscience Clinical Research Center (NCRC) and Integrated Myasthenia Gravis Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Deutschland.
| | - Stefan Verlohren
- Department of Obstetrics, Charité - Universitätsmedizin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Meret Herdick
- Department of Neurology, Neuroscience Clinical Research Center (NCRC) and Integrated Myasthenia Gravis Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Deutschland
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28
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Kessi M, Tang Y, Chen B, Wang G, Zhang C, He F, Peng J, Yin F, Yang L. Pediatric Ocular Myasthenia Gravis: Single-Center Experience. Pediatr Neurol 2024; 153:137-143. [PMID: 38382246 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2024.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Currently, there is no universally accepted standard treatment for ocular myasthenia gravis (OMG) in children. We aimed to investigate the possible proper regimens and timing of treatment for pediatric OMG cases based on the clinical manifestations: OMG with ptosis only and OMG with other features. METHODS One hundred and forty two OMG cases attended at the Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, from 2010 to 2019 were included, and information from medical records was reviewed and recorded. Comparisons of clinical characteristics between patients with OMG with ptosis only and patients with OMG with other features as well as between patients treated with glucocorticoid (GC) within or after six months from disease onset were performed. RESULTS OMG with other features constituted about 54.9% of the cases, and 66.2% of the patients achieved optimal outcome. Patients with OMG with ptosis only responded to pyridostigmine alone more than patients with OMG with other features who required several therapies (P < 0.001). Patients with OMG with ptosis only had a larger proportion of optimal outcome than the patients with OMG with other features (P = 0.002), and the difference remained significant even when the individual outcome groups were compared (P < 0.001). Patients who received GC within six months had a greater proportion of optimal outcome than those who received it after six months (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Although OMG with other features is a more common subtype of OMG, it is also more severe than OMG with ptosis only. An earlier addition of GC leads to optimal outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Kessi
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yulin Tang
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Baiyu Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Guoli Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China; Clinical Research Center for Children Neurodevelopmental Disabilities of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ciliu Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China; Clinical Research Center for Children Neurodevelopmental Disabilities of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Fang He
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China; Clinical Research Center for Children Neurodevelopmental Disabilities of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jing Peng
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China; Clinical Research Center for Children Neurodevelopmental Disabilities of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Fei Yin
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China; Clinical Research Center for Children Neurodevelopmental Disabilities of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lifen Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China; Clinical Research Center for Children Neurodevelopmental Disabilities of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
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29
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Gutschmidt K, Schoser B. [Myasthenia Gravis - Update]. FORTSCHRITTE DER NEUROLOGIE-PSYCHIATRIE 2024; 92:139-156. [PMID: 38636491 DOI: 10.1055/a-2238-7784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis - still a challenge for sufferers and doctors in 2023. But which therapy is best suited? Our clinically experienced experts have summarized the current guidelines for diagnosis and treatment in order to provide optimal support for those affected. Find out how you can carry out a quick and targeted diagnosis and which treatment options are available to alleviate the course of the disease.
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30
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Frangiamore R, Rinaldi E, Vanoli F, Andreetta F, Ciusani E, Bonanno S, Maggi L, Gallone A, Colasuonno A, Tramacere I, Cheli M, Pinna A, Mantegazza R, Antozzi C. Efgartigimod in generalized myasthenia gravis: A real-life experience at a national reference center. Eur J Neurol 2024; 31:e16189. [PMID: 38164996 DOI: 10.1111/ene.16189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Inhibition of the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) for IgG is a promising new therapeutic strategy for antibody-mediated disorders. We report our real-life experience with efgartigimod (EFG) in 19 patients with generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) along a clinical follow-up of 14 months. METHODS EFG was administered according to the GENERATIVE protocol (consisting of a Fixed period of two treatment cycles [given 1 month apart] of four infusions at weekly intervals, followed by a Flexible period of re-cycling in case of worsening). Eight patients were positive for acetylcholine receptor antibody, four for muscle-specific tyrosine kinase antibody, and two for lipoprotein-related protein 4 antibody, and five were classified as triple negative. Efficacy of EFG was assessed by the Myasthenia Gravis Activities of Daily Living, Myasthenia Gravis Composite, and Quantitative Myasthenia Gravis scales. RESULTS Fifty-three percent of patients needed three treatment cycles, 26% needed four, and 21% needed five along the 14-month clinical follow-up. Meaningful improvement was observed at the end of each cycle with the clinical scores adopted. EFG had a dramatic effect on disease course, as during the year before treatment eight of 19 patients (42%) were hospitalized, and 15 of 19 (79%) needed treatment with plasma exchange or immunoglobulins; three of 19 (16%) were admitted to the intensive care unit. During EFG, none of the patients was hospitalized and only one patient required plasma exchange and intravenous immunoglobulins. No major side effects or infusion-related reactions occurred. CONCLUSIONS We observed that EFG was safe and modified significantly the course of the disease along a 14-month follow-up. Our experience strengthens the role of FcRn inhibition as an effective new tool for long-term treatment of gMG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Frangiamore
- Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Rinaldi
- Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Fiammetta Vanoli
- Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milan, Italy
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Andreetta
- Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Emilio Ciusani
- Laboratory of Neurological Biochemistry and Neuropharmacology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Bonanno
- Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Maggi
- Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Annamaria Gallone
- Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Colasuonno
- Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Irene Tramacere
- Department of Research and Clinical Development, Scientific Directorate, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Cheli
- Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Renato Mantegazza
- Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlo Antozzi
- Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milan, Italy
- Immunotherapy and Apheresis Departmental Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milan, Italy
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He T, Chen K, Li Y, Luo Z, Luo M, Yang H. Clinical Features and Prognostic Analysis of MuSK-Antibody-Positive Myasthenia Gravis versus Double-Seropositive Myasthenia Gravis: A Single-Center Study from Central South China. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2024; 20:725-735. [PMID: 38566882 PMCID: PMC10986406 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s450651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose To decipher the discrepancies between muscle-specific kinase antibody-positive myasthenia gravis (MuSK-MG) and double-seropositive myasthenia gravis (DSP-MG), and to determine prognostic factors for minimal manifestation status (MMS) achievement in MG patients with MuSK autoantibodies (MuSK-Ab). Patients and Methods A total of 34 MG patients seropositive for MuSK-Ab were enrolled in this study. The demographic and clinical features were compared between MuSK-MG (n = 28) and DSP-MG (n = 6) patients, and factors affecting MMS induction in all patients with MuSK-Ab were identified using Cox regression analysis. Results Compared to MuSK-MG patients, those with DSP-MG had similar clinical characteristics, except that they had a lower frequency of bulbar muscle involvement at nadir (50% vs 92.9%; P = 0.029) and higher proportions of comorbidities with diabetes mellitus (33.3% vs 0%; P = 0.027) and thymic abnormalities (33.3% vs 0%; P = 0.027). Higher MG Activities of Daily Living (MG-ADL) scores (HR = 0.16, 95% CI: 0.037-0.7, P = 0.015) and axial muscle involvement at nadir (HR = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.16-0.94, P = 0.035) were negative prognostic factors for MMS achievement in patients with MuSK-Ab regardless of acetylcholine receptor antibody (AChR-Ab) positivity. Multivariable Cox regression analysis further established higher MG-ADL scores at the nadir (HR = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.04-0.94; P = 0.042) as an independent risk factor for MMS achievement. Conclusion DSP-MG was comparable to MuSK-MG and could be considered a single entity in our cohort. In all MG patients with MuSK-Ab, a higher MG-ADL score at nadir may herald a lower chance of MMS achievement, with no observed potential effect of AChR-Ab presence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting He
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, People’s Republic of China
| | - Kangzhi Chen
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhaohui Luo
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mengchuan Luo
- Department of Geriatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, People’s Republic of China
| | - Huan Yang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, People’s Republic of China
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Meisel A, Saccà F, Spillane J, Vissing J. Expert consensus recommendations for improving and standardising the assessment of patients with generalised myasthenia gravis. Eur J Neurol 2024:e16280. [PMID: 38523419 DOI: 10.1111/ene.16280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Regular and consistent disease assessment could provide a clearer picture of burden in generalised myasthenia gravis (gMG) and improve patient care; however, the use of assessment tools in practice lacks standardisation. This modified Delphi approach was taken to review current evidence on assessment tool use in gMG and develop expert-derived consensus recommendations for good practice. METHODS A European expert panel of 15 experienced gMG neurologists contributed to development of this consensus, four of whom formed a lead Sub-committee. The PICO (Population, Intervention, Control, Outcomes) framework was used to define six clinical questions on gMG assessment tools, a systematic literature review was conducted, and evidence-based statements were developed. According to a modified Delphi voting process, consensus was reached when ≥70% of the experts rated agreement with a statement as ≥8 on a scale of 1-10. RESULTS Eighteen expert- and evidence-based consensus statements based on six themes were developed. Key recommendations include: consistent use of the Myasthenia Gravis Activities of Daily Living score (MG-ADL) across clinical settings, followed by a simple question (e.g., Patient Acceptable Symptom State [PASS]) or scale to determine patient satisfaction in clinical practice; use of a Quantitative Myasthenia Gravis [QMG] or quality of life [QoL] assessment when the MG-ADL indicates disease worsening; and consideration of symptom state to determine the timing and frequency of recommended assessments. Expert panel consensus was reached on all 18 statements after two voting rounds. CONCLUSIONS This process provided evidence- and expert consensus-based recommendations for the use of objective and subjective assessment tools across gMG research and care to improve management and outcomes for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Meisel
- Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Neuroscience Clinical Research Center, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Francesco Saccà
- GENESIS Department, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Jennifer Spillane
- National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, UCLH NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - John Vissing
- Copenhagen Neuromuscular Center, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Dziadkowiak E, Baczyńska D, Waliszewska-Prosół M. MuSK Myasthenia Gravis-Potential Pathomechanisms and Treatment Directed against Specific Targets. Cells 2024; 13:556. [PMID: 38534400 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease in which autoantibodies target structures within the neuromuscular junction, affecting neuromuscular transmission. Muscle-specific tyrosine kinase receptor-associated MG (MuSK-MG) is a rare, often more severe, subtype of the disease with different pathogenesis and specific clinical features. It is characterized by a more severe clinical course, more frequent complications, and often inadequate response to treatment. Here, we review the current state of knowledge about potential pathomechanisms of the MuSK-MG and their therapeutic implications as well as ongoing research in this field, with reference to key points of immune-mediated processes involved in the background of myasthenia gravis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edyta Dziadkowiak
- Department of Neurology, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Dagmara Baczyńska
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 211A, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
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Skov M, Ruijs TQ, Grønnebæk TS, Skals M, Riisager A, Winther JB, Dybdahl KLT, Findsen A, Morgen JJ, Huus N, Broch-Lips M, Nielsen OB, de Cuba CMKE, Heuberger JAAC, de Kam ML, Tannemaat M, Verschuuren JJGM, Knutsen LJS, Kelly NM, Jensen KG, Arnold WD, Burghes AH, Olesen C, Bold J, Petersen TK, Quiroz JA, Hutchison J, Chin ER, Groeneveld GJ, Pedersen TH. The ClC-1 chloride channel inhibitor NMD670 improves skeletal muscle function in rat models and patients with myasthenia gravis. Sci Transl Med 2024; 16:eadk9109. [PMID: 38507469 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adk9109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a neuromuscular disease that results in compromised transmission of electrical signals at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) from motor neurons to skeletal muscle fibers. As a result, patients with MG have reduced skeletal muscle function and present with symptoms of severe muscle weakness and fatigue. ClC-1 is a skeletal muscle specific chloride (Cl-) ion channel that plays important roles in regulating neuromuscular transmission and muscle fiber excitability during intense exercise. Here, we show that partial inhibition of ClC-1 with an orally bioavailable small molecule (NMD670) can restore muscle function in rat models of MG and in patients with MG. In severely affected MG rats, ClC-1 inhibition enhanced neuromuscular transmission, restored muscle function, and improved mobility after both single and prolonged administrations of NMD670. On this basis, NMD670 was progressed through nonclinical safety pharmacology and toxicology studies, leading to approval for testing in clinical studies. After successfully completing phase 1 single ascending dose in healthy volunteers, NMD670 was tested in patients with MG in a randomized, placebo-controlled, single-dose, three-way crossover clinical trial. The clinical trial evaluated safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of NMD670 in 12 patients with mild MG. NMD670 had a favorable safety profile and led to clinically relevant improvements in the quantitative myasthenia gravis (QMG) total score. This translational study spanning from single muscle fiber recordings to patients provides proof of mechanism for ClC-1 inhibition as a potential therapeutic approach in MG and supports further development of NMD670.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Skov
- NMD Pharma A/S, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Titia Q Ruijs
- Centre for Human Drug Research, 2333 CL Leiden, Netherlands
- Leiden University Medical Centre, 2333 ZA Leiden, Netherlands
| | | | - Marianne Skals
- NMD Pharma A/S, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Anders Riisager
- NMD Pharma A/S, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | | | | | - Anders Findsen
- NMD Pharma A/S, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Jeanette J Morgen
- NMD Pharma A/S, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Nete Huus
- NMD Pharma A/S, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Martin Broch-Lips
- NMD Pharma A/S, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Ole B Nielsen
- NMD Pharma A/S, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Ole Worms Alle 4, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Catherine M K E de Cuba
- Centre for Human Drug Research, 2333 CL Leiden, Netherlands
- Leiden University Medical Centre, 2333 ZA Leiden, Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | - Lars J S Knutsen
- NMD Pharma A/S, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Nicholas M Kelly
- NMD Pharma A/S, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Klaus G Jensen
- NMD Pharma A/S, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - William D Arnold
- NextGen Precision Health, University of Missouri, 1030 Hitt St, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Arthur H Burghes
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 1060 Carmack Road, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Neurology, Neuromuscular Division, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 395 W. 12(th) Ave, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Claus Olesen
- NMD Pharma A/S, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Ole Worms Alle 4, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Jane Bold
- NMD Pharma A/S, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Thomas K Petersen
- NMD Pharma A/S, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Jorge A Quiroz
- NMD Pharma A/S, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - John Hutchison
- NMD Pharma A/S, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Eva R Chin
- NMD Pharma A/S, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Geert J Groeneveld
- Centre for Human Drug Research, 2333 CL Leiden, Netherlands
- Leiden University Medical Centre, 2333 ZA Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Thomas H Pedersen
- NMD Pharma A/S, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Ole Worms Alle 4, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
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Theissen L, Schroeter CB, Huntemann N, Räuber S, Dobelmann V, Cengiz D, Herrmann A, Koch-Hölsken K, Gerdes N, Hu H, Mourikis P, Polzin A, Kelm M, Hartung HP, Meuth SG, Nelke C, Ruck T. Recombinant Acetylcholine Receptor Immunization Induces a Robust Model of Experimental Autoimmune Myasthenia Gravis in Mice. Cells 2024; 13:508. [PMID: 38534352 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a prototypical autoimmune disease of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). The study of the underlying pathophysiology has provided novel insights into the interplay of autoantibodies and complement-mediated tissue damage. Experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis (EAMG) emerged as a valuable animal model, designed to gain further insight and to test novel therapeutic approaches for MG. However, the availability of native acetylcholine receptor (AChR) protein is limited favouring the use of recombinant proteins. To provide a simplified platform for the study of MG, we established a model of EAMG using a recombinant protein containing the immunogenic sequence of AChR in mice. This model recapitulates key features of EAMG, including fatigable muscle weakness, the presence of anti-AChR-antibodies, and engagement of the NMJ by complement and a reduced NMJ density. Further characterization of this model demonstrated a prominent B cell immunopathology supported by T follicular helper cells. Taken together, the herein-presented EAMG model may be a valuable tool for the study of MG pathophysiology and the pre-clinical testing of therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Theissen
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Duesseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Christina B Schroeter
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Duesseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Niklas Huntemann
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Duesseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Saskia Räuber
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Duesseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Vera Dobelmann
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Duesseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Derya Cengiz
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Duesseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Alexander Herrmann
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Duesseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Kathrin Koch-Hölsken
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Duesseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Norbert Gerdes
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonolgy and Vascular Medicine, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Duesseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Hao Hu
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonolgy and Vascular Medicine, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Duesseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Philipp Mourikis
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonolgy and Vascular Medicine, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Duesseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Amin Polzin
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonolgy and Vascular Medicine, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Duesseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Malte Kelm
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonolgy and Vascular Medicine, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Duesseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Hans-Peter Hartung
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Duesseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
- Brain and Mind Center, University of Sidney, Sidney NSW 2050, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Palacky University Olomouc, 77146 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Sven G Meuth
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Duesseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Christopher Nelke
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Duesseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Tobias Ruck
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Duesseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
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Moura J, Fernandes J, Lima MJ, Sousa AP, Samões R, Martins Silva A, Santos E. Treatment strategies and treatment-related adverse events in MG according to the age of onset. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1277420. [PMID: 38529037 PMCID: PMC10961456 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1277420] [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: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Early-onset (EOMG) and late-onset (LOMG) are distinct groups of MG patients. It is unclear if treatment strategies and treatment-related adverse events may differ according to the age of MG onset. Methods This single-center retrospective study includes all MG patients followed at a tertiary center since 2007. We reviewed the electronic clinical records. Results In total, 212 patients were identified, 142 (67.0%) females, with a median disease duration of 10 years. The median age of symptom onset was 42.0 (26.0-64.5) years, with 130 (61.3%) EOMG cases and 82 (38.7%) LOMG. EOMG were more frequently female, had longer disease duration and often more generalized MG (p < 0.001). Comorbidities were significantly more frequent in LOMG (67.1%) compared to EOMG (53.1%) (p = 0.002). Steroid-related adverse effects motivating the switch to steroid-sparing agents (82.0%) were different between groups, with hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes mellitus and malignancies being more common in LOMG. At the same time, osteoporosis and dyspepsia were more frequent in EOMG (p < 0.001). The most common first-line choice was azathioprine (45.8%), and rituximab was used in 4 patients (1.9%). Conclusion Our study shows that treatment modalities are similar between EOMG and LOMG, while steroid-related adverse events appear to be distinct.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Moura
- Department of Neurology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, Porto, Portugal
- Unit of Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Joana Fernandes
- Department of Neurology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria João Lima
- Department of Neurology, Unidade Local de Saúde de Matosinhos, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Paula Sousa
- Department of Neurophysiology, Hospital de Santo António, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Raquel Samões
- Department of Neurology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, Porto, Portugal
- Unit of Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Martins Silva
- Department of Neurology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, Porto, Portugal
- Unit of Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), Porto, Portugal
| | - Ernestina Santos
- Department of Neurology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, Porto, Portugal
- Unit of Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), Porto, Portugal
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Yan C, Yue Y, Guan Y, Bu B, Ke Q, Duan R, Deng H, Xue Q, Jiang H, Xiao F, Yang H, Chang T, Zou Z, Li H, Tan S, Xiao H, Zhou H, Zhang H, Meng Q, Li W, Li W, Guo J, Zhang Y, Li Z, Tu J, Shi J, Li W, Lee M, Chen Y, Tao X, Zhao S, Li P, Zhao C. Batoclimab vs Placebo for Generalized Myasthenia Gravis: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Neurol 2024:2815832. [PMID: 38436998 PMCID: PMC10913013 DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2024.0044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Importance Myasthenia gravis (MG) is caused by autoantibodies that disrupt the neuromuscular junction. The neonatal fragment crystallizable receptor (FcRn) antagonists, efgartigimod and rozanolixizumab, reduce immunoglobulin G (IgG) level in the circulation and alleviate symptoms in patients with generalized MG. Objective To examine the efficacy and safety profile of batoclimab, a monoclonal IgG1 antibody, in patients with generalized MG. Design, Setting, and Participants This was a multicenter randomized clinical trial conducted from September 15, 2021, to June 29, 2022, at 27 centers in China. Adult patients 18 years or older with generalized MG were screened, and those who were antibody positive were enrolled. Intervention Eligible patients received batoclimab or matching placebo in addition to standard of care. Each treatment cycle consisted of 6 weekly subcutaneous injections of batoclimab, 680 mg, or matching placebo followed by 4 weeks of observation. A second treatment cycle was conducted in patients who required continuing treatment. Main Outcome and Measure The primary outcome was sustained improvement, as defined by a 3-point or greater reduction in the Myasthenia Gravis Activities of Daily Living (MG-ADL) score from baseline for 4 or more consecutive weeks in the first cycle in individuals who were positive for acetylcholine receptor or muscle-specific kinase antibodies. Results A total of 178 adult patients with generalized MG were screened, 132 were randomly assigned, 131 tested positive for antibodies, and 1 tested negative for antibodies. A total of 132 patients (mean [SE] age, 43.8 [13.6] years; 88 women [67.2%]) were enrolled. The rate of sustained MG-ADL improvement in the first cycle in antibody-positive patients was 31.3% (20 of 64) in the placebo group vs 58.2% (39 of 67) in the batoclimab group (odds ratio, 3.45; 95% CI, 1.62-7.35; P = .001). The MG-ADL score diverged between the 2 groups as early as week 2. The mean (SE) maximum difference in MG-ADL score reduction occurred 1 week after the last dose (day 43, 1.7 [0.3] in the placebo group vs 3.6 [0.3] in the batoclimab group; group difference, -1.9; 95% CI, -2.8 to -1.0; nominal P < .001). The rates of treatment-related and severe treatment-emergent adverse events in patients were 36.9% (24 of 65) and 7.7% (5 of 65) in the placebo group vs 70.1% (47 of 67) and 3.0% (2 of 67) in the batoclimab group, respectively. Conclusions and Relevance Batoclimab increased the rate of sustained MG-ADL improvement and was well tolerated in adult patients with generalized MG. Clinical effects and the extent of IgG reduction were similar to those previously reported for efgartigimod and rozanolixizumab. Future studies of large sample size are needed to further understand the safety profile of batoclimab. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05039190.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong Yan
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Rare Disease Centre, Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yaoxian Yue
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yuzhou Guan
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bitao Bu
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qing Ke
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ruisheng Duan
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Ji’nan, China
| | - Hui Deng
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Qun Xue
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Haishan Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fei Xiao
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Huan Yang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ting Chang
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Zhangyu Zou
- Department of Neurology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Haifeng Li
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Song Tan
- Department of Neurology, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Haibing Xiao
- Neuromedicine Center, Department of Neurology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hongyu Zhou
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qiang Meng
- Department of Neurology, the First People’s Hospital of Yunnan Province & the Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Wenyu Li
- Department of Neurology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Ji’nan, China
| | - Junhong Guo
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yali Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Chifeng Municipal Hospital, Chifeng, China
| | - Zunbo Li
- Department of Neurology, Xi’an Gaoxin Hospital, Xi’an Medical College, Xi’an, China
| | - Jianglong Tu
- Department of Neurology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jianquan Shi
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Neurology, Army Medical Center of PLA, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Michael Lee
- Nona Biosciences (Suzhou) Co Ltd, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Nona Biosciences (Suzhou) Co Ltd, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaolu Tao
- Nona Biosciences (Suzhou) Co Ltd, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuai Zhao
- Nona Biosciences (Suzhou) Co Ltd, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Li
- Nona Biosciences (Suzhou) Co Ltd, Shanghai, China
| | - Chongbo Zhao
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Rare Disease Centre, Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Bax C, Aghdasi C, Fiorentino D. Novel therapeutic targets in dermatomyositis. J Dermatol 2024. [PMID: 38433369 DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.17170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Dermatomyositis (DM) is a systemic autoimmune disease with variable clinical presentations, including inflammation in the skin, muscle, lungs, and/or joints. Current therapeutic strategies in DM typically include broad immunosuppression; however, the currently used modalities are not universally effective and are associated with various side effects, including risk of infection. There is currently a highly unmet need for more effective and well-tolerated therapies. Recent years have witnessed increased interest in pharmaceutical development of new therapeutic strategies for DM. This review aims to summarize the landscape of therapies that are currently being tested or planned in patients with DM. These therapies have a wide variety of immunological targets, including T cells, B cells, inflammatory signaling pathways, type I interferons, autoantibodies, and other targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Bax
- Department of Dermatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Redwood City, California, USA
| | - Carmel Aghdasi
- Department of Dermatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Redwood City, California, USA
| | - David Fiorentino
- Department of Dermatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Redwood City, California, USA
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Uysal SP, Morren JA. Promising therapies for the treatment of myasthenia gravis. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2024; 25:395-408. [PMID: 38523508 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2024.2332610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune condition targeting the neuromuscular junction, which manifests with neuromuscular symptoms of varying severity and significant morbidity. The mainstay of treatment in MG is mitigation of the immune cascade with steroids and non-steroidal immunosuppressive therapies. The therapeutic strategies in MG are transitioning from broad and indiscriminate immunosuppression to novel agents targeting key steps in MG pathogenesis, including T cell activation, B cell proliferation, complement activation, maintenance of pathogenic antibody production, and proinflammatory cytokine production. AREAS COVERED In this review, an overview of the pathogenesis of MG and traditional MG therapies is presented, followed by a discussion of the novel MG drugs that have been evaluated in phase 3 clinical trials with an emphasis on those which have received regulatory approval. EXPERT OPINION Novel MG therapeutics belonging to the classes of complement inhibitors, neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) inhibitors and B cell depletors, as well as the other emerging MG drugs in the pipeline constitute promising treatment strategies with potentially better efficacy and safety compared to the conventional MG treatments. However, further long-term research is needed in order to optimize the implementation of these new treatment options for the appropriate patient populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanem Pinar Uysal
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - John A Morren
- Neuromuscular Center, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Narayanaswami P, Sanders DB, Thomas L, Thibault D, Blevins J, Desai R, Krueger A, Bibeau K, Liu B, Guptill JT. Comparative effectiveness of azathioprine and mycophenolate mofetil for myasthenia gravis (PROMISE-MG): a prospective cohort study. Lancet Neurol 2024; 23:267-276. [PMID: 38365379 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(24)00028-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disorder of the neuromuscular junction. Treatment typically includes symptomatic oral cholinesterase inhibitors, immunosuppression, and immunomodulation. In addition to corticosteroids, azathioprine and mycophenolate mofetil are the most frequently used immunosuppressants in North America. We aimed to evaluate the comparative effectiveness of these two drugs, and to assess the effect of the dose and duration of treatment. METHODS We did a prospective cohort study at 19 academic centres in Canada and the USA. We included patients (aged ≥18 years) with autoimmune myasthenia gravis, who were never treated with immunosuppressants. Treating clinicians determined the choice of medication, dose, follow-up intervals, and drug monitoring. Outcome measures and adverse events were recorded at each visit. We assessed two co-primary outcomes. The first was the patient-reported Myasthenia Gravis-Quality of Life 15-revised (MGQOL-15r) score, measured as the mean change from treatment initiation to the follow-up visit with the lowest score. A clinically meaningful reduction (CMR) in MGQOL-15r was defined as a 5-point decrease. The second was a composite clinical outcome of disease improvement (Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America Post-Intervention Status Minimal Manifestations or better) and low adverse event burden (defined as grade ≤1 Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events). We also compared these outcomes in patients receiving an adequate dose and duration of azathioprine (≥2 mg/kg per day for at least 12 months) or mycophenolate mofetil (≥2 g per day for at least 8 months) and a lower dose or shorter duration of these agents. We used propensity score weighting with generalised linear regression models. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03490539). FINDINGS Between May 1, 2018, and Aug 31, 2020, 167 patients were enrolled; 85 did not receive azathioprine or mycophenolate mofetil and were excluded. Four were excluded from outcome analyses because they had scores of 0 on an outcome measure at treatment initiation. Of the 78 patients included in analyses, 47 received mycophenolate mofetil (median follow-up 25 months [IQR 13·5-31·5]) and 31 received azathioprine (median follow-up 20 months [IQR 13-30]). The mean change in MG-QOL15r was -10·4 (95% CI -18·9 to -1·3) with mycophenolate mofetil and -6·8 (-17·2 to 3·6) with azathioprine (mean difference -3·3, 95% CI -7·7 to 1·2; p=0·15). 38 (81%) of 47 patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil and 18 (57%) of 31 receiving azathioprine had a CMR in MG-QOL15r (risk difference 24·0%; 95% CI -0·2 to 48·0; p=0·052). The clinical composite outcome was achieved in 22 (47·7%) of 47 patients who received mycophenolate mofetil and nine (28·1%) of 31 who received azathioprine (risk difference 19·6%, 95% CI -4·9 to 44·2; p=0·12). Descriptive analysis did not find a difference in the proportion of patients reaching a CMR in MG-QOL15r between the adequate dose and duration group and the lower dose or shorter duration group. Adverse events occurred in 11 (32%) of 34 patients who received azathioprine and nine (19%) of 48 who received mycophenolate mofetil. The most frequent adverse events were hepatotoxicity with azathioprine (five [15%] of 34) and gastrointestinal disturbances (seven [15%] of 48) with mycophenolate mofetil. There were no study-related deaths. INTERPRETATION More than half of patients treated with azathioprine and mycophenolate mofetil felt their quality of life improved; no difference in clinical outcomes was noted between the two drugs. Adverse events associated with azathioprine were potentially more serious than those with mycophenolate mofetil, although mycophenolate mofetil is teratogenic. Lower than recommended doses of azathioprine might be effective, with reduced dose-dependent adverse events. More comparative effectiveness studies are required to inform treatment choices in myasthenia gravis. FUNDING Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute, Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Donald B Sanders
- Department of Neurology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Laine Thomas
- Duke Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA; Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | | | - Rishi Desai
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA
| | - Andrew Krueger
- Accordant Health Services, CVS Health, High Point, NC, USA
| | - Kathie Bibeau
- Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Bo Liu
- Duke Department of Statistical Science, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jeffrey T Guptill
- Department of Neurology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA; Argenx US, Boston, MA, USA
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Frangiamore R, Rinaldi E, Vanoli F, Andreetta F, Mantegazza R, Antozzi C. Efgartigimod improves triple-negative myasthenia gravis. Neurol Sci 2024; 45:1307-1309. [PMID: 37875596 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-023-07122-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Rita Frangiamore
- Neuroimmunology and Muscle Pathology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Via Giovanni Celoria 11, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Rinaldi
- Neuroimmunology and Muscle Pathology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Via Giovanni Celoria 11, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Fiammetta Vanoli
- Neuroimmunology and Muscle Pathology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Via Giovanni Celoria 11, 20133, Milan, Italy
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Andreetta
- Neuroimmunology and Muscle Pathology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Via Giovanni Celoria 11, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Renato Mantegazza
- Neuroimmunology and Muscle Pathology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Via Giovanni Celoria 11, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlo Antozzi
- Neuroimmunology and Muscle Pathology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Via Giovanni Celoria 11, 20133, Milan, Italy.
- Immunotherapy and Apheresis Departmental Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Via Giovanni Celoria 11, 20133, Milan, Italy.
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Rajabally YA. Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy: Current Therapeutic Approaches and Future Outlooks. Immunotargets Ther 2024; 13:99-110. [PMID: 38435981 PMCID: PMC10906673 DOI: 10.2147/itt.s388151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) is a treatable autoimmune disorder, for which different treatment options are available. Current first-line evidence-based therapies for CIDP include intravenous and subcutaneous immunoglobulins, corticosteroids and plasma exchanges. Despite lack of evidence, cyclophosphamide, rituximab and mycophenolate mofetil are commonly used in circumstances of refractoriness and, more debatably, of perceived overdependence on first-line therapies. Rituximab is currently the object of a randomized controlled trial for CIDP. Based on case series, and although rarely considered, haematopoietic autologous stem cell transplants may be effective in refractory disease, with low mortality and high remission rates. A new therapeutic option has appeared with efgartigimod, a neonatal Fc receptor blocker, recently shown to significantly lower relapse rate versus placebo, after withdrawal from previous immunotherapy. Other neonatal Fc receptor blockers, nipocalimab and batoclimab, are under study. The C1 complement-inhibitor SAR445088, acting in the proximal portion of the classical complement system, is currently the subject of a new study in treatment-responsive, refractory and treatment-naïve subjects. Finally, Bruton Tyrosine Kinase inhibitors, which exert anti-B cell effects, may represent another future research avenue. The widening of the therapeutic armamentarium enhances the need for improved evaluation of treatment effects and reliable biomarkers in CIDP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuf A Rajabally
- Inflammatory Neuropathy Clinic, Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TH, United Kingdom
- Aston Medical School, Aston University, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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Peng Y, Yang H, Chen Q, Jin H, Xue YH, Du MQ, Liu S, Yao SY. An angel or a devil? Current view on the role of CD8 + T cells in the pathogenesis of myasthenia gravis. J Transl Med 2024; 22:183. [PMID: 38378668 PMCID: PMC10877804 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-04965-7] [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: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myasthenia gravis (MG) and the experimental autoimmune MG (EAMG) animal model are characterized by T-cell-induced and B-cell-dominated autoimmune diseases that affect the neuromuscular junction. Several subtypes of CD4+ T cells, including T helper (Th) 17 cells, follicular Th cells, and regulatory T cells (Tregs), contribute to the pathogenesis of MG. However, increasing evidence suggests that CD8+ T cells also play a critical role in the pathogenesis and treatment of MG. MAIN BODY Herein, we review the literature on CD8+ T cells in MG, focusing on their potential effector and regulatory roles, as well as on relevant evidence (peripheral, in situ, cerebrospinal fluid, and under different treatments), T-cell receptor usage, cytokine and chemokine expression, cell marker expression, and Treg, Tc17, CD3+CD8+CD20+ T, and CXCR5+ CD8+ T cells. CONCLUSIONS Further studies on CD8+ T cells in MG are necessary to determine, among others, the real pattern of the Vβ gene usage of autoantigen-specific CD8+ cells in patients with MG, real images of the physiology and function of autoantigen-specific CD8+ cells from MG/EAMG, and the subset of autoantigen-specific CD8+ cells (Tc1, Tc17, and IL-17+IFN-γ+CD8+ T cells). There are many reports of CD20-expressing T (or CD20 + T) and CXCR5+ CD8 T cells on autoimmune diseases, especially on multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. Unfortunately, up to now, there has been no report on these T cells on MG, which might be a good direction for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Peng
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated First Hospital of Hunan Traditional Chinese Medical College, Zhuzhou, 412000, Hunan, China.
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhuzhou, 412000, Hunan, China.
| | - Huan Yang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Quan Chen
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated First Hospital of Hunan Traditional Chinese Medical College, Zhuzhou, 412000, Hunan, China
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhuzhou, 412000, Hunan, China
| | - Hong Jin
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated First Hospital of Hunan Traditional Chinese Medical College, Zhuzhou, 412000, Hunan, China
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhuzhou, 412000, Hunan, China
| | - Ya-Hui Xue
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated First Hospital of Hunan Traditional Chinese Medical College, Zhuzhou, 412000, Hunan, China
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhuzhou, 412000, Hunan, China
| | - Miao-Qiao Du
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated First Hospital of Hunan Traditional Chinese Medical College, Zhuzhou, 412000, Hunan, China
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhuzhou, 412000, Hunan, China
| | - Shu Liu
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated First Hospital of Hunan Traditional Chinese Medical College, Zhuzhou, 412000, Hunan, China
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhuzhou, 412000, Hunan, China
| | - Shun-Yu Yao
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated First Hospital of Hunan Traditional Chinese Medical College, Zhuzhou, 412000, Hunan, China
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhuzhou, 412000, Hunan, China
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Sneed SL, Reese BB, Laureano AF, Ratnapriya S, Fraschilla I, Jeffrey KL, Coffey GP, Conley PB, Anthony RM. An engineered immunomodulatory IgG1 Fc suppresses autoimmune inflammation through pathways shared with i.v. immunoglobulin. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e172980. [PMID: 38357917 PMCID: PMC10866649 DOI: 10.1172/jci172980] [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: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies in the form of high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) exert immunomodulatory activity and are used in this capacity to treat inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Reductionist approaches have revealed that terminal sialylation of the single asparagine-linked (N-linked) glycan at position 297 of the IgG1 Fc bestows antiinflammatory activity, which can be recapitulated by introduction of an F241A point mutation in the IgG1 Fc (FcF241A). Here, we examined the antiinflammatory activity of CHO-K1 cell-produced FcF241A in vivo in models of autoimmune inflammation and found it to be independent of sialylation. Intriguingly, sialylation markedly improved the half-life and bioavailability of FcF241A via impaired interaction with the asialoglycoprotein receptor ASGPR. Further, FcF241A suppressed inflammation through the same molecular pathways as IVIG and sialylated IgG1 Fc and required the C-type lectin SIGN-R1 in vivo. This contrasted with FcAbdeg (efgartigimod), an engineered IgG1 Fc with enhanced neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) binding, which reduced total serum IgG concentrations, independent of SIGN-R1. When coadministered, FcF241A and FcAbdeg exhibited combinatorial antiinflammatory activity. Together, these results demonstrated that the antiinflammatory activity of FcF241A requires SIGN-R1, similarly to that of high-dose IVIG and sialylated IgG1, and can be used in combination with other antiinflammatory therapeutics that rely on divergent pathways, including FcAbdeg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunny L. Sneed
- Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, and
| | - Brian B. Reese
- Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, and
| | - Ana F.S. Laureano
- Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, and
| | - Sneha Ratnapriya
- Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, and
| | - Isabella Fraschilla
- Center for the Study of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kate L. Jeffrey
- Center for the Study of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Robert M. Anthony
- Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, and
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Julien S, Challier I, Malleter M, Jouen F, Drouot L, Boyer O. Immune-Mediated Necrotizing Myopathy (IMNM): A Story of Antibodies. Antibodies (Basel) 2024; 13:12. [PMID: 38390873 PMCID: PMC10885118 DOI: 10.3390/antib13010012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy (IMNM) is a rare and severe disease that corresponds to a specific entity of idiopathic inflammatory myopathy. Patients with IMNM suffer from proximal muscle weakness, and present high levels of creatine kinase and necrotic myofibers. Anti-Signal Recognition Particle (SRP) and anti-3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase autoantibodies (HMGCR) have recently been identified in two thirds of patients with IMNM and are used as a hallmark of the disease. In this review, we provide a detailed description of these antibodies and the tests used to detect them in the serum of patients. Based on in vitro studies and mouse models of IMNM, we discuss the role of autoantibodies in the pathogenesis of the disease. Finally, in the light of the latest knowledge, we conclude with a review of recent therapeutic approaches in IMNM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Julien
- INSERM U1234, PAn'THER FOCIS Center of Excellence, Université de Rouen, F-76000 Rouen, France
| | - Inès Challier
- Department of Pharmacy, CHU Rouen, F-76000 Rouen, France
| | - Marine Malleter
- INSERM U1234, PAn'THER FOCIS Center of Excellence, Université de Rouen, F-76000 Rouen, France
| | - Fabienne Jouen
- INSERM U1234, PAn'THER FOCIS Center of Excellence, Université de Rouen, F-76000 Rouen, France
- Department of Immunology and Biotherapy, CHU Rouen, F-76000 Rouen, France
| | - Laurent Drouot
- INSERM U1234, PAn'THER FOCIS Center of Excellence, Université de Rouen, F-76000 Rouen, France
| | - Olivier Boyer
- INSERM U1234, PAn'THER FOCIS Center of Excellence, Université de Rouen, F-76000 Rouen, France
- Department of Immunology and Biotherapy, CHU Rouen, F-76000 Rouen, France
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Konno S, Fujioka T. Serum immunoglobulin G level reduction is a predictor of short-term improvement in patients with myasthenia gravis undergoing plasmapheresis. Ther Apher Dial 2024; 28:131-140. [PMID: 37731293 DOI: 10.1111/1744-9987.14065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to investigate the serological factors in predicting symptom improvement in myasthenia gravis (MG) patients who underwent plasmapheresis (PP). METHODS The relationship between symptom improvement and change in immunoglobin G (IgG) and acetylcholine receptor antibody (AchR-Ab) levels in 21 MG patients after PP was analyzed. RESULTS Patients were divided into two groups: the favorable (n = 11) or unfavorable (n = 10) response groups around the median MG composite improvement rate (50 [29, 56]%) 2 weeks after a PP course. In all patients, the IgG reduction rate before and after PP was higher in the favorable than the unfavorable response group. In AChR-Ab-positive patients, IgG and AChR-Ab reduction rates were higher in the favorable than the unfavorable response group. CONCLUSION IgG reduction rate is a predictor of symptom improvement in MG patients who underwent PP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shingo Konno
- Department of Neurology, Toho University Ohashi Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshiki Fujioka
- Department of Neurology, Toho University Ohashi Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
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Iorio R. Myasthenia gravis: the changing treatment landscape in the era of molecular therapies. Nat Rev Neurol 2024; 20:84-98. [PMID: 38191918 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-023-00916-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disorder that affects the neuromuscular junction, leading to muscle weakness and fatigue. MG is caused by antibodies against the acetylcholine receptor (AChR), the muscle-specific kinase (MuSK) or other AChR-related proteins that are expressed in the postsynaptic muscle membrane. The standard therapeutic approach for MG has relied on acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, which have shown good efficacy in improving MG-related symptoms in most people with the disease; however, these therapies can carry a considerable burden of long-term adverse effects. Moreover, up to 15% of individuals with MG exhibit limited or no response to these standard therapies. The emergence of molecular therapies, including monoclonal antibodies, B cell-depleting agents and chimeric antigen receptor T cell-based therapies, has the potential to revolutionize the MG treatment landscape. This Review provides a comprehensive overview of the progress achieved in molecular therapies for MG associated with AChR antibodies and MuSK antibodies, elucidating both the challenges and the opportunities these therapies present to the field. The latest developments in MG treatment are described, exploring the potential for personalized medicine approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaele Iorio
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.
- Neurology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
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Ma Y, Nie X, Zhu G, Qi W, Hao L, Guo X. The Efficacy and Safety of Different Targeted Drugs for the Treatment of Generalized Myasthenia Gravis: A Systematic Review and Bayesian Network Meta-analysis. CNS Drugs 2024; 38:93-104. [PMID: 38300476 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-024-01062-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The treatment of generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) has been transformed by the development and approval of new targeted therapies. This analysis aimed to rank and compare the new therapies for gMG using efficacy and safety data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). METHODS We searched PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and ClinicalTrials.gov (up to November 2022) for RCTs of targeted drugs for gMG. We used a Bayesian random-effects network meta-analysis (NMA) model and a Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) model for statistical analysis. The primary outcome was the change in quantitative myasthenia gravis score (QMGS) from baseline, while the secondary outcome was the risk ratio (RR) of adverse events (AEs) during treatment. The surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) was used to rank these targeted drugs, with higher SUCRA values indicating better efficacy or lower likelihood of AEs. RESULTS In total, 13 studies (872 subjects) were included in this analysis evaluating 10 targeted drugs (batoclimab, belimumab, CFZ533, eculizumab, efgartigimod, nipocalimab, rituximab, ravulizumab, rozanolixizumab, and zilucoplan). With regards to the primary outcome, batoclimab [standardized mean difference (SMD), - 1.61; 95% credible interval (CrI), - 2.78, - 0.43] significantly reduced QMGS in patients with gMG when compared with placebo and was ranked as the most efficacious drug. Ranked second and third were eculizumab (SMD, - 0.67; 95% CrI, 1.43, 0.01) and zilucoplan (SMD, - 0.54; 95% CrI, - 1.56, 0.46), respectively. Nipoclimab (SMD, - 0.02; 95% CrI, - 1.04, 1.00) had the worst efficacy and ranked last among all targeted drugs. In our study, except for batoclimab, there was no statistically significant difference in the reduction of patient QMGS for the remaining targeted agents compared with placebo. With regards to the secondary outcomes, only batoclimab (RR, 0.19; 95% CrI, 0, 0.97) led to a significant reduction in the incidence of AEs when compared with the placebo. Belimumab (RR, 0.85; 95% CrI, 0.57, 1.19), CFZ533 (RR, 0.95; 95% CrI, 0.72, 1.25), eculizumab (RR, 0.99; 95% CrI, 0.85, 1.21), and efgartigimod (RR, 0.93; 95% CrI, 0.76, 1.15) also led to a lower incidence of AEs, although these effects were not significantly different from the placebo. CONCLUSIONS Batoclimab had the best efficacy and safety for the treatment of gMG and was ranked first out of the 10 targeted drugs included in this study. Eculizumab was ranked second, and nipocalimab had the worst efficacy. With the exception of batoclimab, the incidence of AEs for the remaining drugs was not statistically significantly different from placebo. We note, however, that wide CrIs reflect the uncertainty in this analysis owing to the small number of available studies and low numbers of study participants; moreover, batoclimab had the widest CrI of all drugs in this analysis. More well-designed studies with long-term follow-up are needed to further evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety of these drugs in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongbo Ma
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Xiangtao Nie
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Geke Zhu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Wenjing Qi
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Lei Hao
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016, China.
| | - Xiuming Guo
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016, China.
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Rogalewski A, Klein N, Friedrich A, Kitsiou A, Schäbitz M, Zuhorn F, Gess B, Berger B, Klingebiel R, Schäbitz WR. Functional long-term outcome following endovascular thrombectomy in patients with acute ischemic stroke. Neurol Res Pract 2024; 6:2. [PMID: 38297374 PMCID: PMC10832147 DOI: 10.1186/s42466-023-00301-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) is the most effective treatment for acute ischemic stroke caused by large vessel occlusion (LVO). Yet, long-term outcome (LTO) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in these patients have rarely been addressed, as opposed to modified Rankin scale (mRS) recordings. We analysed demographic data, treatment and neuroimaging parameters in 694 consecutive stroke patients in a maximum care hospital. In 138 of these patients with respect on receipt of written informed consent, LTO and HRQoL were collected over a period of 48 months after EVT using a standardised telephone survey (median 2.1 years after EVT). Age < 70 years (OR 4.82), lower NIHSS on admission (OR 1.11), NIHSS ≤ 10 after 24 h (OR 11.23) and complete recanalisation (mTICI3) (OR 7.79) were identified as independent predictors of favourable LTO. Occurrence of an infection requiring treatment within the first 72 h was recognised as a negative predictor for good long-term outcome (OR 0.22). Patients with mRS > 2 according to the telephone survey more often had complaints regarding mobility, self-care, and usual activity domains of the HRQoL. Our results underline a sustainable positive effect of effective EVT on the quality of life in LVO stroke. Additionally, predictive parameters of outcome were identified, that may support clinical decision making in LVO stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Rogalewski
- Department of Neurology, Evangelisches Klinikum Bethel, University Hospital OWL of the University Bielefeld, Campus Bielefeld-Bethel, Schildescher Str. 99, 33611, Bielefeld, Germany.
- Department of Neurology, Sankt Elisabeth Hospital Gütersloh, Catholic Hospital Association of East Westfalia (KHO), Gütersloh, Germany.
| | - Nele Klein
- Department of Neurology, Evangelisches Klinikum Bethel, University Hospital OWL of the University Bielefeld, Campus Bielefeld-Bethel, Schildescher Str. 99, 33611, Bielefeld, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Anja Friedrich
- Department of Psychology, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Alkisti Kitsiou
- Department of Neurology, Evangelisches Klinikum Bethel, University Hospital OWL of the University Bielefeld, Campus Bielefeld-Bethel, Schildescher Str. 99, 33611, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Marie Schäbitz
- Department of Neurology, Evangelisches Klinikum Bethel, University Hospital OWL of the University Bielefeld, Campus Bielefeld-Bethel, Schildescher Str. 99, 33611, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Frédéric Zuhorn
- Department of Neurology, Evangelisches Klinikum Bethel, University Hospital OWL of the University Bielefeld, Campus Bielefeld-Bethel, Schildescher Str. 99, 33611, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Burkhard Gess
- Department of Neurology, Evangelisches Klinikum Bethel, University Hospital OWL of the University Bielefeld, Campus Bielefeld-Bethel, Schildescher Str. 99, 33611, Bielefeld, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Björn Berger
- Department of Neuroradiology, Evangelisches Klinikum Bethel EvKB, University Hospital OWL of the University Bielefeld, Campus Bielefeld-Bethel, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Randolf Klingebiel
- Department of Neuroradiology, Evangelisches Klinikum Bethel EvKB, University Hospital OWL of the University Bielefeld, Campus Bielefeld-Bethel, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Wolf-Rüdiger Schäbitz
- Department of Neurology, Evangelisches Klinikum Bethel, University Hospital OWL of the University Bielefeld, Campus Bielefeld-Bethel, Schildescher Str. 99, 33611, Bielefeld, Germany
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Wang S, Wang Q, Jin L, Dong J, Ding J. Efgartigimod is a new option for the treatment of thymoma associated myasthenia gravis: A case report. Int J Surg Case Rep 2024; 115:109241. [PMID: 38219512 PMCID: PMC10826335 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2024.109241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The perioperative efficacy and safety of efgartigimod in patients with thymoma associated myasthenia gravis have not been reported. CASE PRESENTATION We described the case of a 47-year-old woman who presented thymoma associated myasthenia gravis. Primarily, the patient was treated with acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, immunosuppressive medications, and intravenous immunoglobulin. Unfortunately, the control of symptoms was unsatisfactory. The patient was treated with recommended dosage of efgartigimod (10 mg/kg administered as a 1 h intravenous infusion once weekly for 2 weeks) combined with immunosuppressive therapy. Consequently, improved outcomes and rapid clinical remission were observed. Then, modified subxiphoid thoracoscopic thymectomy was performed smoothly and the patient was discharged from hospital after recovery in short time. DISCUSSION Administration of efgartigimod could control symptoms significantly and rapidly. Efgartigimod provides the opportunity of thymectomy in short time. Importantly, there was no any perioperative complication or any adverse event related to efgartigimod. CONCLUSION The improved outcomes of the patient with thymoma associated myasthenia gravis highlight the importance of efgartigimod. Large-scale clinical trials are needed to validate the safety and efficacy of efgartigimod during the perioperative period of thymectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan university, Shanghai 200032, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan university, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Qin Wang
- Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan university, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Neurology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Lirong Jin
- Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan university, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Neurology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jihong Dong
- Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan university, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Neurology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jianyong Ding
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan university, Shanghai 200032, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan university, Shanghai 200032, China.
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