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Kessi M, Chen B, Pang N, Yang L, Peng J, He F, Yin F. The genotype-phenotype correlations of the CACNA1A-related neurodevelopmental disorders: a small case series and literature reviews. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1222321. [PMID: 37555011 PMCID: PMC10406136 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1222321] [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: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genotype-phenotype correlations of the CACNA1A-related neurodevelopmental disorders such as global developmental delay (GDD)/intellectual disability (ID), epileptic encephalopathy (EE), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are unknown. We aimed to summarize genotype-phenotype correlations and potential treatment for CACNA1A-related neurodevelopmental disorders. METHODS Six children diagnosed with CACNA1A-related neurodevelopmental disorders at Xiangya Hospital, Central South University from April 2018 to July 2021 were enrolled. The PubMed database was systematically searched for all reported patients with CACNA1A-related neurodevelopmental disorders until February 2023. Thereafter, we divided patients into several groups for comparison. RESULTS Six patients were recruited from our hospital. Three cases presented with epilepsy, five with GDD/ID, five with ataxia, and two with ASD. The variants included p.G701R, p.R279C, p.D1644N, p.Y62C, p.L1422Sfs*8, and p. R1664Q [two gain-of-function (GOF) and four loss-of-function (LOF) variants]. About 187 individuals with GDD/ID harboring 123 variants were found (case series plus data from literature). Of those 123 variants, p.A713T and p.R1664* were recurrent, 37 were LOF, and 7 were GOF. GOF variants were linked with severe-profound GDD/ID while LOF variants were associated with mild-moderate GDD/ID (p = 0.001). The p.A713T variant correlated with severe-profound GDD/ID (p = 0.003). A total of 130 epileptic patients harboring 83 variants were identified. The epileptic manifestations included status epilepticus (n = 64), provoked seizures (n = 49), focal seizures (n = 37), EE (n = 29), absence seizures (n = 26), and myoclonic seizures (n = 10). About 49 (42.20%) patients had controlled seizures while 67 (57.80%) individuals remained with refractory seizures. Status epilepticus correlated with variants located on S4, S5, and S6 (p = 0.000). Among the 83 epilepsy-related variants, 23 were recurrent, 32 were LOF, and 11 were GOF. Status epilepticus was linked with GOF variants (p = 0.000). LOF variants were associated with absence seizures (p = 0.000). Six patients died at an early age (3 months to ≤5 years). We found 18 children with ASD. Thirteen variants including recurrent ones were identified in those 18 cases. GOF changes were more linked to ASD. CONCLUSION The p.A713T variant is linked with severe-profound GDD/ID. More than half of CACNA1A-related epilepsy is refractory. The most common epileptic manifestation is status epilepticus, which correlates with variants located on S4, S5, and S6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Kessi
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Pediatrics, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Children’s Neurodevelopmental Disabilities of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Baiyu Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Pediatrics, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Children’s Neurodevelopmental Disabilities of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Nan Pang
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Pediatrics, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Children’s Neurodevelopmental Disabilities of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lifen Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Pediatrics, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Children’s Neurodevelopmental Disabilities of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jing Peng
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Pediatrics, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Children’s Neurodevelopmental Disabilities of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Fang He
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Pediatrics, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Children’s Neurodevelopmental Disabilities of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Fei Yin
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Pediatrics, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Children’s Neurodevelopmental Disabilities of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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Kramer AA, Bennett DF, Barañano KW, Bannister RA. A neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a dysfunctional CACNA1A allele. eNeurologicalSci 2023; 31:100456. [PMID: 36938367 PMCID: PMC10020665 DOI: 10.1016/j.ensci.2023.100456] [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: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
P/Q-type Ca2+ flux into nerve terminals via CaV2.1 channels is essential for neurotransmitter release at neuromuscular junctions and nearly all central synapses. Mutations in CACNA1A, the gene encoding CaV2.1, cause a spectrum of pediatric neurological disorders. We have identified a patient harboring an autosomal-dominant de novo frameshift-causing nucleotide duplication in CACNA1A (c.5018dupG). The duplicated guanine precipitated 43 residues of altered amino acid sequence beginning with a glutamine to serine substitution in CaV2.1 at position 1674 ending with a premature stop codon (CaV2.1 p.Gln1674Serfs*43). The patient presented with episodic downbeat vertical nystagmus, hypotonia, ataxia, developmental delay and febrile seizures. In patch-clamp experiments, no Ba2+ current was observed in tsA-201 cells expressing CaV2.1 p.Gln1674Serfs*43 with β4 and α2δ-1 auxiliary subunits. The ablation of divalent flux in response to depolarization was likely attributable to the inability of CaV2.1 p.Gln1674Serfs*43 to form a complete channel pore. Our results suggest that the pathology resulting from this frameshift-inducing nucleotide duplication is a consequence of an effective haploinsufficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audra A. Kramer
- Department of Pathology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 108 North Greene Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
- Corresponding authors at: National Institutes of Health, Center for Scientific Review, Division of Neuroscience, Development and Aging, 6701 Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Daniel F. Bennett
- Department of Pathology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 108 North Greene Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Kristin W. Barañano
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 200 North Wolfe Street, Suite 2158, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Roger A. Bannister
- Department of Pathology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 108 North Greene Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
- Corresponding authors at: National Institutes of Health, Center for Scientific Review, Division of Neuroscience, Development and Aging, 6701 Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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Hassan A. Episodic Ataxias: Primary and Secondary Etiologies, Treatment, and Classification Approaches. Tremor Other Hyperkinet Mov (N Y) 2023; 13:9. [PMID: 37008993 PMCID: PMC10064912 DOI: 10.5334/tohm.747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Episodic ataxia (EA), characterized by recurrent attacks of cerebellar dysfunction, is the manifestation of a group of rare autosomal dominant inherited disorders. EA1 and EA2 are most frequently encountered, caused by mutations in KCNA1 and CACNA1A. EA3-8 are reported in rare families. Advances in genetic testing have broadened the KCNA1 and CACNA1A phenotypes, and detected EA as an unusual presentation of several other genetic disorders. Additionally, there are various secondary causes of EA and mimicking disorders. Together, these can pose diagnostic challenges for neurologists. Methods A systematic literature review was performed in October 2022 for 'episodic ataxia' and 'paroxysmal ataxia', restricted to publications in the last 10 years to focus on recent clinical advances. Clinical, genetic, and treatment characteristics were summarized. Results EA1 and EA2 phenotypes have further broadened. In particular, EA2 may be accompanied by other paroxysmal disorders of childhood with chronic neuropsychiatric features. New treatments for EA2 include dalfampridine and fampridine, in addition to 4-aminopyridine and acetazolamide. There are recent proposals for EA9-10. EA may also be caused by gene mutations associated with chronic ataxias (SCA-14, SCA-27, SCA-42, AOA2, CAPOS), epilepsy syndromes (KCNA2, SCN2A, PRRT2), GLUT-1, mitochondrial disorders (PDHA1, PDHX, ACO2), metabolic disorders (Maple syrup urine disease, Hartnup disease, type I citrullinemia, thiamine and biotin metabolism defects), and others. Secondary causes of EA are more commonly encountered than primary EA (vascular, inflammatory, toxic-metabolic). EA can be misdiagnosed as migraine, peripheral vestibular disorders, anxiety, and functional symptoms. Primary and secondary EA are frequently treatable which should prompt a search for the cause. Discussion EA may be overlooked or misdiagnosed for a variety of reasons, including phenotype-genotype variability and clinical overlap between primary and secondary causes. EA is highly treatable, so it is important to consider in the differential diagnosis of paroxysmal disorders. Classical EA1 and EA2 phenotypes prompt single gene test and treatment pathways. For atypical phenotypes, next generation genetic testing can aid diagnosis and guide treatment. Updated classification systems for EA are discussed which may assist diagnosis and management.
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Filippopulos FM, Schnabel L, Dunker K, Strobl R, Huppert D. Episodic ataxias in children and adolescents: Clinical findings and suggested diagnostic criteria. Front Neurol 2022; 13:1016856. [PMID: 36353133 PMCID: PMC9638128 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.1016856] [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: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The main clinical presentation of episodic ataxias (EAs) consists of vertigo and dizziness attacks lasting for minutes to hours with widely varying accompanying symptoms. The differentiation of EA and episodic vertigo/dizziness syndromes in childhood and adolescence such as vestibular migraine (VM) and recurrent vertigo of childhood (RVC) can be challenging. Furthermore, only few prospective studies of children/adolescents with EA are available. Objective This study aims to characterize clinical and instrument-based findings in EA patients under 18 years of age, to delineate the clinical and therapeutic course in EA, and to present potentially new genetic mutations. Furthermore, the study aims to differentiate distinct characteristics between EA, VM, and RVC patients. Methods We prospectively collected clinical and instrument-based data of patients younger than 18 years, who presented at the German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders (DSGZ) at the LMU University Hospital in Munich with EA, VM, or RVC between January 2016 and December 2021. All patients underwent a comprehensive evaluation of neurological, ocular-motor, vestibular and cochlear function, including video-oculography with caloric testing, video head impulse test, vestibular evoked myogenic potentials, posturography, and gait analysis. Results Ten patients with EA, 15 with VM, and 15 with RVC were included. In EA the main symptoms were vertigo/dizziness attacks lasting between 5 min and 12 h. Common accompanying symptoms included walking difficulties, paleness, and speech difficulties. Six EA patients had a previously unknown gene mutation. In the interictal interval all EA patients showed distinct ocular-motor deficits. Significant differences between EA, VM, and RVC were found for accompanying symptoms such as speech disturbances and paleness, and for the trigger factor “physical activity”. Furthermore, in the interictal interval significant group differences were observed for different pathological nystagmus types, a saccadic smooth pursuit, and disturbed fixation suppression. Conclusion By combining clinical and ocular-motor characteristics we propose diagnostic criteria that can help to diagnose EA among children/adolescents and identify patients with EA even without distinct genetic findings. Nevertheless, broad genetic testing (e.g., next generation sequencing) in patients fulfilling the diagnostic criteria should be conducted to identify even rare or unknown genetic mutations for EA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipp Maximilian Filippopulos
- German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders (DSGZ), University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
- *Correspondence: Filipp Maximilian Filippopulos
| | - Lutz Schnabel
- German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders (DSGZ), University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | - Konstanze Dunker
- German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders (DSGZ), University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | - Ralf Strobl
- German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders (DSGZ), University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | - Doreen Huppert
- German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders (DSGZ), University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
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Benign Paroxysmal Vertigo of Childhood. Video Recordings of Episodes. Otol Neurotol 2022; 43:e1045-e1048. [PMID: 36026590 DOI: 10.1097/mao.0000000000003646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The main objective was to describe the nystagmus observed during benign paroxysmal vertigo (BPV) of childhood, which is one of the criteria included in the three versions of the International Classification of Headache Disorders that has never been specified. The secondary objectives were to emphasize the usefulness of a mobile phone to record nystagmus and discuss the physiopathology of this nystagmus. PATIENT A 6-year-old boy complained of approximately 30 to 50 vertigo attacks, most of them lasting around 1 minute, during a 6-month period. INTERVENTION Otoneurologic history and examination, audiovestibular exploration, and brain imaging were performed between the attacks. Video recording by the parents' mobile phone and video electroencephalography recording during a 1-day hospitalization were performed during the episodes. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Analysis of seven video recordings performed by the parents and four during a 1-day hospitalization, as well as follow-up. RESULTS The assessment between the attacks confirmed the diagnosis of BPV according to International Classification of Headache Disorders criteria. Video recordings constantly demonstrated a strong left horizontal nystagmus present at fixation in all direction of gaze, enhanced in left gaze. This nystagmus was associated with a rightward body deviation. CONCLUSION The clinical presentation was more consistent with a peripheral vestibular deficit than with a central disorder. We encourage video recording of their child by the parents because it will help both to define the ictal nystagmus and to understand the underlying pathophysiology. The latter is discussed and is probably more complex than initially thought in BPV.
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Manickam AH, Ramasamy S. Mutations in the Voltage Dependent Calcium Channel CACNA1A (P/Q type alpha 1A subunit) Causing Neurological Disorders - An Overview. Neurol India 2021; 69:808-816. [PMID: 34507393 DOI: 10.4103/0028-3886.325378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Background The voltage-dependent calcium channel α1 subunit (CACNA1A) gene plays a major role in neuronal communication. Mutation in this gene results in altered Ca2+ ion influx that modify the neurotransmitter release resulting in the development of various neurological disorders like hemiplegic migraine with cortical spreading depression, epilepsy, episodic ataxia type 2, and spinocerebellar ataxia type 6. Objective This review aimed in portraying the frequent mutations in CACNA1A gene causing hemiplegic migraine with cortical spreading depression, epilepsy, episodic ataxia type 2 and spinocerebellar ataxia type 6. Methodology A systematic search has been adopted in various databases using the keywords "Calcium channel," "migraine," "epilepsy," "episodic ataxia," and "spinocerebellar ataxia" for writing this review that collectively focuses on mutations in the CACNA1A gene causing the common neurological diseases from 1975 to 2019. Conclusion Every type of mutation has its own signature in gene functioning and understanding them might aid knowing more in disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agaath Hedina Manickam
- Molecular Genetics and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sivasamy Ramasamy
- Molecular Genetics and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
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Bohne P, Mourabit DBE, Josten M, Mark MD. Cognitive deficits in episodic Ataxia type 2 mouse models. Hum Mol Genet 2021; 30:1811-1832. [PMID: 34077522 PMCID: PMC8444449 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddab149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Episodic ataxia type 2 (EA2) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder characterized by motor incoordination, paroxysmal dystonia, vertigo, nystagmus and more recently cognitive deficits. To date over 100 mutations in the CACNA1A gene have been identified in EA2 patients leading to a loss of P/Q-type channel activity, dysfunction of cerebellar Purkinje cells (PC) and motor incoordination. To determine if the cerebellum is contributing to these cognitive deficits, we examined 2 different EA2 mouse models for cognition impairments where CACNA1A was removed specifically from cerebellar Purkinje or granule cells postnatally. Both mutant mouse models showed anxiolytic behavior to lighted, open areas in the open field and light/dark place preference tests but enhanced anxiousness in the novel suppressed feeding test. However, EA2 mice continued to show augmented latencies in the light/dark preference test and when the arena was divided into 2 dark zones in the dark/dark preference test. Moreover, increased latencies were also displayed in the novel object recognition test, indicating that EA2 mice are indecisive and anxious to explore new territories and objects and may have memory recognition deficits. Exposure to a foreign mouse led to deficiencies in attention and sniffing as well as social and genital sniffing were observed. These data suggest that postnatal removal of the P/Q type calcium channel from the cerebellum regulates neuronal activity involved in anxiety, memory, decision making and social interactions. Our EA2 mice will provide a model to identify the mechanisms and therapeutic agents underlying cognitive and psychiatric disorders seen in EA2 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Bohne
- Behavioral Neuroscience, Ruhr-University Bochum, D-44780 Bochum, Germany
| | | | - Mareike Josten
- Behavioral Neuroscience, Ruhr-University Bochum, D-44780 Bochum, Germany
| | - Melanie D Mark
- Behavioral Neuroscience, Ruhr-University Bochum, D-44780 Bochum, Germany
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Kessi M, Chen B, Peng J, Yan F, Yang L, Yin F. Calcium channelopathies and intellectual disability: a systematic review. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2021; 16:219. [PMID: 33985586 PMCID: PMC8120735 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-021-01850-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Calcium ions are involved in several human cellular processes including corticogenesis, transcription, and synaptogenesis. Nevertheless, the relationship between calcium channelopathies (CCs) and intellectual disability (ID)/global developmental delay (GDD) has been poorly investigated. We hypothesised that CCs play a major role in the development of ID/GDD and that both gain- and loss-of-function variants of calcium channel genes can induce ID/GDD. As a result, we performed a systematic review to investigate the contribution of CCs, potential mechanisms underlying their involvement in ID/GDD, advancements in cell and animal models, treatments, brain anomalies in patients with CCs, and the existing gaps in the knowledge. We performed a systematic search in PubMed, Embase, ClinVar, OMIM, ClinGen, Gene Reviews, DECIPHER and LOVD databases to search for articles/records published before March 2021. The following search strategies were employed: ID and calcium channel, mental retardation and calcium channel, GDD and calcium channel, developmental delay and calcium channel. MAIN BODY A total of 59 reports describing 159 cases were found in PubMed, Embase, ClinVar, and LOVD databases. Variations in ten calcium channel genes including CACNA1A, CACNA1C, CACNA1I, CACNA1H, CACNA1D, CACNA2D1, CACNA2D2, CACNA1E, CACNA1F, and CACNA1G were found to be associated with ID/GDD. Most variants exhibited gain-of-function effect. Severe to profound ID/GDD was observed more for the cases with gain-of-function variants as compared to those with loss-of-function. CACNA1E, CACNA1G, CACNA1F, CACNA2D2 and CACNA1A associated with more severe phenotype. Furthermore, 157 copy number variations (CNVs) spanning calcium genes were identified in DECIPHER database. The leading genes included CACNA1C, CACNA1A, and CACNA1E. Overall, the underlying mechanisms included gain- and/ or loss-of-function, alteration in kinetics (activation, inactivation) and dominant-negative effects of truncated forms of alpha1 subunits. Forty of the identified cases featured cerebellar atrophy. We identified only a few cell and animal studies that focused on the mechanisms of ID/GDD in relation to CCs. There is a scarcity of studies on treatment options for ID/GDD both in vivo and in vitro. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that CCs play a major role in ID/GDD. While both gain- and loss-of-function variants are associated with ID/GDD, the mechanisms underlying their involvement need further scrutiny.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Kessi
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
- Mawenzi Regional Referral Hospital, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Baiyu Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jing Peng
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Fangling Yan
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Lifen Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Fei Yin
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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Indelicato E, Boesch S. From Genotype to Phenotype: Expanding the Clinical Spectrum of CACNA1A Variants in the Era of Next Generation Sequencing. Front Neurol 2021; 12:639994. [PMID: 33737904 PMCID: PMC7960780 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.639994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Ion channel dysfunction is a key pathological substrate of episodic neurological disorders. A classical gene associated to paroxysmal movement disorders is CACNA1A, which codes for the pore-forming subunit of the neuronal calcium channel P/Q. Non-polyglutamine CACNA1A variants underlie familial hemiplegic ataxia type 1 (FHM1) and episodic ataxia type 2 (EA2). Classical paroxysmal manifestations of FHM1 are migraine attacks preceded by motor aura consisting of hemiparesis, aphasia, and disturbances of consciousness until coma. Patients with EA2 suffer of recurrent episodes of vertigo, unbalance, diplopia, and vomiting. Beyond these typical presentations, several reports highlighted manifold clinical features associated with P/Q channelopathies, from chronic progressive cerebellar ataxia to epilepsy and psychiatric disturbances. These manifestations may often outlast the burden of classical episodic symptoms leading to pitfalls in the diagnostic work-up. Lately, the spreading of next generation sequencing techniques linked de novo CACNA1A variants to an even broader phenotypic spectrum including early developmental delay, autism spectrum disorders, epileptic encephalopathy, and early onset paroxysmal dystonia. The age-dependency represents a striking new aspect of these phenotypes und highlights a pivotal role for P/Q channels in the development of the central nervous system in a defined time window. While several reviews addressed the clinical presentation and treatment of FHM1 and EA2, an overview of the newly described age-dependent manifestations is lacking. In this Mini-Review we present a clinical update, delineate genotype-phenotype correlations as well as summarize evidence on the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the expanded phenotype associated with CACNA1A variants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sylvia Boesch
- Center for Rare Movement Disorders Innsbruck, Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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Jaudon F, Baldassari S, Musante I, Thalhammer A, Zara F, Cingolani LA. Targeting Alternative Splicing as a Potential Therapy for Episodic Ataxia Type 2. Biomedicines 2020; 8:E332. [PMID: 32899500 PMCID: PMC7555146 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8090332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Episodic ataxia type 2 (EA2) is an autosomal dominant neurological disorder characterized by paroxysmal attacks of ataxia, vertigo, and nausea that usually last hours to days. It is caused by loss-of-function mutations in CACNA1A, the gene encoding the pore-forming α1 subunit of P/Q-type voltage-gated Ca2+ channels. Although pharmacological treatments, such as acetazolamide and 4-aminopyridine, exist for EA2, they do not reduce or control the symptoms in all patients. CACNA1A is heavily spliced and some of the identified EA2 mutations are predicted to disrupt selective isoforms of this gene. Modulating splicing of CACNA1A may therefore represent a promising new strategy to develop improved EA2 therapies. Because RNA splicing is dysregulated in many other genetic diseases, several tools, such as antisense oligonucleotides, trans-splicing, and CRISPR-based strategies, have been developed for medical purposes. Here, we review splicing-based strategies used for genetic disorders, including those for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, spinal muscular dystrophy, and frontotemporal dementia with Parkinsonism linked to chromosome 17, and discuss their potential applicability to EA2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanny Jaudon
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy;
| | - Simona Baldassari
- Unit of Medical Genetics, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (S.B.); (I.M.); (F.Z.)
| | - Ilaria Musante
- Unit of Medical Genetics, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (S.B.); (I.M.); (F.Z.)
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, 16126 Genoa, Italy
| | - Agnes Thalhammer
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), 16132 Genoa, Italy;
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Federico Zara
- Unit of Medical Genetics, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (S.B.); (I.M.); (F.Z.)
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, 16126 Genoa, Italy
| | - Lorenzo A. Cingolani
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy;
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), 16132 Genoa, Italy;
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Humbertclaude V, Riant F, Krams B, Zimmermann V, Nagot N, Annequin D, Echenne B, Tournier-Lasserve E, Roubertie A. Cognitive impairment in children with CACNA1A mutations. Dev Med Child Neurol 2020; 62:330-337. [PMID: 31115040 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.14261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM To describe the clinico-radiological phenotype of children with a CACNA1A mutation and to precisely evaluate their learning ability and cognitive status. METHOD Children between the ages of 3 and 18 years harboring a pathogenic CACNA1A mutation associated with episodic ataxia, hemiplegic migraine, benign paroxysmal torticollis, benign paroxysmal vertigo, or benign paroxysmal tonic upgaze, were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Data concerning psychomotor development, academic performance, educational management, clinical examination at inclusion, and brain imaging were collected. Cognitive assessment was performed using age-standardized scales. RESULTS Eighteen patients (nine males, nine females; mean age at inclusion: 11y 7mo [SD 4y 5mo; range 3y-17y 11mo]) from 14 families were enrolled. Eleven patients displayed the coexistence or consecutive occurrence of more than one type of episodic event. Nine patients exhibited abnormal neurological examination at inclusion. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed cerebellar atrophy in five patients. Psychomotor development was delayed in nine patients and academic difficulties were reported by the parents in 15 patients; nine patients were in special education. Impairment of intellectual function was assessed in six of the 12 patients with interpretable Full-scale IQ scores and was more frequent when cerebellar atrophy was present on MRI. INTERPRETATION Cognitive impairment is commonly associated with CACNA1A mutations. We suggest that CACNA1A-associated phenotype should be considered a neurodevelopmental disorder. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS Cognitive disabilities and academic difficulties are common in children with CACNA1A mutations associated with episodic syndromes. Cognitive function ranges from normal to moderate intellectual disorder in wheelchair-dependent children. Patients with vermian atrophy are at a higher risk of cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronique Humbertclaude
- Service de Médecine Psychologique Enfants et Adolescents, CHU Saint Eloi, Montpellier, France
| | - Florence Riant
- Laboratoire de Génétique, Groupe hospitalier Lariboisière-Fernand Widal AP-HP, Paris, France.,INSERM UMR-S740, Université Paris 7 Denis Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Benjamin Krams
- Département de Neuropédiatrie, CHU Gui de Chauliac, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Nicolas Nagot
- Centre d'Investigation Clinique, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Daniel Annequin
- Centre de la Migraine de l'Enfant, Hôpital Trousseau, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Bernard Echenne
- Département de Neuropédiatrie, CHU Gui de Chauliac, Montpellier, France
| | - Elisabeth Tournier-Lasserve
- Laboratoire de Génétique, Groupe hospitalier Lariboisière-Fernand Widal AP-HP, Paris, France.,INSERM UMR-S740, Université Paris 7 Denis Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Agathe Roubertie
- Département de Neuropédiatrie, CHU Gui de Chauliac, Montpellier, France.,INSERM U 1051, Institut des Neurosciences de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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12
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Tyagi S, Ribera AB, Bannister RA. Zebrafish as a Model System for the Study of Severe Ca V2.1 (α 1A) Channelopathies. Front Mol Neurosci 2020; 12:329. [PMID: 32116539 PMCID: PMC7018710 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2019.00329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The P/Q-type CaV2.1 channel regulates neurotransmitter release at neuromuscular junctions (NMJ) and many central synapses. CACNA1A encodes the pore-containing α1A subunit of CaV2.1 channels. In humans, de novo CACNA1A mutations result in a wide spectrum of neurological, neuromuscular, and movement disorders, such as familial hemiplegic migraine type 1 (FHM1), episodic ataxia type 2 (EA2), as well as a more recently discovered class of more severe disorders, which are characterized by ataxia, hypotonia, cerebellar atrophy, and cognitive/developmental delay. Heterologous expression of CaV2.1 channels has allowed for an understanding of the consequences of CACNA1A missense mutations on channel function. In contrast, a mechanistic understanding of how specific CACNA1A mutations lead in vivo to the resultant phenotypes is lacking. In this review, we present the zebrafish as a model to both study in vivo mechanisms of CACNA1A mutations that result in synaptic and behavioral defects and to screen for effective drug therapies to combat these and other CaV2.1 channelopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sidharth Tyagi
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Angeles B Ribera
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Roger A Bannister
- Department of Pathology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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13
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Hirasawa-Inoue A, Ishiyama A, Takeshita E, Shimizu-Motohashi Y, Saito T, Komaki H, Nakagawa E, Yuasa S, Saitsu H, Hamanaka K, Miyatake S, Matsumoto N, Sasaki M. Single-fiber electromyography-based diagnosis of CACNA1A mutation in children: A potential role of the electrodiagnosis in the era of whole exome sequencing. Brain Dev 2019; 41:905-909. [PMID: 31288946 DOI: 10.1016/j.braindev.2019.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A loss-of-function mutation in CACNA1A, which encodes P/Q-type Ca channels, causes various diseases. As most of the Ca channels at neuromuscular junctions are of the P/Q type, patients with loss-of-function CACNA1A mutations exhibit disturbed neuromuscular transmission. The associated jitters and blocking in such patients can be detected by single-fiber electromyography (SFEMG). CASES We report two cases with different phenotypes, which were predicted to harbor loss-of-function mutations of CACNA1A, by using axonal stimulation SFEMG. One case involved a 2-year-old boy with episodic ataxia type 2. The other case involved a 7-year-old girl diagnosed with epileptic encephalopathy. SFEMG results revealed jitters and blocking in both cases. Moreover, whole exome sequencing (WES) revealed a heterozygous CACNA1A mutation, c.5251C>T, p.Arg1751Trp, in the former case and a novel de novo CACNA1A mutation, c.2122G>A, p.Val708Met, in the latter. CONCLUSIONS Our cases indicate that SFEMG is a potentially useful diagnostic tool for patients with CACNA1A mutation, especially in pediatric cases where trio analysis is difficult or novel mutations are present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayaka Hirasawa-Inoue
- Department of Child Neurology, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Japan
| | - Akihiko Ishiyama
- Department of Child Neurology, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Japan.
| | - Eri Takeshita
- Department of Child Neurology, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Japan
| | - Yuko Shimizu-Motohashi
- Department of Child Neurology, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Japan
| | - Takashi Saito
- Department of Child Neurology, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Komaki
- Department of Child Neurology, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Japan
| | - Eiji Nakagawa
- Department of Child Neurology, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Japan
| | - Shota Yuasa
- Department of Pediatrics, Kameda Medical Center, Japan
| | - Hirotomo Saitsu
- Department of Biochemistry, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Kohei Hamanaka
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Satoko Miyatake
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Naomichi Matsumoto
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Masayuki Sasaki
- Department of Child Neurology, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Japan
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14
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De Gusmao CM, Silveira-Moriyama L. Paroxysmal movement disorders - practical update on diagnosis and management. Expert Rev Neurother 2019; 19:807-822. [PMID: 31353980 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2019.1648211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Paroxysmal dyskinesias and episodic ataxias are often caused by mutations in genes related to cell membrane and synaptic function. Despite the exponential increase in publications of genetically confirmed cases, management remains largely clinical based on non-systematic evidence. Areas covered: The authors provide a historical and clinical review of the main types of paroxysmal dyskinesias and episodic ataxias, with recommendations for diagnosis and management of patients suffering from these conditions. Expert opinion: After secondary paroxysmal dyskinesias, the most common paroxysmal movement disorders are likely to be PRRT2-associated paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesias, which respond well to small doses of carbamazepine, and episodic ataxia type 2, which often responds to acetazolamide. Familial paroxysmal non-kinesigenic dyskinesias are largely caused by mutations in PNKD and have poor response to therapy but improve with age. Exercise-induced dyskinesias are genetically heterogeneous, caused by disorders of glucose transport, mitochondrial function, dopaminergic pathways or neurodegenerative conditions amongst others. GNAO1 and ADCY5 mutations can also cause paroxysmal movement disorders, often in the context of ongoing motor symptoms. Although a therapeutic trial is justified for classic cases and in limited resource settings, genetic testing may help direct initial or rescue therapy. Deep brain stimulation may be an option for severe cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio M De Gusmao
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children's Hospital , Boston , MA , USA.,Department of Neurology, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP) , São Paulo , Brazil
| | - Laura Silveira-Moriyama
- Department of Neurology, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP) , São Paulo , Brazil.,Education Unit, UCL Institute of Neurology, University College London , London , UK.,Department of Neurology, Hospital Bairral, Fundação Espírita Américo Bairral , Itapira , Brazil
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15
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Algahtani H, Shirah B, Algahtani R, Al-Qahtani MH, Abdulkareem AA, Naseer MI. A novel mutation in CACNA1A gene in a Saudi female with episodic ataxia type 2 with no response to acetazolamide or 4-aminopyridine. Intractable Rare Dis Res 2019; 8:67-71. [PMID: 30881862 PMCID: PMC6409113 DOI: 10.5582/irdr.2018.01133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Episodic ataxia is a genetically heterogeneous neurological condition characterized by spells of incoordination and imbalance, often associated with progressive ataxia. Episodic ataxia type 2, caused by calcium voltage-gated channel subunit alpha1 A (CACNA1A MIM: 601011) mutation, is the most common form of episodic ataxia. It is characterized by recurrent attacks of imbalance associated with interictal nystagmus lasting hours to days and triggered by emotional stress or exercise. In this article, we report a novel heterozygous intronic variant c.5743+14A>G in the CACNA1A gene in a Saudi family. To the best of our knowledge, this variant has not been described in the literature or reported in public mutation databases. This report indicated that acetazolamide is not beneficial, and it may be even harmful to patients with episodic ataxia type 2 if used in later stages. In addition, treatment with 4-aminopyridine did not show any efficacy to improve walking or balance in our patient, which indicates the importance of early initiation of therapy before the later stages of the disease. Further research is needed to explore potential treatments for this challenging disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussein Algahtani
- King Abdulaziz Medical City/King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Address correspondence to:Dr. Hussein Algahtani, King Abdulaziz Medical City/King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, P.O. Box: 12723, Jeddah 21483, Saudi Arabia. Contact No.: 00966556633130. E-mail:
| | - Bader Shirah
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center/King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Raghad Algahtani
- King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad H. Al-Qahtani
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Muhammad Imran Naseer
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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16
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Indelicato E, Nachbauer W, Karner E, Eigentler A, Wagner M, Unterberger I, Poewe W, Delazer M, Boesch S. The neuropsychiatric phenotype in CACNA1A mutations: a retrospective single center study and review of the literature. Eur J Neurol 2018; 26:66-e7. [PMID: 30063100 DOI: 10.1111/ene.13765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE CACNA1A encodes the α1 subunit of the neuronal calcium channel P/Q. CACNA1A mutations underlie three allelic disorders: familial hemiplegic migraine type 1 (FHM1), episodic ataxia type 2 (EA2) and spinocerebellar ataxia type 6 (SCA6). A clear-cut genotype-phenotype correlation is often lacking since clinical manifestations may overlap. Several case reports have described cognitive and behavioral features in CACNA1A disorders, but studies in larger case series are lacking. METHODS Genetically confirmed CACNA1A cases were retrieved from the database of the ataxia outpatient clinic of the Department of Neurology at Innsbruck Medical University. Clinical charts and neuropsychological test results were retrospectively analyzed. In addition, a review of the literature including only genetically confirmed cases was performed. RESULTS Forty-four CACNA1A cases were identified in our database. Delayed psychomotor milestones and poor school performance were described in seven (four FHM1, three EA2) and eight (three FHM1, five EA2) patients, respectively. Psychiatric comorbidities were diagnosed in eight patients (two FHM1, six EA2). Neuropsychological testing was available for 23 patients (11 FHM1, 10 EA2, two SCA6). Various cognitive deficits were documented in 21 cases (all patients except one SCA6). Impairments were predominantly seen in figural memory, visuoconstructive abilities and verbal fluency. In the literature, an early psychomotor delay is described in several children with EA2 and FHM1, whilst reports of cognitive and psychiatric findings from adult cases are scarce. CONCLUSIONS Neuropsychiatric manifestations are common in episodic CACNA1A disorders. In the case of otherwise unexplained developmental delay and a positive family history, CACNA1A mutations should be considered in the differential diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Indelicato
- Department of Neurology, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - W Nachbauer
- Department of Neurology, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - E Karner
- Department of Neurology, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - A Eigentler
- Department of Neurology, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - M Wagner
- Department of Neuroradiology, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - I Unterberger
- Department of Neurology, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - W Poewe
- Department of Neurology, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - M Delazer
- Department of Neurology, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - S Boesch
- Department of Neurology, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
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17
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Petrovicova A, Brozman M, Kurca E, Gobo T, Dluha J, Kalmarova K, Nosal V, Hikkelova M, Krajciova A, Burjanivova T, Sivak S. Novel missense variant of CACNA1A gene in a Slovak family with episodic ataxia type 2. Biomed Pap Med Fac Univ Palacky Olomouc Czech Repub 2017; 161:107-110. [PMID: 28096552 DOI: 10.5507/bp.2016.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Episodic ataxias (EAs) are rare dominantly inherited neurological disorders characterized by recurrent episodes of ataxia lasting minutes to hours. The most common subtype is EA type 2 (EA2) caused by pathogenic variants of calcium voltage-gated channel subunit alpha1 A gene (CACNA1A) on chromosome 19p13. SUBJECTS AND METHODS We examined a Slovak three-generation family. Genomic DNA of the family members was extracted from peripheral blood and amplified by polymerase chain reaction. CACNA1A variants were screened by Sanger sequencing. RESULTS We identified four family members with recurrent episodes of ataxia. Complex differential diagnosis was performed. Genetic analysis with direct sequencing revealed a novel heterozygous variant of CACNA1A - c.5264A>G (p.Glu1755Gly) located in the pore loop of domain IV of calcium channel alpha-1A subunit. CONCLUSION We identified a novel missense variant of a voltage-dependent P/Q-type calcium channel alpha-1A subunit in a Slovak three-generation family with recurrent episodes of ataxia. The heterozygous missense variant resulted in changing a highly conserved glutamic acid within the pore loop of domain IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Petrovicova
- Department of Neurology, Faculty Hospital, Constantine Philosopher University, Spitalska 6, 94901 Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Miroslav Brozman
- Department of Neurology, Faculty Hospital, Constantine Philosopher University, Spitalska 6, 94901 Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Egon Kurca
- Clinic of Neurology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Kollarova 2, 03659 Martin, Slovak Republic
| | - Tibor Gobo
- Department of Neurology, Faculty Hospital, Constantine Philosopher University, Spitalska 6, 94901 Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Jana Dluha
- Clinic of Neurology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Kollarova 2, 03659 Martin, Slovak Republic
| | - Klaudia Kalmarova
- Clinic of Neurology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Kollarova 2, 03659 Martin, Slovak Republic
| | - Vladimir Nosal
- Clinic of Neurology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Kollarova 2, 03659 Martin, Slovak Republic
| | - Martina Hikkelova
- Alphamedical, s.r.o, Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Radlinskeho 9, 81000 Bratislava
| | - Adriana Krajciova
- Alphamedical, s.r.o, Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Radlinskeho 9, 81000 Bratislava
| | - Tatiana Burjanivova
- Department of Molecular Biology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Mala Hora 4b, 03659 Martin, Slovak Republic
| | - Stefan Sivak
- Clinic of Neurology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Kollarova 2, 03659 Martin, Slovak Republic
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18
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Tantsis EM, Gill D, Griffiths L, Gupta S, Lawson J, Maksemous N, Ouvrier R, Riant F, Smith R, Troedson C, Webster R, Menezes MP. Eye movement disorders are an early manifestation of CACNA1A mutations in children. Dev Med Child Neurol 2016; 58:639-44. [PMID: 26814174 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.13033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIM The alpha-1 isoform of the calcium channel gene is expressed abundantly in neuronal tissue, especially within the cerebellum. Mutations in this gene may manifest with hemiplegic migraine, spinocerebellar ataxia type 6 (SCA6) and episodic ataxia type 2 (EA2) in adults. There are reports of children with CACAN1A mutations presenting with paroxysmal tonic upgaze, abnormal saccades and congenital nystagmus as well as severe forms of hemiplegic migraine. The aim of this study was to review the clinical presentation and subsequent course of all children with a CACNA1A mutation who presented to a tertiary children's hospital. METHOD We reviewed retrospectively nine children with a proven CACNA1A mutation who presented to the Children's Hospital at Westmead between 2005-2015. The initial and subsequent clinical presentation, radiological features and molecular genetic profile of each child was reviewed. RESULTS Nine children presented to out institute over a 10 year period; six were female and three male. The median age of presentation was 1.2 years. Eye movement disorders were the presenting feature in eight children. Three of these children later presented with severe hemiplegic migraine episodes often requiring ICU care. Affected children also had developmental delay and developed classical hemiplegic migraine, episodic ataxia and seizures. Calcium channel blockers were used with some efficacy in preventing severe HM episodes. INTERPRETATION Eye movement disorders are an early manifestation of CACNA1A mutations in children. Improved recognition of the CACNA1A phenotype in childhood is important for early diagnosis, counselling and appropriate emergency management. There is some early evidence that calcium channel blockers may be an effective prophylactic agent for the severe hemiplegic migraine episodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther M Tantsis
- TY Nelson Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Deepak Gill
- TY Nelson Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Lyn Griffiths
- Institute for Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Sachin Gupta
- TY Nelson Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - John Lawson
- Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Neven Maksemous
- Institute for Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Robert Ouvrier
- TY Nelson Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Florence Riant
- Ap-HP, Groupe Gospitalier Lariboisiere-Fernand Widal, Laboratoire de Genetique, Paris, France
| | - Robert Smith
- Institute for Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Christopher Troedson
- TY Nelson Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Richard Webster
- TY Nelson Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Manoj P Menezes
- TY Nelson Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW, Australia
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19
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CACNA1A haploinsufficiency causes cognitive impairment, autism and epileptic encephalopathy with mild cerebellar symptoms. Eur J Hum Genet 2015; 23:1505-12. [PMID: 25735478 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2015.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2014] [Revised: 01/15/2015] [Accepted: 01/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
CACNA1A loss-of-function mutations classically present as episodic ataxia type 2 (EA2), with brief episodes of ataxia and nystagmus, or with progressive spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA6). A minority of patients carrying CACNA1A mutations develops epilepsy. Non-motor symptoms associated with these mutations are often overlooked. In this study, we report 16 affected individuals from four unrelated families presenting with a spectrum of cognitive impairment including intellectual deficiency, executive dysfunction, ADHD and/or autism, as well as childhood-onset epileptic encephalopathy with refractory absence epilepsy, febrile seizures, downbeat nystagmus and episodic ataxia. Sequencing revealed one CACNA1A gene deletion, two deleterious CACNA1A point mutations including one known stop-gain and one new frameshift variant and a new splice-site variant. This report illustrates the phenotypic heterogeneity of CACNA1A loss-of-function mutations and stresses the cognitive and epileptic manifestations caused by the loss of CaV2.1 channels function, presumably affecting cerebellar, cortical and limbic networks.
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20
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Kinder S, Ossig C, Wienecke M, Beyer A, von der Hagen M, Storch A, Smitka M. Novel frameshift mutation in the CACNA1A gene causing a mixed phenotype of episodic ataxia and familiar hemiplegic migraine. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2015; 19:72-4. [PMID: 25468264 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2014.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2014] [Revised: 10/18/2014] [Accepted: 10/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Episodic ataxia type 2 (EA2, MIM#108500) is the most common form of EA and an autosomal-dominant inherited disorder characterized by paroxysmal episodes of ataxia. The disease causative gene CACNA1A encodes for the alpha 1A subunit of the voltage-gated P/Q-type calcium channel. We report on a family with a novel mutation in the CACNA1A gene. The clinical symptoms within the family varied from the typical clinical presentation of EA2 with dysarthria, gait ataxia and oculomotor symptoms to migraine and dystonia. A novel nonsense mutation of the CACNA1A gene was identified in all affected family members and is most likely the disease causing molecular defect. The pharmacological treatment with acetazolamide (AAA) was successful in three family members so far. Treatment with AAA led to a reduction of migraine attacks and an improvement of the dystonia. This relationship confirmed the hypothesis that this novel mutation results in a heterogeneous phenotype and confutes the coincidence with common migraine. Dystonia is potentially included as a further part of the phenotype spectrum of CACNA1A gene mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Kinder
- Abteilung Neuropädiatrie, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Germany.
| | - C Ossig
- Klinik für Neurologie, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Germany
| | - M Wienecke
- Klinik für Neurologie, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Germany
| | - A Beyer
- Institut für Klinische Genetik, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Germany
| | - M von der Hagen
- Abteilung Neuropädiatrie, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Germany
| | - A Storch
- Klinik für Neurologie, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Germany
| | - M Smitka
- Abteilung Neuropädiatrie, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Germany
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21
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Beh SC, Frohman TC, Frohman EM. Neuro-ophthalmic Manifestations of Cerebellar Disease. Neurol Clin 2014; 32:1009-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2014.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shin C Beh
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Teresa C Frohman
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Elliot M Frohman
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
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Kipfer S, Strupp M. The Clinical Spectrum of Autosomal-Dominant Episodic Ataxias. Mov Disord Clin Pract 2014; 1:285-290. [PMID: 30713867 DOI: 10.1002/mdc3.12075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2014] [Revised: 06/16/2014] [Accepted: 06/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Autosomal-dominant episodic ataxias (EAs) represent a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by recurrent episodes of cerebellar ataxia (CA). Ataxia episodes are usually of short duration and often triggered by specific stimuli. There are currently seven classified subtypes of EA. EA types 1 and 2 have the highest prevalence and are therefore the clinically most relevant. Between attacks, EA 1 is associated with myokymia. In EA 2, often an interictal downbeat nystagmus with other cerebellar ocular dysfunctions is present; patients with EA 2 may display slowly progessive ataxia and vermian atrophy. EA 1 and 2 are both channelopathies, affecting the potassium channel gene, KCNA1, in EA 1 and the PQ calcium channel-encoding gene, CACNA1A, in EA 2. The types EA 3 to 7 are very rare and have to be further elucidated. Here, we review the historical, clinical, and genetic aspects of autosomal-dominant EAs and their current treatment, focusing on EA 1 and 2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Kipfer
- Department of Neurology Kantonsspital Olten Switzerland
| | - Michael Strupp
- Department of Neurology and German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders University Hospital Munich Munich Germany
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Episodic ataxia type 2: phenotype characteristics of a novel CACNA1A mutation and review of the literature. J Neurol 2014; 261:983-91. [DOI: 10.1007/s00415-014-7310-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2014] [Revised: 03/05/2014] [Accepted: 03/05/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Paroxysmal movement disorders and episodic ataxias. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-52910-7.00004-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
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Matilla-Dueñas A. Machado-Joseph disease and other rare spinocerebellar ataxias. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2012; 724:172-88. [PMID: 22411243 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-0653-2_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs) are a group of neurodegenerative diseases characterised by progressive lack of motor coordination leading to major disability. SCAs show high clinical, genetic, molecular and epidemiological variability. In the last one decade, the intensive scientific research devoted to the SCAs is resulting in clear advances and a better understanding on the genetic and nongenetic factors contributing to their pathogenesis which are facilitating the diagnosis, prognosis and development of new therapies. The scope of this chapter is to provide an updated information on Machado-Joseph disease (MJD), the most frequent SCA subtype worldwide and other rare spinocerebellar ataxias including dentatorubral-pallidoluysian atrophy (DRPLA), the X-linked fragile X tremor and ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) and the nonprogressive episodic forms of inherited ataxias (EAs). Furthermore, the different therapeutic strategies that are currently being investigated to treat the ataxia and non-ataxia symptoms in SCAs are also described.
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