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Hegemann L, Corfield EC, Askelund AD, Allegrini AG, Askeland RB, Ronald A, Ask H, St Pourcain B, Andreassen OA, Hannigan LJ, Havdahl A. Genetic and phenotypic heterogeneity in early neurodevelopmental traits in the Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study. Mol Autism 2024; 15:25. [PMID: 38849897 PMCID: PMC11161964 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-024-00599-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism and different neurodevelopmental conditions frequently co-occur, as do their symptoms at sub-diagnostic threshold levels. Overlapping traits and shared genetic liability are potential explanations. METHODS In the population-based Norwegian Mother, Father, and Child Cohort study (MoBa), we leverage item-level data to explore the phenotypic factor structure and genetic architecture underlying neurodevelopmental traits at age 3 years (N = 41,708-58,630) using maternal reports on 76 items assessing children's motor and language development, social functioning, communication, attention, activity regulation, and flexibility of behaviors and interests. RESULTS We identified 11 latent factors at the phenotypic level. These factors showed associations with diagnoses of autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions. Most shared genetic liabilities with autism, ADHD, and/or schizophrenia. Item-level GWAS revealed trait-specific genetic correlations with autism (items rg range = - 0.27-0.78), ADHD (items rg range = - 0.40-1), and schizophrenia (items rg range = - 0.24-0.34). We find little evidence of common genetic liability across all neurodevelopmental traits but more so for several genetic factors across more specific areas of neurodevelopment, particularly social and communication traits. Some of these factors, such as one capturing prosocial behavior, overlap with factors found in the phenotypic analyses. Other areas, such as motor development, seemed to have more heterogenous etiology, with specific traits showing a less consistent pattern of genetic correlations with each other. CONCLUSIONS These exploratory findings emphasize the etiological complexity of neurodevelopmental traits at this early age. In particular, diverse associations with neurodevelopmental conditions and genetic heterogeneity could inform follow-up work to identify shared and differentiating factors in the early manifestations of neurodevelopmental traits and their relation to autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions. This in turn could have implications for clinical screening tools and programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Hegemann
- PsychGen Centre for Genetic Epidemiology and Mental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway.
- Nic Waals Institute, Lovisenberg Diaconal Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Elizabeth C Corfield
- PsychGen Centre for Genetic Epidemiology and Mental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Nic Waals Institute, Lovisenberg Diaconal Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Adrian Dahl Askelund
- PsychGen Centre for Genetic Epidemiology and Mental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Nic Waals Institute, Lovisenberg Diaconal Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Andrea G Allegrini
- Division of Psychology & Language Sciences, Department of Clinical, Educational & Health Psychology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Ragna Bugge Askeland
- PsychGen Centre for Genetic Epidemiology and Mental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Angelica Ronald
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Helga Ask
- PsychGen Centre for Genetic Epidemiology and Mental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- PROMENTA Research Centre,Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Beate St Pourcain
- Language and Genetics Department, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit (IEU), University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ole A Andreassen
- Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Laurie J Hannigan
- PsychGen Centre for Genetic Epidemiology and Mental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Nic Waals Institute, Lovisenberg Diaconal Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit (IEU), University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Alexandra Havdahl
- PsychGen Centre for Genetic Epidemiology and Mental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Nic Waals Institute, Lovisenberg Diaconal Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- PROMENTA Research Centre,Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Gill J, Jones A, Price K, Goodison E, Tyson P. A mixed-method systematic review of the perspectives of young people, carers and professionals on psychiatric diagnosis in childhood and adolescence. JOURNAL OF CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRIC NURSING 2024; 37:e12459. [PMID: 38522014 DOI: 10.1111/jcap.12459] [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: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
PROBLEM The significance and complexities of a psychiatric diagnosis have been well-documented in existing literature. Despite the reliability and accuracy of such diagnoses, the impact and use of diagnostic labelling on young people remains unclear. METHODS A systematic review was conducted using six databases, identifying 13 studies that explored psychiatric diagnosis experiences in professionals, caregivers, and young people. FINDINGS This review focuses on three main themes related to psychiatric diagnosis in young people. The first theme is diagnostic subjectivity, which explores the accuracy, usefulness, potential harm and alternatives (e.g. psychological formulation) to psychiatric diagnosis in this population. The second theme is the utility of psychiatric diagnosis, which considers whether it helps young people access appropriate support and gain a better understanding of themselves and their presenting issues. The third theme is stigma, which examines the negative experiences and discrimination that young people may face due to their psychiatric diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS There is relatively limited literature which discusses the experience of psychiatric diagnosis in young people, caregivers and professionals. The available literature is difficult to compare due to discrepancies between methodologies and services, and there are several gaps i.e. a limited focus on the experience of young people themselves. Different views and experiences of psychiatric diagnosis among professionals, caregivers, and young people could impact young people's quality of life, access to healthcare, and identity development. The current literature needs to be more comprehensive to draw firm conclusions about young people's experiences with psychiatric diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodie Gill
- School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies, University of South Wales, Treforest Campus, Pontypridd, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Alexis Jones
- School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies, University of South Wales, Treforest Campus, Pontypridd, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Klara Price
- School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies, University of South Wales, Treforest Campus, Pontypridd, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Egan Goodison
- School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies, University of South Wales, Treforest Campus, Pontypridd, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Philip Tyson
- School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies, University of South Wales, Treforest Campus, Pontypridd, Wales, United Kingdom
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Tagliabue L, Cerroni F, Salatiello R, Ricci C, Zanchi S, Monaco E, Nacinovich R, Carotenuto M, Purpura G. Neuro-Psychomotor intervention in children with neurodevelopmental disorders: An exploratory study by using parent-report tools. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES : JOID 2024:17446295241228635. [PMID: 38228568 DOI: 10.1177/17446295241228635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders are a group of complex conditions with onset in the developmental period, that produce impairments of global functioning. For these features, the rehabilitative approaches should be flexible, tailored to the individual characteristics of each patient, and characterized by a standardized multidimensional view, for taking into consideration all the several areas of neurodevelopment. This single-arm clinical trial aims to investigate the features, feasibility, and limitations of Neuro-Psychomotor (NPM) intervention, an Italian naturalistic model for children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders. 30 children (16 with Mixed Specific Developmental Disorder vs 14 with Intellectual Disability) were recruited and their parents filled out two validated tools questionnaires (Developmental Profile-3 and Sensory Processing Measure), before and after 6 months of NPM intervention. Although with some limitations, findings showed that NPM intervention is reliable, flexible, and helpful for children with different neurodevelopmental disorders. Further studies are necessary to investigate its efficacy on a larger sample.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Tagliabue
- Child and Adolescent Health Department, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Italy
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Italy
| | - Francesco Cerroni
- Clinic of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Italy
| | - Raffaella Salatiello
- Clinic of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Italy
| | - Chiara Ricci
- Child and Adolescent Health Department, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Italy
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Italy
| | - Stefania Zanchi
- Child and Adolescent Health Department, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Italy
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Italy
| | - Elide Monaco
- Child and Adolescent Health Department, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Italy
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Italy
| | - Renata Nacinovich
- Child and Adolescent Health Department, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Italy
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Italy
| | - Marco Carotenuto
- Clinic of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Italy
| | - Giulia Purpura
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Italy
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Castagna A, Butti N, Cordolcini L, Innocenti MS, Montirosso R. Severity of developmental delay and parenting behavior in toddlers with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Front Psychol 2024; 14:1306227. [PMID: 38250103 PMCID: PMC10796769 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1306227] [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: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The presence of a neurodevelopmental disability (ND) represents an adverse condition for child's development and parent-child relationship, and it is reasonable to assume that the severity of delay may influence parenting behavior. Previous research, however, did not specifically address this issue. Methods This cross-sectional study compared parental behaviors of mothers of toddlers with moderate/severe or mild/borderline developmental delay and mothers of toddlers with typical development, while considering maternal emotional states. A total of 88 dyads with children aged between 12 and 47 months participated in a 10-min video-recorded interaction then coded with the PICCOLO, a validated observation checklist that assesses four dimensions of parenting: affection, responsiveness, encouragement, and teaching. The mothers also fulfilled two standardized questionnaires assessing parental stress and presence of depressive symptoms. MANOVA and MANCOVA models were used to explore between-group differences in specific parenting dimensions, also considering parental stress. Results Mothers of toddlers with ND were less responsive than the comparison group, while the presence of a moderate/severe developmental delay specifically affected teaching behaviors. No differences emerged for affection and encouragement behaviors. Importantly, although mothers of toddlers with moderate/severe ND reported higher child-related dysfunctional interaction stress, this did not directly affect parenting behaviors. Discussion These findings highlight how the presence of a disability and the severity of developmental delay can affect specific dimensions of parenting (i.e., responsiveness, teaching) and might inform clinical practice and research on early parental interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Castagna
- 0–3 Center for the at-Risk Infant, Scientific Institute, IRCCS Eugenio Medea, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy
| | - Niccolò Butti
- 0–3 Center for the at-Risk Infant, Scientific Institute, IRCCS Eugenio Medea, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy
- PhD Program in Neural and Cognitive Sciences, Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Laura Cordolcini
- 0–3 Center for the at-Risk Infant, Scientific Institute, IRCCS Eugenio Medea, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy
| | - Mark S. Innocenti
- Institute for Disability Research, Policy & Practice, Utah State University, Logan, UT, United States
| | - Rosario Montirosso
- 0–3 Center for the at-Risk Infant, Scientific Institute, IRCCS Eugenio Medea, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy
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Bris ÁG, MacDowell KS, Ulecia-Morón C, Martín-Hernández D, Moreno B, Madrigal JLM, García-Bueno B, Caso JR, Leza JC. Differential regulation of innate immune system in frontal cortex and hippocampus in a "double-hit" neurodevelopmental model in rats. Neurotherapeutics 2024; 21:e00300. [PMID: 38241165 PMCID: PMC10903097 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurot.2023.10.010] [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: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDs) are neuropsychiatric conditions affecting central nervous system development, characterized by cognitive and behavioural alterations. Inflammation has been recently linked to NDs. Animal models are essential for understanding their pathophysiology and identifying therapeutic targets. Double-hit models can reproduce neurodevelopmental and neuroinflammatory impairments. Sixty-seven newborn rats were assigned to four groups: Control, Maternal deprivation (MD, 24-h-deprivation), Isolation (Iso, 5 weeks), and Maternal deprivation + Isolation (MD + Iso, also known as double-hit). Cognitive dysfunction was assessed using behavioural tests. Inflammasome, MAPKs, and TLRs inflammatory elements expression in the frontal cortex (FC) and hippocampus (HP) was analysed through western blot and qRT-PCR. Oxidative/nitrosative (O/N) evaluation and corticosterone levels were measured in plasma samples. Double-hit group was affected in executive and working memory. Most inflammasomes and TLRs inflammatory responses were increased in FC compared to the control group, whilst MAPKs were downregulated. Conversely, hippocampal inflammasome and inflammatory components were reduced after the double-hit exposure, while MAPKs were elevated. Our findings reveal differential regulation of innate immune system components in FC and HP in the double-hit group. Further investigations on MAPKs are necessary to understand their role in regulating HP neuroinflammatory status, potentially linking our MAPKs results to cognitive impairments through their proliferative and anti-inflammatory activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro G Bris
- Departamento de Farmacología y Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid. Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERSAM, ISCIII). Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12) e Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica (IUIN), Spain
| | - Karina S MacDowell
- Departamento de Farmacología y Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid. Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERSAM, ISCIII). Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12) e Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica (IUIN), Spain
| | - Cristina Ulecia-Morón
- Departamento de Farmacología y Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid. Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERSAM, ISCIII). Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12) e Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica (IUIN), Spain
| | - David Martín-Hernández
- Departamento de Farmacología y Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid. Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERSAM, ISCIII). Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12) e Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica (IUIN), Spain
| | - Beatriz Moreno
- Departamento de Farmacología y Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid. Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERSAM, ISCIII). Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12) e Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica (IUIN), Spain
| | - José L M Madrigal
- Departamento de Farmacología y Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid. Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERSAM, ISCIII). Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12) e Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica (IUIN), Spain
| | - Borja García-Bueno
- Departamento de Farmacología y Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid. Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERSAM, ISCIII). Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12) e Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica (IUIN), Spain
| | - Javier R Caso
- Departamento de Farmacología y Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid. Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERSAM, ISCIII). Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12) e Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica (IUIN), Spain
| | - Juan C Leza
- Departamento de Farmacología y Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid. Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERSAM, ISCIII). Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12) e Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica (IUIN), Spain.
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Millevert C, Vidas-Guscic N, Vanherp L, Jonckers E, Verhoye M, Staelens S, Bertoglio D, Weckhuysen S. Resting-State Functional MRI and PET Imaging as Noninvasive Tools to Study (Ab)Normal Neurodevelopment in Humans and Rodents. J Neurosci 2023; 43:8275-8293. [PMID: 38073598 PMCID: PMC10711730 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1043-23.2023] [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: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are a group of complex neurologic and psychiatric disorders. Functional and molecular imaging techniques, such as resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) and positron emission tomography (PET), can be used to measure network activity noninvasively and longitudinally during maturation in both humans and rodent models. Here, we review the current knowledge on rs-fMRI and PET biomarkers in the study of normal and abnormal neurodevelopment, including intellectual disability (ID; with/without epilepsy), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), in humans and rodent models from birth until adulthood, and evaluate the cross-species translational value of the imaging biomarkers. To date, only a few isolated studies have used rs-fMRI or PET to study (abnormal) neurodevelopment in rodents during infancy, the critical period of neurodevelopment. Further work to explore the feasibility of performing functional imaging studies in infant rodent models is essential, as rs-fMRI and PET imaging in transgenic rodent models of NDDs are powerful techniques for studying disease pathogenesis, developing noninvasive preclinical imaging biomarkers of neurodevelopmental dysfunction, and evaluating treatment-response in disease-specific models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charissa Millevert
- Applied & Translational Neurogenomics Group, Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnology (VIB) Center for Molecular Neurology, VIB, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
- µNEURO Research Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Nicholas Vidas-Guscic
- Bio-Imaging Lab, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
- µNEURO Research Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Liesbeth Vanherp
- µNEURO Research Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Elisabeth Jonckers
- Bio-Imaging Lab, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
- µNEURO Research Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Marleen Verhoye
- Bio-Imaging Lab, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
- µNEURO Research Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Steven Staelens
- Molecular Imaging Center Antwerp (MICA), University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
- µNEURO Research Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Daniele Bertoglio
- Bio-Imaging Lab, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
- Molecular Imaging Center Antwerp (MICA), University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
- µNEURO Research Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Sarah Weckhuysen
- Applied & Translational Neurogenomics Group, Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnology (VIB) Center for Molecular Neurology, VIB, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
- µNEURO Research Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
- Translational Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
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Shin S, Lee J, Kim YG, Ha C, Park JH, Kim JW, Lee J, Jang JH. Genetic Diagnosis of Children With Neurodevelopmental Disorders Using Whole Genome Sequencing. Pediatr Neurol 2023; 149:44-52. [PMID: 37776660 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2023.09.003] [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: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) have diverse phenotypes. Their genetic diagnoses are often challenged by difficulties of targeting causative genes due to heterogeneous genetic etiologies. The objective of this study was to perform genetic diagnosis of children with NDDs using whole genome sequencing. METHODS This study included 78 pediatric patients with NDDs and their 152 family members for whole genome sequencing (WGS). All cases except one were families with at least two members. Seventy-five patients had previously undergone other genetic tests besides WGS. Detected variants were classified according to the guidelines of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics. RESULTS Among 78 probands, 26 patients were genetically diagnosed with NDDs through WGS, showing a diagnostic rate of 33.3%. Of them, 22 cases had de novo variants (DNVs) identified through trio analysis. Of these DNVs, half were novel variants. Three structural variants, including a multiexon deletion, a contiguous gene deletion involving 13 Mb, and a retrotransposon insertion, were revealed by WGS. All cases except one had defects in different genes, consistent with the phenotypically diverse nature of NDDs. In addition, three patients were inconclusive, two of them had one likely pathogenic variant in a gene associated with autosomal recessive disease and the other one had no clinical phenotypes associated with the detected DNV. CONCLUSIONS Our experience demonstrates the advantage of WGS in the diagnosis of NDDs, including detection of copy number variations and also the advantage of trio sequencing for interpretation of DNVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunghwan Shin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Genetics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea; Department of Laboratory Medicine, Inje University Ilsan Paik Hospital, Goyang, Korea
| | - Jiwon Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young-Gon Kim
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Genetics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Changhee Ha
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Genetics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jong-Ho Park
- Clinical Genomics Center, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jong-Won Kim
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Genetics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jeehun Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ja-Hyun Jang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Genetics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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8
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Valaparambil KA, Fasaludeen A, Priya L, Menon RN, Menon R, Sundaram S. Clinical Utility of Proband Only Clinical Exome Sequencing in Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Indian J Pediatr 2023:10.1007/s12098-023-04916-y. [PMID: 37943464 DOI: 10.1007/s12098-023-04916-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Chromosomal microarray is recommended as the first line of investigation in neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). However, advances in next-generation sequencing have unraveled more than 900 genes associated with NDDs, thus improving the genetic diagnosis. Therefore, this study was conducted to explore the utility of clinical exome sequencing (CES) in NDDs from a tertiary care centre in India. A retrospective observational analysis of 78 children with NDDs for whom CES was performed between 2017 and 2021 was conducted. The American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) criteria were used to classify the variants. The mean age was 5.8 ± 3.6 y, and 42 (53%) were male. Pathogenic, likely pathogenic, and variants of uncertain significance (VUS) were observed in 22 (28.2%), 10 (12.8%), and 26 (33.3%) patients, respectively, which included five copy number variants. The diagnostic yield for pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants in NDDs by CES was 41%, which was reasonably high.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karthika Ajit Valaparambil
- Department of Neurology, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695011, Kerala, India
| | - Alfiya Fasaludeen
- Department of Neurology, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695011, Kerala, India
| | - Lakshmi Priya
- Department of Neurology, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695011, Kerala, India
| | - Ramshekhar N Menon
- Pediatric Neurology and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Department of Neurology, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695011, Kerala, India
| | - Ramesh Menon
- Department of Bioinformatics, MedGenome Labs, Bangalore, India
| | - Soumya Sundaram
- Pediatric Neurology and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Department of Neurology, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695011, Kerala, India.
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Fitneva SA, Corbett BA, Prasad AN. Psychosocial correlates of neurodevelopmental disabilities in 2- to 3-year-olds. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 146:109370. [PMID: 37556967 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109370] [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: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Canada's National Longitudinal Study of Children and Youth survey data provide insights into chronic health conditions in children. Children with neurodevelopmental disabilities (NDD) are at increased risk for adverse behavioral outcomes. METHODS We examined data from 3 cycles of Canada's National Longitudinal Survey of Children and Youth for the presence of epilepsy (Epi), cerebral palsy (CP), and intellectual disability (ID) in 2- to 3-year-olds. We then examined the relationship of NDD to composite measures of behavior: hyperactivity-inattention (HI), prosocial behaviors (PS), emotional disorder-anxiety (EA), physical aggression oppositional behavior (AO), and separation anxiety (SA). RESULTS There were 15 children with Epi, 25 with CP and 28 with ID in a sample of 10,879, which represented a population of 756,848 2- to 3-year-old Canadian children. Comparison of mean scores of the NDD groups and controls (Welch's ANOVA), indicated statistically significant differences in HI, PS, EA, and SA at the p < 0.001 level. Post hoc analysis showed significant intergroup differences. Children with epilepsy did not differ from controls on any of the behavioral measures. However, in comparison to controls, children with intellectual disability had higher EA and SA scores and lower PS scores, and those with cerebral palsy had lower PS scores. CONCLUSIONS Children with NDD show differences in behavioral outcomes at a very early age when compared with controls. Screening for these behaviors and early intervention programs may help avoid longer term psychiatric comorbidity associated with these disabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bradley A Corbett
- Richard Ivey School of Business, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Asuri N Prasad
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Dept. of Pediatrics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada.
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10
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Choo AL, Smith S, Pratt A, Leon Guerrero S. Editorial: Multilingualism and neurodevelopmental disorders. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1267023. [PMID: 37655193 PMCID: PMC10466220 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1267023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ai Leen Choo
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Sara Smith
- Department of Language, Literacy, Ed.D., Exceptional Education, and Physical Education (LLEEP), University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Amy Pratt
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Sibylla Leon Guerrero
- Department of Education, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
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11
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Dickerson AS, Frndak S, DeSantiago M, Mohan A, Smith GS. Environmental Exposure Disparities and Neurodevelopmental Risk: a Review. Curr Environ Health Rep 2023; 10:73-83. [PMID: 37002432 PMCID: PMC11108231 DOI: 10.1007/s40572-023-00396-6] [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] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Neurotoxicant exposures are of particular concern in historically marginalized communities. Often a consequence of structural racism, low-income minoritized populations experience a disproportionate burden of hazardous exposures through proximity to industrial facilities, high traffic roads, and suboptimal housing. Here, we summarize reports on exposures and neurodevelopment focused on differences by education, income, race/ethnicity, or immigration status from 2015 to 2022, discuss the importance of such investigations in overburdened communities, and recommend areas for future research. RECENT FINDINGS We found 20 studies that investigated exposure disparities and neurodevelopment in children. Most were conducted in the USA, and many focused on air pollution, followed by metal exposures and water contamination. Although several studies showed differences in exposure-outcome associations by income and education, many examining differences by race/ethnicity did not report notable disparities between groups. However, measures of individual race and ethnicity are not reliable measures of discrimination experienced as a consequence of structural racism. Our review supports scientific evidence that the reduction of individual and widespread municipal exposures will improve child development and overall public health. Identified research gaps include the use of better indicators of economic status and structural racism, evaluations of effect modification and attributable fraction of outcomes by these factors, and considerations of multidimensional neighborhood factors that could be protective against environmental insults. Considering that vulnerable populations have disparities in access to and quality of care, greater burden of exposure, and fewer resources to incur associated expenses, such populations should be prioritized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisha S Dickerson
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
- Wendy Klag Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
- Hopkins Center for Health Disparities Solution, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Seth Frndak
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Melissa DeSantiago
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Ankita Mohan
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Genee S Smith
- Hopkins Center for Health Disparities Solution, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
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12
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Waite D, Burd L. Common developmental trajectories and clinical identification of children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders: A synthesis of the literature. ADVANCES IN DRUG AND ALCOHOL RESEARCH 2023; 3:10877. [PMID: 38389815 PMCID: PMC10880764 DOI: 10.3389/adar.2023.10877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
At an estimated prevalence of up to five percent in the general population, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) are the most common neurodevelopmental disorder, at least if not more prevalent than autism (2.3%). Despite this prevalence in the general population, pediatricians and other developmental specialists have thus far failed to diagnose this disability, leaving most children and adults without the supports provided for most other disabilities. This paper will provide a review of clinically relevant literature that describes the developmental challenges of children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders and addresses similarities to and differences of FASD from other neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. A subsequent discussion will describe how a diagnosis of an FASD can establish a basis for understanding the developmental and behavioral challenges of children with an FASD, and how specific interventions can help support child development and maximize adult independence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas Waite
- Developmental Pediatrics, Bronxcare Health System, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Larry Burd
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, United States
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13
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Nitte CM, Dobelke F, König J, Konrad M, Becker K, Kamp-Becker I, Weber S. Review of neurodevelopmental disorders in patients with HNF1B gene variations. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1149875. [PMID: 36969268 PMCID: PMC10034397 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1149875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023] Open
Abstract
This review investigates the association between neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD) and variations of the gene HNF1B. Heterozygous intragenetic mutations or heterozygous gene deletions (17q12 microdeletion syndrome) of HNF1B are the cause of a multi-system developmental disorder, termed renal cysts and diabetes syndrome (RCAD). Several studies suggest that in general, patients with genetic variation of HNF1B have an elevated risk for additional neurodevelopmental disorders, especially autism spectrum disorder (ASD) but a comprehensive assessment is yet missing. This review provides an overview including all available studies of patients with HNF1B mutation or deletion with comorbid NDD with respect to the prevalence of NDDs and in how they differ between patients with an intragenic mutation or 17q12 microdeletion. A total of 31 studies was identified, comprising 695 patients with variations in HNF1B, (17q12 microdeletion N = 416, mutation N = 279). Main results include that NDDs are present in both groups (17q12 microdeletion 25.2% vs. mutation 6.8%, respectively) but that patients with 17q12 microdeletions presented more frequently with any NDDs and especially with learning difficulties compared to patients with a mutation of HNF1B. The observed prevalence of NDDs in patients with HNF1B variations seems to be higher than in the general population, but the validity of the estimated prevalence must be deemed insufficient. This review shows that systematical research of NDDs in patients with HNF1B mutations or deletions is lacking. Further studies regarding neuropsychological characteristics of both groups are needed. NDDs might be a concomitant of HFN1B-related disease and should be considered in clinical routine and scientific reports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Marie Nitte
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
- Correspondence: Clara Nittel
| | - Frederike Dobelke
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Jens König
- Department of General Pediatrics, University Children’s Hospital, Münster, Germany
| | - Martin Konrad
- Department of General Pediatrics, University Children’s Hospital, Münster, Germany
| | - Katja Becker
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Inge Kamp-Becker
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Weber
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
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14
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Bölte S, Neufeld J, Marschik PB, Williams ZJ, Gallagher L, Lai MC. Sex and gender in neurodevelopmental conditions. Nat Rev Neurol 2023; 19:136-159. [PMID: 36747038 PMCID: PMC10154737 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-023-00774-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Health-related conditions often differ qualitatively or quantitatively between individuals of different birth-assigned sexes and gender identities, and/or with different gendered experiences, requiring tailored care. Studying the moderating and mediating effects of sex-related and gender-related factors on impairment, disability, wellbeing and health is of paramount importance especially for neurodivergent individuals, who are diagnosed with neurodevelopmental conditions with uneven sex/gender distributions. Researchers have become aware of the myriad influences that sex-related and gender-related variables have on the manifestations of neurodevelopmental conditions, and contemporary work has begun to investigate the mechanisms through which these effects are mediated. Here we describe topical concepts of sex and gender science, summarize current knowledge, and discuss research and clinical challenges related to autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and other neurodevelopmental conditions. We consider sex and gender in the context of epidemiology, behavioural phenotypes, neurobiology, genetics, endocrinology and neighbouring disciplines. The available evidence supports the view that sex and gender are important contributors to the biological and behavioural variability in neurodevelopmental conditions. Methodological caveats such as frequent conflation of sex and gender constructs, inappropriate measurement of these constructs and under-representation of specific demographic groups (for example, female and gender minority individuals and people with intellectual disabilities) limit the translational potential of research so far. Future research and clinical implementation should integrate sex and gender into next-generation diagnostics, mechanistic investigations and support practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sven Bölte
- Center of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (KIND), Centre for Psychiatry Research; Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Curtin Autism Research Group, Curtin School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia.
| | - Janina Neufeld
- Center of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (KIND), Centre for Psychiatry Research; Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Swedish Collegium for Advanced Study (SCAS), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Peter B Marschik
- Center of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (KIND), Centre for Psychiatry Research; Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Göttingen and Leibniz ScienceCampus Primate Cognition, Göttingen, Germany
- iDN - interdisciplinary Developmental Neuroscience, Division of Phoniatrics, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Zachary J Williams
- Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Frist Center for Autism and Innovation, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Louise Gallagher
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Child and Youth Mental Health Collaborative at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, and Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Meng-Chuan Lai
- Child and Youth Mental Health Collaborative at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, and Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.
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15
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Mintz Hemed N, Melosh NA. An integrated perspective for the diagnosis and therapy of neurodevelopmental disorders - From an engineering point of view. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 194:114723. [PMID: 36746077 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are complex conditions with largely unknown pathophysiology. While many NDD symptoms are familiar, the cause of these disorders remains unclear and may involve a combination of genetic, biological, psychosocial, and environmental risk factors. Current diagnosis relies heavily on behaviorally defined criteria, which may be biased by the clinical team's professional and cultural expectations, thus a push for new biological-based biomarkers for NDDs diagnosis is underway. Emerging new research technologies offer an unprecedented view into the electrical, chemical, and physiological activity in the brain and with further development in humans may provide clinically relevant diagnoses. These could also be extended to new treatment options, which can start to address the underlying physiological issues. When combined with current speech, language, occupational therapy, and pharmacological treatment these could greatly improve patient outcomes. The current review will discuss the latest technologies that are being used or may be used for NDDs diagnosis and treatment. The aim is to provide an inspiring and forward-looking view for future research in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nofar Mintz Hemed
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
| | - Nicholas A Melosh
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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16
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Wu D, Zhu J, You L, Wang J, Zhang S, Liu Z, Xu Q, Yuan X, Yang L, Wang W, Tong M, Hong Q, Chi X. NRXN1 depletion in the medial prefrontal cortex induces anxiety-like behaviors and abnormal social phenotypes along with impaired neurite outgrowth in rat. J Neurodev Disord 2023; 15:6. [PMID: 36737720 PMCID: PMC9896742 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-022-09471-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are a group of disorders induced by abnormal brain developmental processes. The prefrontal cortex (PFC) plays an essential role in executive function, and its role in NDDs has been reported. NDDs are associated with high-risk gene mutations and share partially overlapping genetic abnormalities. METHODS Neurexins (NRXNs) are related to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). NRXN1, an essential susceptibility gene for NDDs, has been reported to be associated with NDDs. However, little is known about its key role in NDDs. RESULTS NRXN1 downregulation in the medial PFC induced anxiety-like behaviors and abnormal social phenotypes with impaired neurite outgrowth in Sh-NRXN1 in prefrontal neurons. Moreover, tandem mass tag (TMT)-based proteomic analysis of rat brain samples showed that NRXN1 downregulation led to significant proteome alterations, including pathways related to the extracellular matrix, cell membrane, and morphologic change. Furthermore, full-automatic immunoblotting analysis verified the differently expressed proteins related to cell morphology and membrane structure. CONCLUSIONS Our results confirmed the association of NRXN1 with abnormal behaviors in NDDs and provided richer insights into specific prefrontal knockdown in adolescence, potentially expanding the NRXN1 interactome and contributing to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Wu
- Department of Child Healthcare, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China.,The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiansheng Zhu
- Department of Child Healthcare, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Lianghui You
- Department of Child Healthcare, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Jingyu Wang
- Department of Child Healthcare, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Sufen Zhang
- Department of Child Healthcare, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhonghui Liu
- Department of Child Healthcare, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Qu Xu
- Department of Child Healthcare, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaojie Yuan
- Department of Child Healthcare, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Lei Yang
- Department of Child Healthcare, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Wang
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Meiling Tong
- Department of Child Healthcare, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Qin Hong
- Department of Child Healthcare, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China.
| | - Xia Chi
- Department of Child Healthcare, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China.
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17
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Strazzer S, Sacchi D, Rigamonti R, Miccoli A, Bonino M, Giancola S, Germiniasi C, Montirosso R. Prelinguistic intersubjective and socio-communicative skills in infants with neurodevelopmental disabilities aged 0-36 months: A new assessment and parent support tool. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2023; 4:1088853. [PMID: 36817718 PMCID: PMC9932195 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2023.1088853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Background Although children with neurodevelopmental disability (NDD) present with several deficits, they partially share developmental impairments in prelinguistic intersubjective and socio-communicative skills, which are not easily assessed by conventional tests during the first years of life. Aim The current paper presents a new procedure to assess the prelinguistic intersubjective and socio-communicative skills of NDD children aged 0-36 months. A specific observation form template, called the Observation of Prelinguistic Intersubjective and Socio-Communicative Skills (OPISCoS) form, has been designed to systematically detect infant skills during daily routines (e.g., mealtime, playtime, desk activities). The OPISCoS form helps speech therapists to provide parents support to better perceive and understand early communicative signals from their children, avoiding the risk of excessive or reduced social stimulation. Methods The OPISCoS form is composed of three sections, namely, "Pragmatics and Communication," "Decoding," and "Expression," which are useful to delineate the communication abilities of children with NDD and are not tapped by traditional batteries. Vignettes from clinical practice illustrate and provide exemplifications for using the OPISCoS form with NDD infants and their parents. Results The OPISCoS form was reported for two children and showed potential in detecting disrupted communicative behaviors and planning specific early interventions. Further, we observed an improvement not only in children's communicative abilities improve but also in their interactions with parents. From a clinical point of view, the OPISCoS form (1) offers an observational perspective of prelinguistic intersubjective and socio-communicative skills in infants with NDD and (2) may be useful to practitioners to enhance parents' sensitivity to their infants' communicative behavior. Conclusion The OPISCoS form was developed in clinical practice and is based on a very preliminary description of a new observational procedure as integration for the assessment of NDD children. The OPISCoS form appears to be a useful tool for the clinical assessment of prelinguistic intersubjective and socio-communicative skills in NDD infants as well as for promoting the quality of early parenting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Strazzer
- Neurophysiatric Department, Scientific Institute IRCCS “Eugenio Medea”, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy
| | - Daniela Sacchi
- Neurophysiatric Department, Scientific Institute IRCCS “Eugenio Medea”, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy
| | - Roberta Rigamonti
- Neurophysiatric Department, Scientific Institute IRCCS “Eugenio Medea”, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy
| | - Annalisa Miccoli
- Neurophysiatric Department, Scientific Institute IRCCS “Eugenio Medea”, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy
| | - Margherita Bonino
- Neurophysiatric Department, Scientific Institute IRCCS “Eugenio Medea”, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy
| | - Serena Giancola
- 0-3 Center for the at-Risk Infant, Scientific Institute IRCCS “Eugenio Medea”, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy
| | - Chiara Germiniasi
- Neurophysiatric Department, Scientific Institute IRCCS “Eugenio Medea”, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy
| | - Rosario Montirosso
- 0-3 Center for the at-Risk Infant, Scientific Institute IRCCS “Eugenio Medea”, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy
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18
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Roth C, Kilpinen H, Kurian MA, Barral S. Histone lysine methyltransferase-related neurodevelopmental disorders: current knowledge and saRNA future therapies. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1090046. [PMID: 36923252 PMCID: PMC10009263 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1090046] [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: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders encompass a group of debilitating diseases presenting with motor and cognitive dysfunction, with variable age of onset and disease severity. Advances in genetic diagnostic tools have facilitated the identification of several monogenic chromatin remodeling diseases that cause Neurodevelopmental disorders. Chromatin remodelers play a key role in the neuro-epigenetic landscape and regulation of brain development; it is therefore not surprising that mutations, leading to loss of protein function, result in aberrant neurodevelopment. Heterozygous, usually de novo mutations in histone lysine methyltransferases have been described in patients leading to haploinsufficiency, dysregulated protein levels and impaired protein function. Studies in animal models and patient-derived cell lines, have highlighted the role of histone lysine methyltransferases in the regulation of cell self-renewal, cell fate specification and apoptosis. To date, in depth studies of histone lysine methyltransferases in oncology have provided strong evidence of histone lysine methyltransferase dysregulation as a determinant of cancer progression and drug resistance. As a result, histone lysine methyltransferases have become an important therapeutic target for the treatment of different cancer forms. Despite recent advances, we still lack knowledge about the role of histone lysine methyltransferases in neuronal development. This has hampered both the study and development of precision therapies for histone lysine methyltransferases-related Neurodevelopmental disorders. In this review, we will discuss the current knowledge of the role of histone lysine methyltransferases in neuronal development and disease progression. We will also discuss how RNA-based technologies using small-activating RNAs could potentially provide a novel therapeutic approach for the future treatment of histone lysine methyltransferase haploinsufficiency in these Neurodevelopmental disorders, and how they could be first tested in state-of-the-art patient-derived neuronal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Roth
- Molecular Neurosciences, Developmental Neurosciences Programme, Zayed Centre for Research into Rare Disease in Children, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Helena Kilpinen
- Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Manju A Kurian
- Molecular Neurosciences, Developmental Neurosciences Programme, Zayed Centre for Research into Rare Disease in Children, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Neurology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom
| | - Serena Barral
- Molecular Neurosciences, Developmental Neurosciences Programme, Zayed Centre for Research into Rare Disease in Children, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Rafiei Milajerdi H, Ordooiazar F, Dewey D. [Formula: see text]Is active video gaming associated with improvements in social behaviors in children with neurodevelopmental disorders: a systematic review. Child Neuropsychol 2023; 29:1-27. [PMID: 35236234 DOI: 10.1080/09297049.2022.2046721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Active video gaming (AVG) is a way that children with neurodevelopmental disorders can participate in social play and could be associated with improvements in social behaviors. However, limited research has investigated if AVG is associated with improvements in social behaviors in children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders. A systematic literature search was conducted in Medline, Embase, Psycinfo, Cinahl, and Eric, Web of Science, and Scopus. Three main concepts were searched: exergaming, neurodevelopmental disorders, and social behaviors. Keywords and subject headings were used for each concept. 3080 articles were identified in the initial search in 2019; in January 2021, 167 additional articles were identified. Of these, 8 studies with 242 children with autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, or developmental coordination disorder were included in this review. Six studies reported that participation in AVG was associated with improved social functioning, social interaction, emotional well-being, and social/emotional skills in children with ASD, CP, and DCD. In contrast, two studies that included children diagnosed with ASD did not find any association between AVG participation and social behaviors. The findings of this systematic review suggest that participation in an AVG intervention may be associated with improved social behaviors in children and adolescents with ASD, CP, and DCD. However, due to the limited number of studies included, this finding must be interpreted with caution. Future research is needed that examines the treatment fidelity of AVG in improving social behavior skills in children with neurodevelopmental disorders and the generalizability of these skills to real-life social situations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Deborah Dewey
- Departments of Paediatrics and Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Owerko Centre, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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20
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Sun H, Wu M, Wang M, Zhang X, Zhu J. The regulatory role of endoplasmic reticulum chaperone proteins in neurodevelopment. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:1032607. [DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1032607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is the largest tubular reticular organelle spanning the cell. As the main site of protein synthesis, Ca2+ homeostasis maintenance and lipid metabolism, the ER plays a variety of essential roles in eukaryotic cells, with ER molecular chaperones participate in all these processes. In recent years, it has been reported that the abnormal expression of ER chaperones often leads to a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), including abnormal neuronal migration, neuronal morphogenesis, and synaptic function. Neuronal development is a complex and precisely regulated process. Currently, the mechanism by which neural development is regulated at the ER level remains under investigation. Therefore, in this work, we reviewed the recent advances in the roles of ER chaperones in neural development and developmental disorders caused by the deficiency of these molecular chaperones.
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Cubillos-Bravo R, Avello-Sáez D. Tecnologías de apoyo a la rehabilitación e inclusión. Recomendaciones para el abordaje de niñas, niños y adolescentes con trastornos del neurodesarrollo. REVISTA MÉDICA CLÍNICA LAS CONDES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rmclc.2022.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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22
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Hernández Expósito S, Acosta Rodríguez V, Ramírez-Santana GM. Overlapping in memory profiles in Spanish children with autism spectrum disorders, developmental language disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. APPLIED NEUROPSYCHOLOGY. CHILD 2022; 11:863-872. [PMID: 34806920 DOI: 10.1080/21622965.2021.2002694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders do not have biological markers that allow for their identification. This means that in most cases, diagnosis is based on behavior. This approach implies that difficulties will exist in establishing the diagnostic boundaries of the different nosological entities, and it argues that neurodevelopmental disorders probably share neuropsychological deficits. Our main objective was to study whether neurodevelopmental disorders share a common endophenotype. We carried out a study of memory in children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), Developmental Language Disorders (DLD), and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). For this purpose, we administered an extensive neuropsychological battery to evaluate memory to 24(ASD), 25(DLD), and 25(ADHD) children. The results obtained by these three clinical groups were contrasted with those obtained by a group of 25 children of typical development (TD). TD group performed better in all memory tasks, except the recognition task than the clinical groups, and the clinical groups showed slight differences among themselves in their performance in memory tasks. These results show that memory deficits could represent a common endophenotype at least in these three neurodevelopmental disorders and emphasize the need to intervene in memory disorders in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Hernández Expósito
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Psychobiology and Methodology, School of Psychology & Speech Therapy, University of La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Víctor Acosta Rodríguez
- Department of Didactic and Educational Research, School of Psychology & Speech Therapy, University of La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Gustavo M Ramírez-Santana
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Psychobiology and Methodology, School of Psychology & Speech Therapy, University of La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
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23
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de Oliveira MAL, Rojas VCT, de Sá JC, de Novais CO, Silva MS, de Almeida Paula HA, Kirsten TB, Bernardi MM, Pinheiro LC, Giusti-Paiva A, Vilela FC. Perinatal exposure to glyphosate-based herbicides induced neurodevelopmental behaviors impairments and increased oxidative stress in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus in offspring. Int J Dev Neurosci 2022; 82:528-538. [PMID: 35750327 DOI: 10.1002/jdn.10207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Glyphosate is the organophosphate pesticide most widely used in the world. Recent studies correlate exposure to glyphosate and the emergence of neurodevelopmental disorders. Therefore, it was objective to propose a rat model of perinatal exposure to glyphosate-based herbicides (GBH) to study associated neurodevelopmental disorders. Behavioral aspects and brain pathways were assessed in the prepubertal phase. For this, maternal treatment occurred throughout the entire gestation period (from GD0) until weaning on postnatal day 22 (PND 22). Control group received oral gavage with 5 mL/kg of saline per day and GBH group received oral gavage with 50 mg/kg of GBH per day (n = 10 per group). Maternal behavior was evaluated in PND 2-6. Offspring were evaluated for quantification of ultrasonic vocalizations (PND 5); homing behavior test (PND 13); and hole board, social play behavior, open field, and object recognition tests (PND 28-32). Prefrontal cortex and hippocampus of the offspring were processed to evaluate oxidative stress. Maternal exposure to GBH impaired early social communication, olfactory discrimination, social play behavior, and the exploration of objects, in addition to increasing repetitive and stereotyped movements. GBH also increased oxidative stress. Therefore, perinatal GBH exposure induced behavioral and oxidative stress impairments in rats associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. The manifestations found in the offspring are in accordance with symptoms of autism spectrum disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A L de Oliveira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências Aplicadas à Saúde, Universidade Federal de Alfenas-Unifal-MG, Alfenas, Brazil
| | - Viviana C T Rojas
- Programa Multicêntrico de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas-Unifal-MG, Alfenas, Brazil
| | - Josiane C de Sá
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências Aplicadas à Saúde, Universidade Federal de Alfenas-Unifal-MG, Alfenas, Brazil
| | - Cíntia O de Novais
- Programa Multicêntrico de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas-Unifal-MG, Alfenas, Brazil
| | - Mariana S Silva
- Faculdade de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Alfenas-Unifal-MG, Alfenas, Brazil
| | | | - Thiago B Kirsten
- Psychoneuroimmunology Laboratory, Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Paulista University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Martha Bernardi
- Psychoneuroimmunology Laboratory, Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Paulista University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lucas Cézar Pinheiro
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências Aplicadas à Saúde, Universidade Federal de Alfenas-Unifal-MG, Alfenas, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Giusti-Paiva
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências Aplicadas à Saúde, Universidade Federal de Alfenas-Unifal-MG, Alfenas, Brazil
- Programa Multicêntrico de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas-Unifal-MG, Alfenas, Brazil
| | - Fabiana C Vilela
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências Aplicadas à Saúde, Universidade Federal de Alfenas-Unifal-MG, Alfenas, Brazil
- Psychoneuroimmunology Laboratory, Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Paulista University, São Paulo, Brazil
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Belyaeva EO, Lebedev IN. Interloci CNV Interactions in Variability of the Phenotypes of Neurodevelopmental Disorders. RUSS J GENET+ 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s1022795422100027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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25
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Tanaka M, Spekker E, Szabó Á, Polyák H, Vécsei L. Modelling the neurodevelopmental pathogenesis in neuropsychiatric disorders. Bioactive kynurenines and their analogues as neuroprotective agents-in celebration of 80th birthday of Professor Peter Riederer. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2022; 129:627-642. [PMID: 35624406 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-022-02513-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Following introduction of the monoamine oxidase type B inhibitor selegiline for the treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD), discovery of the action mechanism of Alzheimer's disease-modifying agent memantine, the role of iron in PD, and the loss of electron transport chain complex I in PD, and development of the concept of clinical neuroprotection, Peter Riederer launched one of the most challenging research project neurodevelopmental aspects of neuropsychiatric disorders. The neurodevelopmental theory holds that a disruption of normal brain development in utero or during early life underlies the subsequent emergence of neuropsychiatric symptoms during later life. Indeed, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition and the International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision categorize autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). More and more evidence, especially from preclinical studies, is revealing that neurodevelopmental pathology is not limited to the diagnostic class above, but also contributes to the development of other psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder as well as neurodegenerative diseases such as PD and Huntington's disease. Preclinical animal research is taking a lead in understanding the pathomechanisms of NDDs, searching for novel targets, and developing new neuroprotective agents against NDDs. This narrative review discusses emerging evidence of the neurodevelopmental etiology of neuropsychiatric disorders, recent advances in modelling neurodevelopmental pathogenesis, potential strategies of clinical neuroprotection using novel kynurenine metabolites and analogues, and future research direction for NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaru Tanaka
- MTA-SZTE Neuroscience Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, University of Szeged (MTA-SZTE), Semmelweis u. 6, 6725, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Eleonóra Spekker
- MTA-SZTE Neuroscience Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, University of Szeged (MTA-SZTE), Semmelweis u. 6, 6725, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Ágnes Szabó
- Department of Neurology, Albert Szent-György Medical School, University of Szeged, Semmelweis u. 6, 6725, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Helga Polyák
- Department of Neurology, Albert Szent-György Medical School, University of Szeged, Semmelweis u. 6, 6725, Szeged, Hungary
| | - László Vécsei
- MTA-SZTE Neuroscience Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, University of Szeged (MTA-SZTE), Semmelweis u. 6, 6725, Szeged, Hungary. .,Department of Neurology, Albert Szent-György Medical School, University of Szeged, Semmelweis u. 6, 6725, Szeged, Hungary.
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26
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Kaur M, Costello J, Willis E, Kelm K, Reformat MZ, Bolduc FV. Deciphering Diversity of Mental Models in Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Knowledge Graph Representation of Public Data Using Natural Language Processing (Preprint). J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e39888. [PMID: 35930346 PMCID: PMC9391978 DOI: 10.2196/39888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Understanding how individuals think about a topic, known as the mental model, can significantly improve communication, especially in the medical domain where emotions and implications are high. Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) represent a group of diagnoses, affecting up to 18% of the global population, involving differences in the development of cognitive or social functions. In this study, we focus on 2 NDDs, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which involve multiple symptoms and interventions requiring interactions between 2 important stakeholders: parents and health professionals. There is a gap in our understanding of differences between mental models for each stakeholder, making communication between stakeholders more difficult than it could be. Objective We aim to build knowledge graphs (KGs) from web-based information relevant to each stakeholder as proxies of mental models. These KGs will accelerate the identification of shared and divergent concerns between stakeholders. The developed KGs can help improve knowledge mobilization, communication, and care for individuals with ADHD and ASD. Methods We created 2 data sets by collecting the posts from web-based forums and PubMed abstracts related to ADHD and ASD. We utilized the Unified Medical Language System (UMLS) to detect biomedical concepts and applied Positive Pointwise Mutual Information followed by truncated Singular Value Decomposition to obtain corpus-based concept embeddings for each data set. Each data set is represented as a KG using a property graph model. Semantic relatedness between concepts is calculated to rank the relation strength of concepts and stored in the KG as relation weights. UMLS disorder-relevant semantic types are used to provide additional categorical information about each concept’s domain. Results The developed KGs contain concepts from both data sets, with node sizes representing the co-occurrence frequency of concepts and edge sizes representing relevance between concepts. ADHD- and ASD-related concepts from different semantic types shows diverse areas of concerns and complex needs of the conditions. KG identifies converging and diverging concepts between health professionals literature (PubMed) and parental concerns (web-based forums), which may correspond to the differences between mental models for each stakeholder. Conclusions We show for the first time that generating KGs from web-based data can capture the complex needs of families dealing with ADHD or ASD. Moreover, we showed points of convergence between families and health professionals’ KGs. Natural language processing–based KG provides access to a large sample size, which is often a limiting factor for traditional in-person mental model mapping. Our work offers a high throughput access to mental model maps, which could be used for further in-person validation, knowledge mobilization projects, and basis for communication about potential blind spots from stakeholders in interactions about NDDs. Future research will be needed to identify how concepts could interact together differently for each stakeholder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manpreet Kaur
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Jeremy Costello
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Elyse Willis
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Karen Kelm
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Marek Z Reformat
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Information Technology Institute, University of Social Sciences, Łódź, Poland
| | - Francois V Bolduc
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Women and Children Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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27
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Shankar SP, Grimsrud K, Lanoue L, Egense A, Willis B, Hörberg J, AlAbdi L, Mayer K, Ütkür K, Monaghan KG, Krier J, Stoler J, Alnemer M, Shankar PR, Schaffrath R, Alkuraya FS, Brinkmann U, Eriksson LA, Lloyd K, Rauen KA. A novel DPH5-related diphthamide-deficiency syndrome causing embryonic lethality or profound neurodevelopmental disorder. Genet Med 2022; 24:1567-1582. [PMID: 35482014 DOI: 10.1016/j.gim.2022.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Diphthamide is a post-translationally modified histidine essential for messenger RNA translation and ribosomal protein synthesis. We present evidence for DPH5 as a novel cause of embryonic lethality and profound neurodevelopmental delays (NDDs). METHODS Molecular testing was performed using exome or genome sequencing. A targeted Dph5 knockin mouse (C57BL/6Ncrl-Dph5em1Mbp/Mmucd) was created for a DPH5 p.His260Arg homozygous variant identified in 1 family. Adenosine diphosphate-ribosylation assays in DPH5-knockout human and yeast cells and in silico modeling were performed for the identified DPH5 potential pathogenic variants. RESULTS DPH5 variants p.His260Arg (homozygous), p.Asn110Ser and p.Arg207Ter (heterozygous), and p.Asn174LysfsTer10 (homozygous) were identified in 3 unrelated families with distinct overlapping craniofacial features, profound NDDs, multisystem abnormalities, and miscarriages. Dph5 p.His260Arg homozygous knockin was embryonically lethal with only 1 subviable mouse exhibiting impaired growth, craniofacial dysmorphology, and multisystem dysfunction recapitulating the human phenotype. Adenosine diphosphate-ribosylation assays showed absent to decreased function in DPH5-knockout human and yeast cells. In silico modeling of the variants showed altered DPH5 structure and disruption of its interaction with eEF2. CONCLUSION We provide strong clinical, biochemical, and functional evidence for DPH5 as a novel cause of embryonic lethality or profound NDDs with multisystem involvement and expand diphthamide-deficiency syndromes and ribosomopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suma P Shankar
- Division of Genomic Medicine, UC Davis Health MIND Institute, Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis Health, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA; Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, UC Davis Health, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA.
| | - Kristin Grimsrud
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, UC Davis Health, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA; UC Davis Mouse Biology Program, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Louise Lanoue
- UC Davis Mouse Biology Program, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Alena Egense
- Division of Genomic Medicine, UC Davis Health MIND Institute, Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis Health, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA
| | - Brandon Willis
- UC Davis Mouse Biology Program, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Johanna Hörberg
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Lama AlAbdi
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Department of Translational Genomics, Center for Genomic Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Klaus Mayer
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development (pRED), Roche Innovation Center Munich (RICM), Penzberg, Germany
| | - Koray Ütkür
- Division of Microbiology, Institute of Biology, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany
| | | | - Joel Krier
- Division of Genetics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; Undiagnosed Diseases Network
| | - Joan Stoler
- Undiagnosed Diseases Network; Division of Genetics and Genomics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Maha Alnemer
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Prabhu R Shankar
- Division of Health Informatics, Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA
| | - Raffael Schaffrath
- Division of Microbiology, Institute of Biology, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany
| | - Fowzan S Alkuraya
- Department of Translational Genomics, Center for Genomic Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ulrich Brinkmann
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development (pRED), Roche Innovation Center Munich (RICM), Penzberg, Germany
| | - Leif A Eriksson
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kent Lloyd
- UC Davis Mouse Biology Program, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA; Department of Surgery, UC Davis Health, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA
| | - Katherine A Rauen
- Division of Genomic Medicine, UC Davis Health MIND Institute, Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis Health, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA
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- Undiagnosed Diseases Network
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28
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Perovic D, Damnjanovic T, Jekic B, Dusanovic-Pjevic M, Grk M, Djuranovic A, Rasic M, Novakovic I, Maksimovic N. Chromosomal microarray in postnatal diagnosis of congenital anomalies and neurodevelopmental disorders in Serbian patients. J Clin Lab Anal 2022; 36:e24441. [PMID: 35441737 PMCID: PMC9169173 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.24441] [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: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Array‐based genomic analysis is a gold standard for the detection of copy number variations (CNVs) as an important source of benign as well as pathogenic variations in humans. The introduction of chromosomal microarray (CMA) has led to a significant leap in diagnostics of genetically caused congenital malformations and neurodevelopmental disorders, with an average diagnostic yield of 15%. Here, we present our experience from a single laboratory perspective in four years’ postnatal clinical CMA application. Methods DNA samples of 430 patients with congenital anomalies and/or neurodevelopmental disorders were analyzed by comparative genome hybridization using oligonucleotide‐based microarray platforms. Interpretation of detected CNVs was performed according to current guidelines. The detection rate (DR) of clinically significant findings (pathogenic/likely pathogenic CNVs) was calculated for the whole cohort and isolated or combined phenotypic categories. Results A total of 140 non‐benign CNVs were detected in 113/430 patients (26.5%). In 70 patients at least one CNV was considered clinically significant thus reaching a diagnostic yield of 16.3%. The more complex the phenotype, including developmental delay/intellectual disability (DD/ID) as a prevailing feature, the higher the DR of clinically significant CNVs is obtained. Isolated congenital anomalies had the lowest, while the “dysmorphism plus” category had the highest diagnostic yield. Conclusion In our study, CMA proved to be a very useful method in the diagnosis of genetically caused congenital anomalies and neurodevelopmental disorders. DD/ID and dysmorphism stand out as important phenotypic features that significantly increase the diagnostic yield of the analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dijana Perovic
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Tatjana Damnjanovic
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Biljana Jekic
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Milka Grk
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ana Djuranovic
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milica Rasic
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ivana Novakovic
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Nela Maksimovic
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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Li J, Yuan Y, Liu C, Xu Y, Xiao N, Long H, Luo Z, Meng S, Wang H, Xiao B, Mao X, Long L. DNAH14 variants are associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. Hum Mutat 2022; 43:940-949. [PMID: 35438214 DOI: 10.1002/humu.24386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD) are complex and multifaceted diseases involving genetic and environmental science. The rapid development of sequencing techniques makes it possible to dig new disease-causing genes. Our study was aimed to discover novel genes linked to NDD. Trio whole-exome sequencing was performed to evaluate potential variants of NDD, identifying three unrelated patients with compound heterozygous variants in DNAH14. The detailed clinical information and genetic results of the recruited patients were obtained and systematically reviewed. Three compound heterozygous DNAH14 variants were identified (c.6100C>T(p.Arg2034Ter) and (c.5167A>G(p.Arg1723Gly), c.12640_12641delAA (p.Lys4214Valfs*7) and (c.4811T>A(p.Leu1604Gln), c.7615C>A(p.Pro2539Thr) and c.11578G>A (p.Gly3860Ser)), including one nonsense variant, one frameshift variant and four missense variants, which were all not exist or with low minor allele frequency based on the gnomAD database. The missense variants were all assumed to be damaging or probably damaging by multiple bioinformatics tools. Four of these variants were located in the AAA+ ATPase domain and two were located in the C-terminal domain. Most affected amino acids were highly conserved in various species. A spectrum of neurological and developmental phenotypes was observed including seizure, global developmental delay, microcephaly and hypotonia. Our findings indicate that variants in DNAH14 could lead to previously unrecognized neurodevelopmental disorders. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Li
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Clinical Research Center for Epileptic disease of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yu Yuan
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Clinical Research Center for Epileptic disease of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Chaorong Liu
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Clinical Research Center for Epileptic disease of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yuchen Xu
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Clinical Research Center for Epileptic disease of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Neng Xiao
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Chenzhou First People's Hospital, Chenzhou, Hunan, China
| | - Hongyu Long
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Clinical Research Center for Epileptic disease of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhaohui Luo
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Clinical Research Center for Epileptic disease of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Shujuan Meng
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Clinical Research Center for Epileptic disease of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Maternal, Child Health Hospital of Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Birth Defects Research, Prevention and Treatment, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Bo Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Clinical Research Center for Epileptic disease of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xiao Mao
- Department of Medical Genetics, Maternal, Child Health Hospital of Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Birth Defects Research, Prevention and Treatment, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Lili Long
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Birth Defects Research, Prevention and Treatment, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Clinical Research Center for Epileptic disease of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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Zhao Y, Yang L, Gong G, Cao Q, Liu J. Identify aberrant white matter microstructure in ASD, ADHD and other neurodevelopmental disorders: A meta-analysis of diffusion tensor imaging studies. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2022; 113:110477. [PMID: 34798202 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2021.110477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) usually present overlapping symptoms. Abnormal white matter (WM) microstructure has been found in these disorders. Identification of common and unique neural abnormalities across NDDs could provide further insight into the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. METHODS We performed a voxel-based meta-analysis of whole-brain diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) studies in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other NDDs. A systematic literature search was conducted through March 2020 to identify studies that compared measures of WM microstructure between patients with NDDs and neurotypical controls. Peak voxel coordinates were meta-analyzed via anisotropic effect size-signed differential mapping (AES-SDM) as well as activation likelihood estimation (ALE). RESULTS Our final sample included a total of 4137 subjects from 66 studies across five NDDs. Fractional anisotropy (FA) reductions were found in the splenium of the CC in ADHD, and the genu and splenium of CC in ASD. And mean diffusivity (MD) increases were shown in posterior thalamic radiation in ASD. No consistent abnormalities were detected in specific learning disorder, motor disorder or communication disorder. Significant differences between child/adolescent and adult patients were found within the CC across NDDs, reflective of aberrant neurodevelopmental processes in NDDs. CONCLUSIONS The current study demonstrated atypical WM patterns in ASD, ADHD and other NDDs. Microstructural abnormalities in the splenium of the CC were possibly shared among ASD and ADHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilu Zhao
- The Peking University Sixth Hospital (Institute of Mental Health), National Clinical Research Centre for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health, (Peking University), Beijing, China
| | - Li Yang
- The Peking University Sixth Hospital (Institute of Mental Health), National Clinical Research Centre for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health, (Peking University), Beijing, China
| | - Gaolang Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning & IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Imaging and Connectomics, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Qingjiu Cao
- The Peking University Sixth Hospital (Institute of Mental Health), National Clinical Research Centre for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health, (Peking University), Beijing, China.
| | - Jing Liu
- The Peking University Sixth Hospital (Institute of Mental Health), National Clinical Research Centre for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health, (Peking University), Beijing, China.
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31
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Dentici ML, Alesi V, Quinodoz M, Robens B, Guerin A, Lebon S, Poduri A, Travaglini L, Graziola F, Afenjar A, Keren B, Licursi V, Capuano A, Dallapiccola B, Superti-Furga A, Novelli A. Biallelic variants in ZNF526 cause a severe neurodevelopmental disorder with microcephaly, bilateral cataract, epilepsy and simplified gyration. J Med Genet 2022; 59:262-269. [PMID: 33397746 DOI: 10.1136/jmedgenet-2020-107430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Next-generation sequencing, combined with international pooling of cases, has impressively enhanced the discovery of genes responsible for Mendelian neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly in individuals affected by clinically undiagnosed diseases. To date, biallelic missense variants in ZNF526 gene, encoding a Krüppel-type zinc-finger protein, have been reported in three families with non-syndromic intellectual disability. METHODS Here, we describe five individuals from four unrelated families with an undiagnosed neurodevelopmental disorder in which we performed exome sequencing, on a combination of trio-based (4 subjects) or single probands (1 subject). RESULTS We identified five patients from four unrelated families with homozygous ZNF526 variants by whole exome sequencing. Four had variants resulting in truncation of ZNF526; they were affected by severe prenatal and postnatal microcephaly (ranging from -4 SD to -8 SD), profound psychomotor delay, hypertonic-dystonic movements, epilepsy and simplified gyral pattern on MRI. All of them also displayed bilateral progressive cataracts. A fifth patient had a homozygous missense variant and a slightly less severe disorder, with postnatal microcephaly (-2 SD), progressive bilateral cataracts, severe intellectual disability and unremarkable brain MRI.Mutant znf526 zebrafish larvae had notable malformations of the eye and central nervous system, resembling findings seen in the human holoprosencephaly spectrum. CONCLUSION Our findings support the role of ZNF526 biallelic variants in a complex neurodevelopmental disorder, primarily affecting brain and eyes, resulting in severe microcephaly, simplified gyral pattern, epileptic encephalopathy and bilateral cataracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Lisa Dentici
- Medical Genetics Unit, Academic Department of Pediatrics, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Genetics and Rare Diseases Research Division, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Viola Alesi
- Medical Genetics Laboratory, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Mathieu Quinodoz
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Robens
- Department of Neurology, F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology and Epilepsy Genetics Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andrea Guerin
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Kingston Health Sciences Centre, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sébastien Lebon
- Unit of Pediatric Neurology and Neurorehabilitation Unit, Division of Pediatrics, Department Woman-Mother-Child, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Annapurna Poduri
- Department of Neurology, F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology and Epilepsy Genetics Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lorena Travaglini
- Unit of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Graziola
- Neurology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Neuroscience department, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Alexandra Afenjar
- CRMR Déficiences Intellectuelles de Causes Rares, Département de Génétique, Sorbonne Université, APHP, Hôpital Trousseau, Paris, France
| | - Boris Keren
- APHP, Département de Génétique, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Valerio Licursi
- Dept. of Biology and Biotechnology, "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Capuano
- Neurology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Bruno Dallapiccola
- Genetics and Rare Diseases Research Division, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Novelli
- Medical Genetics Laboratory, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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32
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Almacellas-Barbanoj A, Albini M, Satapathy A, Jaudon F, Michetti C, Krawczun-Rygmaczewska A, Huang H, Manago F, Papaleo F, Benfenati F, Cesca F. Kidins220/ARMS modulates brain morphology and anxiety-like traits in adult mice. Cell Death Dis 2022; 8:58. [PMID: 35140204 PMCID: PMC8828717 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-022-00854-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Kinase D interacting substrate of 220 kDa (Kidins220), also known as ankyrin repeat-rich membrane spanning (ARMS), is a transmembrane scaffold protein that participates in fundamental aspects of neuronal physiology including cell survival, differentiation, and synaptic plasticity. The Kidins220 constitutive knockout line displays developmental defects in the nervous and cardiovascular systems that lead to embryonic lethality, which has so far precluded the study of this protein in the adult. Moreover, Kidins220 mRNA is tightly regulated by alternative splicing, whose impact on nervous system physiology has not yet been addressed in vivo. Here, we have asked to what extent the absence of Kidins220 splicing and the selective knockout of Kidins220 impact on adult brain homeostasis. To answer this question, we used a floxed line that expresses only the full-length, non-spliced Kidins220 mRNA, and a forebrain-specific, CaMKII-Cre driven Kidins220 conditional knockout (cKO) line. Kidins220 cKO brains are characterized by enlarged ventricles in the absence of cell death, and by deficient dendritic arborization in several cortical regions. The deletion of Kidins220 leads to behavioral changes, such as reduced anxiety-like traits linked to alterations in TrkB-BDNF signaling and sex-dependent alterations of hippocampal-dependent spatial memory. Kidins220 floxed mice present similarly enlarged brain ventricles and increased associative memory. Thus, both the absolute levels of Kidins220 expression and its splicing pattern are required for the correct brain development and related expression of behavioral phenotypes. These findings are relevant in light of the increasing evidence linking mutations in the human KIDINS220 gene to the onset of severe neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Almacellas-Barbanoj
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16132, Genova, Italy.,Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Martina Albini
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16132, Genova, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, 16132, Genova, Italy
| | - Annyesha Satapathy
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16132, Genova, Italy
| | - Fanny Jaudon
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16132, Genova, Italy.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127, Trieste, Italy
| | - Caterina Michetti
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16132, Genova, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, 16132, Genova, Italy
| | - Alicja Krawczun-Rygmaczewska
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16132, Genova, Italy.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127, Trieste, Italy
| | - Huiping Huang
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego, 30, 16163, Genova, Italy
| | - Francesca Manago
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego, 30, 16163, Genova, Italy
| | - Francesco Papaleo
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego, 30, 16163, Genova, Italy
| | - Fabio Benfenati
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16132, Genova, Italy.,IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132, Genova, Italy
| | - Fabrizia Cesca
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16132, Genova, Italy. .,Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127, Trieste, Italy.
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33
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Fehlbaum LV, Peters L, Dimanova P, Roell M, Borbás R, Ansari D, Raschle NM. Mother-child similarity in brain morphology: A comparison of structural characteristics of the brain's reading network. Dev Cogn Neurosci 2022; 53:101058. [PMID: 34999505 PMCID: PMC8749220 DOI: 10.1016/j.dcn.2022.101058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substantial evidence acknowledges the complex gene-environment interplay impacting brain development and learning. Intergenerational neuroimaging allows the assessment of familial transfer effects on brain structure, function and behavior by investigating neural similarity in caregiver-child dyads. METHODS Neural similarity in the human reading network was assessed through well-used measures of brain structure (i.e., surface area (SA), gyrification (lG), sulcal morphology, gray matter volume (GMV) and cortical thickness (CT)) in 69 mother-child dyads (children's age~11 y). Regions of interest for the reading network included left-hemispheric inferior frontal gyrus, inferior parietal lobe and fusiform gyrus. Mother-child similarity was quantified by correlation coefficients and familial specificity was tested by comparison to random adult-child dyads. Sulcal morphology analyses focused on occipitotemporal sulcus interruptions and similarity was assessed by chi-square goodness of fit. RESULTS Significant structural brain similarity was observed for mother-child dyads in the reading network for lG, SA and GMV (r = 0.349/0.534/0.542, respectively), but not CT. Sulcal morphology associations were non-significant. Structural brain similarity in lG, SA and GMV were specific to mother-child pairs. Furthermore, structural brain similarity for SA and GMV was higher compared to CT. CONCLUSION Intergenerational neuroimaging techniques promise to enhance our knowledge of familial transfer effects on brain development and disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn V Fehlbaum
- Jacobs Center for Productive Youth Development at the University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lien Peters
- Numerical Cognition Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Brain and Mind Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Plamina Dimanova
- Jacobs Center for Productive Youth Development at the University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Margot Roell
- Parenting and Special Education Research Unit, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Réka Borbás
- Jacobs Center for Productive Youth Development at the University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Ansari
- Numerical Cognition Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Brain and Mind Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Nora M Raschle
- Jacobs Center for Productive Youth Development at the University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Switzerland.
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34
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Pleiotropic effects of BDNF on the cerebellum and hippocampus: Implications for neurodevelopmental disorders. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 163:105606. [PMID: 34974125 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2021.105606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is one of the most studied neurotrophins in the mammalian brain, essential not only to the development of the central nervous system but also to synaptic plasticity. BDNF is present in various brain areas, but highest levels of expression are seen in the cerebellum and hippocampus. After birth, BDNF acts in the cerebellum as a mitogenic and chemotactic factor, stimulating the cerebellar granule cell precursors to proliferate, migrate and maturate, while in the hippocampus BDNF plays a fundamental role in synaptic transmission and plasticity, representing a key regulator for the long-term potentiation, learning and memory. Furthermore, the expression of BDNF is highly regulated and changes of its expression are associated with both physiological and pathological conditions. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the current state of knowledge on the BDNF biology and its neurotrophic role in the proper development and functioning of neurons and synapses in two important brain areas of postnatal neurogenesis, the cerebellum and hippocampus. Dysregulation of BDNF expression and signaling, resulting in alterations in neuronal maturation and plasticity in both systems, is a common hallmark of several neurodevelopmental diseases, such as autism spectrum disorder, suggesting that neuronal malfunction present in these disorders is the result of excessive or reduced of BDNF support. We believe that the more the relevance of the pathophysiological actions of BDNF, and its downstream signals, in early postnatal development will be highlighted, the more likely it is that new neuroprotective therapeutic strategies will be identified in the treatment of various neurodevelopmental disorders.
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35
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Löscher W, Kaila K. CNS pharmacology of NKCC1 inhibitors. Neuropharmacology 2021; 205:108910. [PMID: 34883135 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The Na-K-2Cl cotransporter NKCC1 and the neuron-specific K-Cl cotransporter KCC2 are considered attractive CNS drug targets because altered neuronal chloride regulation and consequent effects on GABAergic signaling have been implicated in numerous CNS disorders. While KCC2 modulators are not yet clinically available, the loop diuretic bumetanide has been used off-label in attempts to treat brain disorders and as a tool for NKCC1 inhibition in preclinical models. Bumetanide is known to have anticonvulsant and neuroprotective effects under some pathophysiological conditions. However, as shown in several species from neonates to adults (mice, rats, dogs, and by extrapolation in humans), at the low clinical doses of bumetanide approved for diuresis, this drug has negligible access into the CNS, reaching levels that are much lower than what is needed to inhibit NKCC1 in cells within the brain parenchyma. Several drug discovery strategies have been initiated over the last ∼15 years to develop brain-permeant compounds that, ideally, should be selective for NKCC1 to eliminate the diuresis mediated by inhibition of renal NKCC2. The strategies employed to improve the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of NKCC1 blockers include evaluation of other clinically approved loop diuretics; development of lipophilic prodrugs of bumetanide; development of side-chain derivatives of bumetanide; and unbiased high-throughput screening approaches of drug discovery based on large chemical compound libraries. The main outcomes are that (1), non-acidic loop diuretics such as azosemide and torasemide may have advantages as NKCC1 inhibitors vs. bumetanide; (2), bumetanide prodrugs lead to significantly higher brain levels than the parent drug and have lower diuretic activity; (3), the novel bumetanide side-chain derivatives do not exhibit any functionally relevant improvement of CNS accessibility or NKCC1 selectivity vs. bumetanide; (4) novel compounds discovered by high-throughput screening may resolve some of the inherent problems of bumetanide, but as yet this has not been achieved. Thus, further research is needed to optimize the design of brain-permeant NKCC1 inhibitors. In parallel, a major challenge is to identify the mechanisms whereby various NKCC1-expressing cellular targets of these drugs within (e.g., neurons, oligodendrocytes or astrocytes) and outside the brain parenchyma (e.g., the blood-brain barrier, the choroid plexus, and the endocrine system), as well as molecular off-target effects, might contribute to their reported therapeutic and adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Löscher
- Dept. of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Germany; Center for Systems Neuroscience Hannover, Germany.
| | - Kai Kaila
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences and Neuroscience Center (HiLIFE), University of Helsinki, Finland
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Xiang J, Ding Y, Yang F, Gao A, Zhang W, Tang H, Mao J, He Q, Zhang Q, Wang T. Genetic Analysis of Children With Unexplained Developmental Delay and/or Intellectual Disability by Whole-Exome Sequencing. Front Genet 2021; 12:738561. [PMID: 34858471 PMCID: PMC8631448 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.738561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Whole-exome sequencing (WES) has been recommended as a first-tier clinical diagnostic test for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). We aimed to identify the genetic causes of 17 children with developmental delay (DD) and/or intellectual disability (ID). Methods: WES and exome-based copy number variation (CNV) analysis were performed for 17 patients with unexplained DD/ID. Results: Single-nucleotide variant (SNV)/small insertion or deletion (Indel) analysis and exome-based CNV calling yielded an overall diagnostic rate of 58.8% (10/17), of which diagnostic SNVs/Indels accounted for 41.2% (7/17) and diagnostic CNVs accounted for 17.6% (3/17). Conclusion: Our findings expand the known mutation spectrum of genes related to DD/ID and indicate that exome-based CNV analysis could improve the diagnostic yield of patients with DD/ID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Xiang
- Center for Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China.,Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Yang Ding
- Center for Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China.,Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Fei Yang
- Center for Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China.,Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Ang Gao
- Center for Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China.,Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Center for Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China.,Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Hui Tang
- Center for Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China.,Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Jun Mao
- Center for Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China.,Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Quanze He
- Center for Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China.,Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Qin Zhang
- Center for Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China.,Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Center for Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China.,Center for Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou, China
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Ebstein F, Küry S, Papendorf JJ, Krüger E. Neurodevelopmental Disorders (NDD) Caused by Genomic Alterations of the Ubiquitin-Proteasome System (UPS): the Possible Contribution of Immune Dysregulation to Disease Pathogenesis. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:733012. [PMID: 34566579 PMCID: PMC8455891 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.733012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Over thirty years have passed since the first description of ubiquitin-positive structures in the brain of patients suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Meanwhile, the intracellular accumulation of ubiquitin-modified insoluble protein aggregates has become an indisputable hallmark of neurodegeneration. However, the role of ubiquitin and a fortiori the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) in the pathogenesis of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD) is much less described. In this article, we review all reported monogenic forms of NDD caused by lesions in genes coding for any component of the UPS including ubiquitin-activating (E1), -conjugating (E2) enzymes, ubiquitin ligases (E3), ubiquitin hydrolases, and ubiquitin-like modifiers as well as proteasome subunits. Strikingly, our analysis revealed that a vast majority of these proteins have a described function in the negative regulation of the innate immune response. In this work, we hypothesize a possible involvement of autoinflammation in NDD pathogenesis. Herein, we discuss the parallels between immune dysregulation and neurodevelopment with the aim at improving our understanding the biology of NDD and providing knowledge required for the design of novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frédéric Ebstein
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Sébastien Küry
- CHU Nantes, Service de Génétique Médicale, Nantes, France.,l'Institut du Thorax, CNRS, INSERM, CHU Nantes, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Jonas Johannes Papendorf
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Elke Krüger
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
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38
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Quantitative neurogenetics: applications in understanding disease. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 49:1621-1631. [PMID: 34282824 DOI: 10.1042/bst20200732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders (NNDs) are a group of conditions with a broad range of core and co-morbidities, associated with dysfunction of the central nervous system. Improvements in high throughput sequencing have led to the detection of putative risk genetic loci for NNDs, however, quantitative neurogenetic approaches need to be further developed in order to establish causality and underlying molecular genetic mechanisms of pathogenesis. Here, we discuss an approach for prioritizing the contribution of genetic risk loci to complex-NND pathogenesis by estimating the possible impacts of these loci on gene regulation. Furthermore, we highlight the use of a tissue-specificity gene expression index and the application of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve the interpretation of the role of genetic risk elements in NND pathogenesis. Given that NND symptoms are associated with brain dysfunction, risk loci with direct, causative actions would comprise genes with essential functions in neural cells that are highly expressed in the brain. Indeed, NND risk genes implicated in brain dysfunction are disproportionately enriched in the brain compared with other tissues, which we refer to as brain-specific expressed genes. In addition, the tissue-specificity gene expression index can be used as a handle to identify non-brain contexts that are involved in NND pathogenesis. Lastly, we discuss how using an AI approach provides the opportunity to integrate the biological impacts of risk loci to identify those putative combinations of causative relationships through which genetic factors contribute to NND pathogenesis.
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Lee J, Avramets D, Jeon B, Choo H. Modulation of Serotonin Receptors in Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Focus on 5-HT7 Receptor. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26113348. [PMID: 34199418 PMCID: PMC8199608 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26113348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Since neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) influence more than 3% of children worldwide, there has been intense investigation to understand the etiology of disorders and develop treatments. Although there are drugs such as aripiprazole, risperidone, and lurasidone, these medications are not cures for the disorders and can only help people feel better or alleviate their symptoms. Thus, it is required to discover therapeutic targets in order to find the ultimate treatments of neurodevelopmental disorders. It is suggested that abnormal neuronal morphology in the neurodevelopment process is a main cause of NDDs, in which the serotonergic system is emerging as playing a crucial role. From this point of view, we noticed the correlation between serotonin receptor subtype 7 (5-HT7R) and NDDs including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), fragile X syndrome (FXS), and Rett syndrome (RTT). 5-HT7R modulators improved altered behaviors in animal models and also affected neuronal morphology via the 5-HT7R/G12 signaling pathway. Through the investigation of recent studies, it is suggested that 5-HT7R could be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieon Lee
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Korea; (J.L.); (D.A.)
- Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Korea
| | - Diana Avramets
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Korea; (J.L.); (D.A.)
- Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Korea
| | - Byungsun Jeon
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Korea; (J.L.); (D.A.)
- Correspondence: (B.J.); (H.C.); Tel.: +82-2-958-5191 (B.J.); +82-2-958-5157 (H.C.)
| | - Hyunah Choo
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Korea; (J.L.); (D.A.)
- Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Korea
- Correspondence: (B.J.); (H.C.); Tel.: +82-2-958-5191 (B.J.); +82-2-958-5157 (H.C.)
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How children with neurodevelopmental disorders can benefit from the neurocognitive effects of exercise. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 127:514-519. [PMID: 33991545 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.04.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Exercise is an integral part of children's lives, and research in educational settings has found that regular engagement promises improvements in executive function (i.e. top-down control of goal-directed behavior). Based on recent advances in understanding the moderators and the neurocognitive mechanisms of these effects, we highlight a potential application of exercise in the treatment of executive dysfunction. Even though different neurodevelopmental disorders are characterized by a heterogeneity in core symptoms, children affected by these disorders often face common executive function deficits. So far, exercise has not been recognized as an alternative or additional treatment for this specific cognitive impairment. The limited experimental evidence in children with neurodevelopmental disorders provides a first indication that regular exercise engagement benefits executive function. However, we identified key research questions that need to be answered before a prescription of exercise to children with executive dysfunction can be encouraged in clinical practice.
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41
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Ricci R, Colasante G. CRISPR/dCas9 as a Therapeutic Approach for Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Innovations and Limitations Compared to Traditional Strategies. Dev Neurosci 2021; 43:253-261. [PMID: 33940579 DOI: 10.1159/000515845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain development is a complex process that requires a series of precise and coordinated events to take place. When alterations in some of those events occur, neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) may appear, with their characteristic symptoms, including cognitive, social motor deficits, and epilepsy. While pharmacologic treatments have been the only therapeutic options for many years, more recently the research is turning to the direct removal of the underlying genetic cause of each specific NDD. This is possible thanks to the increased knowledge of genetic basis of those diseases and the enormous advances in genome-editing tools. Together with clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9-based strategies, there is a great development also of nuclease defective Cas9 (dCas9) tools that, with an extreme flexibility, allow the recruitment of specific protein functions to the desired genomic sites. In this work, we review dCas9-based tools and discuss all the published applications in the setting of therapeutic approaches for NDDs at the preclinical level. In particular, dCas9-based therapeutic strategies for Dravet syndrome, transcallosal dysconnectivity caused by mutations in C11orf46 gene, and Fragile X syndrome are presented and discussed. A direct comparison with other possible therapeutic strategies, such as classic gene replacement or CRISPR/Cas9-based strategies, is provided. We also highlight not only those aspects that constitute a clear advantage compared to previous strategies but also the main technical hurdles related to their applications that need to be overcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaele Ricci
- Stem Cell and Neurogenesis Unit, Division of Neuroscience, Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy.,Translational and Molecular Medicine PhD Program, DIMET, University of Milan-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Gaia Colasante
- Stem Cell and Neurogenesis Unit, Division of Neuroscience, Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
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42
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[A review on the genetic mechanism of chromatin remodeling in children with neurodevelopmental disorders]. ZHONGGUO DANG DAI ER KE ZA ZHI = CHINESE JOURNAL OF CONTEMPORARY PEDIATRICS 2021; 23. [PMID: 33691929 PMCID: PMC7969188 DOI: 10.7499/j.issn.1008-8830.2012076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Neural development is regulated by both external environment and internal signals, and in addition to transcription factors, epigenetic modifications also play an important role. By focusing on the genetic mechanism of ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling in children with neurodevelopmental disorders, this article elaborates on the effect of four chromatin remodeling complexes on neurogenesis and the development and maturation of neurons and neuroglial cells and introduces the clinical research advances in neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders are the most prevalent chronic medical conditions encountered in pediatric primary care. In addition to identifying appropriate descriptive diagnoses and guiding families to evidence-based treatments and supports, comprehensive care for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders includes a search for an underlying etiologic diagnosis, primarily through a genetic evaluation. Identification of an underlying genetic etiology can inform prognosis, clarify recurrence risk, shape clinical management, and direct patients and families to condition-specific resources and supports. Here we review the utility of genetic testing in patients with neurodevelopmental disorders and describe the three major testing modalities and their yields - chromosomal microarray, exome sequencing (with/without copy number variant calling), and FMR1 CGG repeat analysis for fragile X syndrome. Given the diagnostic yield of genetic testing and the potential for clinical and personal utility, there is consensus that genetic testing should be offered to all patients with global developmental delay, intellectual disability, and/or autism spectrum disorder. Despite this recommendation, data suggest that a minority of children with autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability have undergone genetic testing. To address this gap in care, we describe a structured but flexible approach to facilitate integration of genetic testing into clinical practice across pediatric specialties and discuss future considerations for genetic testing in neurodevelopmental disorders to prepare pediatric providers to care for patients with such diagnoses today and tomorrow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliann M. Savatt
- Autism & Developmental Medicine Institute, Geisinger, Danville, PA, United States
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44
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Falissard B. Did we take the right train in promoting the concept of "Neurodevelopmental disorders"? Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2021; 30:179-181. [PMID: 33598749 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-021-01743-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Falissard
- CESP, INSERM U1018, Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Villejuif, AP-HP, France.
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45
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Finucane BM, Myers SM, Martin CL, Ledbetter DH. Long overdue: including adults with brain disorders in precision health initiatives. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2020; 65:47-52. [PMID: 32544666 PMCID: PMC7736248 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2020.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Developmental brain disorders (DBD), including autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, and schizophrenia, are clinically defined and etiologically heterogeneous conditions with a wide range of outcomes. Rare pathogenic copy number and single nucleotide genomic variants are among the most common known etiologies, with diagnostic yields approaching for some DBD cohorts. Incorporating genetic testing into the care of adult patients with DBD, paired with targeted genetic counseling and family cascade testing, may increase self-advocacy and decrease stigma. In the long-term, breakthroughs in the understanding of DBD pathophysiology will hinge on the identification, engagement, and study of individuals with rare genetic DBD etiologies, consistent with successful precision medicine approaches to the treatment of cancer and cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda M Finucane
- Autism & Developmental Medicine Institute, Geisinger, United States.
| | - Scott M Myers
- Autism & Developmental Medicine Institute, Geisinger, United States
| | - Christa L Martin
- Autism & Developmental Medicine Institute, Geisinger, United States
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46
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Grumi S, Provenzi L, Gardani A, Aramini V, Dargenio E, Naboni C, Vacchini V, Borgatti R. Rehabilitation services lockdown during the COVID-19 emergency: the mental health response of caregivers of children with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Disabil Rehabil 2020; 43:27-32. [PMID: 33167738 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2020.1842520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The present study investigated the impact of the COVID-19-related rehabilitation services lockdown on the mental health of caregivers of children with neurodevelopmental disabilities. METHODS Between 26 March and 11 May 2020, 84 caregivers filled out ad-hoc and standardized questionnaires through an online survey in order to measure their psychological response to the emergency and lockdown as well as their levels of parenting stress, anxiety and depression. RESULTS Worries about COVID-19 contagion and concerns for the child left without rehabilitation programs were the greatest sources of mental health burden for caregivers. Nonetheless, only the concerns for the child were significantly associated with caregivers' reports of stress, depressive and anxious symptoms. DISCUSSION These findings highlight the burden faced by caregivers of children with neurodevelopmental disabilities during the COVID-19 emergency in Italy. These families should be considered as a high-risk population that requires dedicated healthcare attention, such as promoting continuity of care by investing in tele-rehabilitation programs. Implications for rehabilitation Caregivers of children with disability reported symptoms of anxiety and depression during COVID-19 emergency. Major concerns regarded COVID-19 contagion risk and child development during rehabilitation lockdown. Caregivers' psychological symptoms were associated with concerns for child development during the lockdown. Parents of children with disability may face relevant stress during and after COVID-19 psychological burden. During COVID-19 recovery, policy-makers and clinicians should dedicate specific care actions for families of children with disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Grumi
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Livio Provenzi
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Alice Gardani
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Valentina Aramini
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Erika Dargenio
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Cecilia Naboni
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Valeria Vacchini
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Renato Borgatti
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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47
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Turner TJ, Zourray C, Schorge S, Lignani G. Recent advances in gene therapy for neurodevelopmental disorders with epilepsy. J Neurochem 2020; 157:229-262. [PMID: 32880951 PMCID: PMC8436749 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders can be caused by mutations in neuronal genes fundamental to brain development. These disorders have severe symptoms ranging from intellectually disability, social and cognitive impairments, and a subset are strongly linked with epilepsy. In this review, we focus on those neurodevelopmental disorders that are frequently characterized by the presence of epilepsy (NDD + E). We loosely group the genes linked to NDD + E with different neuronal functions: transcriptional regulation, intrinsic excitability and synaptic transmission. All these genes have in common a pivotal role in defining the brain architecture and function during early development, and when their function is altered, symptoms can present in the first stages of human life. The relationship with epilepsy is complex. In some NDD + E, epilepsy is a comorbidity and in others seizures appear to be the main cause of the pathology, suggesting that either structural changes (NDD) or neuronal communication (E) can lead to these disorders. Furthermore, grouping the genes that cause NDD + E, we review the uses and limitations of current models of the different disorders, and how different gene therapy strategies are being developed to treat them. We highlight where gene replacement may not be a treatment option, and where innovative therapeutic tools, such as CRISPR‐based gene editing, and new avenues of delivery are required. In general this group of genetically defined disorders, supported increasing knowledge of the mechanisms leading to neurological dysfunction serve as an excellent collection for illustrating the translational potential of gene therapy, including newly emerging tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J Turner
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Clara Zourray
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK.,Department of Pharmacology, UCL School of Pharmacy, London, UK
| | | | - Gabriele Lignani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
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48
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Papanastasiou G, Drigas A, Skianis C, Lytras M. Brain computer interface based applications for training and rehabilitation of students with neurodevelopmental disorders. A literature review. Heliyon 2020; 6:e04250. [PMID: 32954024 PMCID: PMC7482019 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e04250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this article is to explore a paradigm shift on Brain Computer Interface (BCI) research, as well as on intervention best practices for training and rehabilitation of students with neurodevelopmental disorders. Recent studies indicate that BCI devices have positive impact on students' attention skills and working memory as well as on other skills, such as visuospatial, social, imaginative and emotional abilities. BCI applications aim to emulate humans' brain and address the appropriate understanding for each student's neurodevelopmental disorders. Studies conducted to provide knowledge about BCI-based intervention applications regarding memory, attention, visuospatial, learning, collaboration, and communication, social, creative and emotional skills are highlighted. Only non-invasive BCI type of applications are being investigated based upon representative, non-exhaustive and state-of-the-art studies within the field. This article examines the progress of BCI research so far, while different BCI paradigms are investigated. BCI-based applications could successfully regulate students' cognitive abilities when used for their training and rehabilitation. Future directions to investigate BCI-based applications for training and rehabilitation of students with neurodevelopmental disorders concerning the different populations involved are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Papanastasiou
- NSCR Demokritos, Patr. Gregoriou E' & 27, Neapoleos str., 15341, Greece.,University of the Aegean Karlovassi Samos, 83200, Greece
| | - Athanasios Drigas
- NSCR Demokritos, Patr. Gregoriou E' & 27, Neapoleos str., 15341, Greece
| | | | - Miltiadis Lytras
- The American College of Greece, 6 Gravias str., 153 42, Greece.,King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia
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49
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Provenzi L, Giusti L, Caglia M, Rosa E, Mascheroni E, Montirosso R. Evidence and Open Questions for the Use of Video-Feedback Interventions With Parents of Children With Neurodevelopmental Disabilities. Front Psychol 2020; 11:1374. [PMID: 32625153 PMCID: PMC7314919 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.01374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Video-Feedback Intervention (VFI) is a technique aimed at promoting positive parenting that has been found to be supportive of child development and parent-child interaction in different at-risk and clinical populations. The application of VFI with parents of children with neurodevelopmental disabilities (ND; e.g., cerebral palsy, sensory and/or psychomotor delay, and genetic syndromes) is growing. Nonetheless, no systematic review is currently available documenting whether this type of intervention improves children's developmental outcomes (e.g., behavioral stability and cognitive abilities), parental caregiving skills (e.g., responsive parenting), and parental emotional well-being (e.g., depressive symptomatology). In the present mini-review, 212 VFI records were retrieved from three databases (i.e., PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science), and 10 papers were finally included. Abstracted information included age, diagnosis, methodological aspects (timing, setting, and themes), and child/parent outcomes. Significant improvements from pre- to post-VFI were observed in all studies. Specifically, the VFIs were significantly associated with better children developmental outcomes and parental caregiving skills. Inconsistent findings emerged for the VFI effects on parental emotional well-being. Overall, the current mini-review supports the potential effectiveness of parent-focused VFI interventions for parents of children with ND, despite the presence of open questions that need to be addressed in future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Rosario Montirosso
- 0-3 Centre for the at-Risk Infant, Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, Lecco, Italy
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50
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilip R Patel
- Professor and Chairman, Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI, USA
| | - Joav Merrick
- Director, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Professor of Pediatrics, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel.,Professor of Pediatrics, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA.,Professor of Public Health, Center for Healthy Development, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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