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Topic: Therapy

Title: Preemptive dual therapy for children at risk for infantile-onset spinal muscular atrophy Published: May 31, 2024 Publication: Annals of Clinical and Translational Neurology

Authors: Susan E. Matesanz, Karlla W. Brigatti, Millie Young, Sabrina W. Yum, Kevin A. Strauss

Abstract:
Compare efficacy of gene therapy alone (monotherapy) or in combination with an SMN2 augmentation agent (dual therapy) for treatment of children at risk for spinal muscular atrophy type 1.
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Title: Rescue of GM3 synthase deficiency by spatially controlled, rAAV-mediated ST3GAL5 delivery Published: May 8, 2023 Publication: Journal of Clinical Investigation

Authors: Huiya Yang, Robert H Brown Jr, Dan Wang, Kevin A Strauss, Guangping Gao

Abstract:
GM3 synthase deficiency (GM3SD) is an infantile-onset epileptic encephalopathy syndrome caused by biallelic loss-of-function mutations in ST3GAL5. Loss of ST3GAL5 activity in humans results in systemic ganglioside deficiency and severe neurological impairment. No disease-modifying treatment is currently available. Certain recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAVs) can cross the blood-brain barrier to induce widespread, long-term gene expression in the CNS and represent a promising therapeutic strategy. Here, we show that a first-generation rAAV-ST3GAL5 replacement vector using a ubiquitous promoter restored tissue ST3GAL5 expression and normalized cerebral gangliosides in patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cell neurons and brain tissue from St3gal5-KO mice but caused fatal hepatotoxicity when administered systemically. In contrast, a second-generation vector optimized for CNS-restricted ST3GAL5 expression, administered by either the intracerebroventricular or i.v. route at P1, allowed for safe and effective rescue of lethality and behavior impairment in symptomatic GM3SD mice up to a year. These results support further clinical development of ST3GAL5 gene therapy.
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Title: Onasemnogene abeparvovec for presymptomatic infants with two copies of SMN2 at risk for spinal muscular atrophy type 1: the Phase III SPR1NT trial Published: June 17, 2022 Publication: Nature Medicine

Authors: Kevin A. Strauss, Michelle A. Farrar, Francesco Muntoni, Kayoko Saito, Jerry R. Mendell, Laurent Servais, Hugh J. McMillan, Richard S. Finkel, Kathryn J. Swoboda, Jennifer M. Kwon, Craig M. Zaidman, Claudia A. Chiriboga, Susan T. Iannaccone, Jena M. Krueger, Julie A. Parsons, Perry B. Shieh, Sarah Kavanagh, Sitra Tauscher-Wisniewski, Bryan E. McGill, Thomas A. Macek

Abstract:
SPR1NT (NCT03505099) was a Phase III, multicenter, single-arm study to investigate the efficacy and safety of onasemnogene abeparvovec for presymptomatic children with biallelic SMN1 mutations treated at ≤6 weeks of life. Here, we report final results for 14 children with two copies of SMN2, expected to develop spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) type 1. Efficacy was compared with a matched Pediatric Neuromuscular Clinical Research natural-history cohort (n = 23). All 14 enrolled infants sat independently for ≥30 seconds at any visit ≤18 months (Bayley-III item #26; P < 0.001; 11 within the normal developmental window). All survived without permanent ventilation at 14 months as per protocol; 13 maintained body weight (≥3rd WHO percentile) through 18 months. No child used nutritional or respiratory support. No serious adverse events were considered related to treatment by the investigator. Onasemnogene abeparvovec was effective and well-tolerated for children expected to develop SMA type 1, highlighting the urgency for universal newborn screening.
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Title: Onasemnogene abeparvovec for presymptomatic infants with three copies of SMN2 at risk for spinal muscular atrophy: the Phase III SPR1NT trial Published: June 17, 2022 Publication: Nature Medicine

Authors: Kevin A. Strauss, Michelle A. Farrar, Francesco Muntoni, Kayoko Saito, Jerry R. Mendell, Laurent Servais, Hugh J. McMillan, Richard S. Finkel, Kathryn J. Swoboda, Jennifer M. Kwon, Craig M. Zaidman, Claudia A. Chiriboga, Susan T. Iannaccone, Jena M. Krueger, Julie A. Parsons, Perry B. Shieh, Sarah Kavanagh, Melissa Wigderson, Sitra Tauscher-Wisniewski, Bryan E. McGill, Thomas A. Macek

Abstract:
Most children with biallelic SMN1 deletions and three SMN2 copies develop spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) type 2. SPR1NT (NCT03505099), a Phase III, multicenter, single-arm trial, investigated the efficacy and safety of onasemnogene abeparvovec for presymptomatic children with biallelic SMN1 mutations treated within six postnatal weeks. Of 15 children with three SMN2 copies treated before symptom onset, all stood independently before 24 months (P < 0.0001; 14 within normal developmental window), and 14 walked independently (P < 0.0001; 11 within normal developmental window). All survived without permanent ventilation at 14 months; ten (67%) maintained body weight (≥3rd WHO percentile) without feeding support through 24 months; and none required nutritional or respiratory support. No serious adverse events were considered treatment-related by the investigator. Onasemnogene abeparvovec was effective and well-tolerated for presymptomatic infants at risk of SMA type 2, underscoring the urgency of early identification and intervention.
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Title: Domino liver transplant from a donor with maple syrup urine disease into a recipient with phenylketonuria Published: April 21, 2022 Publication: Molecular Genetics and Metabolism Reports

Authors: Vikram K Raghu, Steven F Dobrowolski, Rakesh Sindhi, Kevin A Strauss, George V Mazariegos, Jerry Vockley, Kyle Soltys

Abstract:
Classical phenylketonuria (PKU) presents a unique challenge for women of child-bearing age. In the context of pregnancy, poorly controlled hyperphenylalaninemia can result in a devastating constellation of outcomes for the baby referred to as the maternal PKU Syndrome. We present the case of a woman with classical PKU unable to maintain a restricted diet and refractory to pharmacological therapies. She elected to undergo a domino liver transplant, receiving an organ from a donor with classical branched chain ketoacid dehydrogenase deficiency (maple syrup urine disease). Plasma phenylalanine concentrations normalized within a few days after transplant and remained so on an unrestricted diet during the first year of follow-up. The patient reports subjective improvements in mood, energy level, and overall quality of life. In the appropriate clinical setting, liver transplant should be considered to provide metabolic stability for PKU patients, particularly women of childbearing age.
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Title: Nusinersen by subcutaneous intrathecal catheter for symptomatic spinal muscular atrophy patients with complex spine anatomy Published: January 1, 2022 Publication: Muscle & Nerve

Authors: Vincent J Carson, Millie Young, Karlla W Brigatti, Donna L Robinson, Robert M Reed, Jihee Sohn, Marco Petrillo, Wildon Farwell, Freeman Miller, Kevin A Strauss

Abstract:
Intrathecal administration of nusinersen is challenging in patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) who have spine deformities or fusions. We prospectively studied the safety and efficacy of nusinersen administration via an indwelling subcutaneous intrathecal catheter (SIC) for SMA patients with advanced disease.
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Title: Long-term liver transplant outcomes for progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis type 1: The Pittsburgh experience Published: December 1, 2021 Publication: Pediatric Transplantation

Authors: Sarah A F Henkel, Claudia M Salgado, Miguel Reyes-Mugica, Kyle A Soltys, Kevin Strauss, George V Mazariegos, Robert H Squires, Patrick J McKiernan, Xingyu Zhang, James E Squires

Abstract:
Background: Progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis type 1 (PFIC1) arises from biallelic variants in the ATP8B1 gene that annul FIC1 activity, resulting in progressive liver disease. Liver transplant (LT) is indicated in refractory disease; however, post-LT complications including worsening diarrhea and steatohepatitis progressing to fibrosis with graft loss have been reported. We aim to describe long-term outcomes of PFIC1 LT recipients at our center, focusing on the histological changes of the allografts. Methods: We assessed 7 PFIC1 patients post-LT at the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh (CHP). All pre-transplant, explant, and sequential post-transplant pathology samples were reviewed. Continuous data are presented as the mean ± SD. We compared the pre- and post-transplant height and weight z-scores using Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results: Seven (29% male) patients with PFIC1 received a LT (n = 6) or had post-LT care (n = 1) at CHP. Six had confirmed or suspected identical genetic. At a mean follow-up of 10.9 years, both patient survival and graft survival were 100%. Diarrhea persisted (n = 3) or newly developed (n = 4) in all patients after LT contributing to ongoing growth failure, with mean z-scores -2.63 (weight) and -2.98 (height) at follow-up. Histologically, allograft steatosis was common but was not accompanied by significant inflammation, ballooning, or fibrosis. Conclusion: We show that extrahepatic disease persists and near-universal allograft steatosis occurs. However, at a mean follow-up period of over 10 years, no patients developed steatohepatitis or significant fibrosis, and both patient survival and graft survival are excellent.
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Title: Nusinersen by subcutaneous intrathecal catheter for symptomatic spinal muscular atrophy patients with complex spine anatomy Published: October 20, 2021 Publication: Muscle & Nerve

Authors: Vincent J. Carson MD, Millie Young RNC, Karlla W. Brigatti MS, CGC, Donna L. Robinson, CRNP, Robert M. Reed MD, Jihee Sohn PhD, Marco Petrillo PhD, Wildon Farwell MD, PhD, Freeman Miller MD, Kevin A. Strauss MD

Abstract:
Introduction/Aims: Intrathecal administration of nusinersen is challenging in patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) who have spine deformities or fusions. We prospectively studied the safety and efficacy of nusinersen administration via an indwelling subcutaneous intrathecal catheter (SIC) for SMA patients with advanced disease. Methods: Seventeen participants commenced nusinersen therapy between 2.7 and 31.5 years of age and received 9 to 12 doses via SIC. Safety was assessed in all participants. A separate efficacy analysis comprised 11 nonambulatory, treatment-naive SMA patients (18.1 ± 6.8 years) with three SMN2 copies and complex spine anatomy. Results: In the safety analysis, 14 treatment-related adverse events (AEs) occurred among 12 (71%) participants; all were related to the SIC and not nusinersen. Device- related AEs interfered with 2.5% of nusinersen doses. Four SICs (24%) required surgical revision due to mechanical malfunction with or without cerebrospinal fluid leak (n = 2), and one (6%) was removed due to Staphylococcus epidermidis meningitis. In the efficacy analysis, mean performance on the nine-hole peg test improved in domi- nant (15.9%, P = 0.012) and nondominant (19.0%, P = 0.008) hands and grip strength increased by 44.9% (P = 0.031). We observed no significant changes in motor scales, muscle force, pulmonary function, or SMA biomarkers. All participants in the efficacy cohort reported one or more subjective improvement(s) in endurance, purposeful hand use, arm strength, head control, and/or speech. Discussion: For SMA patients with complex spine anatomy, the SIC allows for reliable outpatient administration of nusinersen that results in meaningful improvements in upper limb function, but introduces risks of technical malfunction and iatrogenic infection.
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Title: Metabolic Control and “Ideal” Outcomes in Liver Transplantation for Maple Syrup Urine Disease Published: October 1, 2021 Publication: The Journal of Pediatrics

Authors: Caroline B Ewing, Kyle A Soltys, Kevin A Strauss, Rakesh Sindhi, Jerry Vockley, Patrick McKiernan, Robert H Squires, Geoffrey Bond, Armando Ganoza, Ajai Khanna, George V Mazariegos, James E Squires

Abstract:
To assess outcomes following liver transplantation for maple syrup urine disease by determining attainment and sustainability of metabolic control and apply an "ideal" outcome composite in long-term survivors.
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Title: Clinical Trial and Postmarketing Safety of Onasemnogene Abeparvovec Therapy Published: October 1, 2021 Publication: Drug Safety

Authors: John W. Day, Jerry R Mendell, Eugenio Mercuri, Richard S Finkel, Kevin A. Strauss, Aaron Kleyn, Sitra Tauscher-Wisniewski, Francis Fonyuy Tukov, Sandra P Reyna, Deepa H Chand

Abstract:
This is the first description of safety data for intravenous onasemnogene abeparvovec, the only approved systemically administered gene-replacement therapy for spinal muscular atrophy.
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Title: AAV-Mediated Gene Therapy for Glycosphingolipid Biosynthesis Deficiencies Published: June 1, 2021 Publication: Trends in Molecular Medicine

Authors: Huiya Yang, Robert H Brown Jr, Dan Wang, Kevin A Strauss, Guangping Gao

Abstract:
De novo glycosphingolipid (GSL) biosynthesis defects cause severe neurological diseases, including hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy type 1A (HSAN1A), GM3 synthase deficiency, and hereditary spastic paraplegia type 26 (HSPG26), each lacking effective treatment. Recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated gene therapy has emerged as a powerful treatment for monogenic diseases and might be particularly suitable for these neurological conditions.
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Title: Liver transplant for inherited metabolic disease among siblings Published: November 1, 2020 Publication: Clinical Transplantation

Authors: Patrick J McKiernan, James E Squires, Robert H Squires, Jerry Vockley, George V Mazariegos, Kyle Soltys, Armando Ganoza, Kevin Strauss, Ajai Khanna, Rakesh Sindhi

Abstract:
Liver transplantation is a successful option for inherited metabolic disease yet little is published on the outcome among siblings. We report outcomes of siblings who have undergone liver transplantation for metabolic disease in a single program. Seventy-one siblings (35 males) from 33 individual families underwent liver transplantation since 1982. Outcomes were compared over three consecutive eras. Twenty-eight families had two siblings, four had three siblings, and one had four siblings. In half of families where dates of listing were known, siblings were listed simultaneously. Mean (SD) age at listing for the oldest and second sibling was 13.2 (7.1) and 9.8 (5.7) years, respectively (p < .01). In 18/33 families, the oldest sibling underwent transplantation first. Mean (SD) age at transplant fell from the oldest to second sibling from 12.9 (7.2) to 9.5 (6.3) years, respectively (p < .001). Ten-year patient survival was 83.5% which improved over the eras: era 1 (1982-1994) 65.0%, era 2 (1995-2007) 87.5%, and era 3 (2008-2019) 93.8%: p < .03. Sex, age at transplant, order of transplant, and presence of structural liver disease did not significantly impact survival. When siblings undergo liver transplant for inherited metabolic disease, later siblings are listed and transplanted at a significantly younger age.
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Title: Preliminary safety and tolerability of a novel subcutaneous intrathecal catheter system for repeated outpatient dosing of nusinersen to children and adults with spinal muscular atrophy Published: November 1, 2018 Publication: Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics

Authors: Kevin A. Strauss, MD, Freeman Miller, MD, Vincent Carson, MD, Karlla W. Brigatti, MS, LCGC, Millie Young, RNC, Donna L. Robinson, CRNP, Christine Hendrickson, RNC, Erik G. Puffenberger, Michael D. Fox, MD, Robert M. Reed, MD, William Mackenzie, MD

Abstract:
Many patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) who might benefit from intrathecal antisense oligonucleotide (nusinersen) therapy have scoliosis or spinal fusion that precludes safe drug delivery. To circumvent spinal pathology, we designed a novel subcutaneous intrathecal catheter (SIC) system by connecting an intrathecal catheter to an implantable infusion port.
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Title: Management of Congenital Health Disease Associated with Ellis-van Creveld Short-rib Thoracic Dysplasia Published: December 1, 2017 Publication: The Journal of Pediatrics

Authors: Chowdhury D, Williams KB, Chidekel A, Pizarro C, Preedy C, Young M, Hendrickson C, Robinson DL, Kreiger P, Puffenberger EG, Strauss KA

Abstract:
To evaluate clinical outcome of patients with Ellis-van Creveld syndrome (EVC) in whom congenital heart disease (CHD) repair was delayed intentionally to reduce the risk of postoperative respiratory morbidity and mortality.
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Title: A critical reappraisal of dietary practices in methylmalonic acidemia raises concerns about the safety of medical foods. Part 2: cobalamin C deficiency Published: April 1, 2016 Publication: Genetics in Medicine

Authors: Manoli I, Myles JG, Sloan JL, Carrillo-Carrasco N, Morava E, Strauss KA, Morton H, Venditti CP

Abstract:
Cobalamin C (cblC) deficiency impairs the biosynthesis of 5'-deoxyadenosyl-adenosyl- and methyl-cobalamin, resulting in methylmalonic acidemia combined with hyperhomocysteinemia and hypomethioninemia. However, some patients with cblC deficiency are treated with medical foods, devoid of methionine and high in leucine content, that are formulated for patients with isolated propionate oxidative defects. We examined the effects of imbalanced branched-chain amino acid intake on growth outcomes in cblC-deficient patients.
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Title: Living related versus deceased donor liver transplantation for maple syrup urine disease Published: March 1, 2016 Publication: Molecular Genetics and Metabolism

Authors: Feier F, Schwartz IV, Benkert AR, Neto JS, Miura I, Chapchap P, da Fonseca EA, Vieira S, Zanotelli ML, Vairo FP, Camelo JS Jr, Margutti AV, Mazariegos GV, Puffenberger EG, Strauss KA

Abstract:
Maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) is an inherited disorder of branched chain ketoacid (BCKA) oxidation associated with episodic and chronic brain disease. Transplantation of liver from an unrelated deceased donor restores 9-13% whole-body BCKA oxidation capacity and stabilizes MSUD. Recent reports document encouraging short-term outcomes for MSUD patients who received a liver segment from mutation heterozygous living related donors (LRDT). To investigate effects of living related versus deceased unrelated grafts, we studied four Brazilian MSUD patients treated with LRDT who were followed for a mean 19 ± 12 postoperative months, and compared metabolic and clinical outcomes to 37 classical MSUD patients treated with deceased donor transplant. Patient and graft survival for LRDT were 100%. Three of 4 MSUD livers were successfully domino transplanted into non-MSUD subjects. Following LRDT, all subjects resumed a protein-unrestricted diet as mean plasma leucine decreased from 224 ± 306 μM to 143 ± 44 μM and allo-isoleucine decreased 91%. We observed no episodes of hyperleucinemia during 80 aggregate postoperative patient-months. Mean plasma leucine:isoleucine:valine concentration ratios were ~2:1:4 after deceased donor transplant compared to ~1:1:1.5 following LRDT, resulting in differences of predicted cerebral amino acid uptake. Mutant heterozygous liver segments effectively maintain steady-state BCAA and BCKA homeostasis on an unrestricted diet and during most catabolic states, but might have different metabolic effects than grafts from unrelated deceased donors. Neither living related nor deceased donor transplant affords complete protection from metabolic intoxication, but both strategies represent viable alternatives to nutritional management.
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Title: Liver transplantation for treatment of severe S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase deficiency Published: September 1, 2015 Publication: Molecular Genetics and Metabolism

Authors: Strauss KA, Ferreira C, Bottiglieri T, Zhao X, Arning E, Zhang S, Zeisel SH, Escolar ML, Presnick N, Puffenberger EG, Vugrek O, Kovacevic L, Wagner C, Mazariegos GV, Mudd SH, Soltys K

Abstract:
A child with severe S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase (AHCY) deficiency (AHCY c.428A N G, p.Tyr143Cys; c.982 T N G, p.Tyr328Asp) presented at 8 months of age with growth failure, microcephaly, global developmental delay, myopathy, hepatopathy, and factor VII deficiency. Plasma methionine, S-adenosylmethionine (AdoMet), and S-adenosylhomocysteine (AdoHcy) were markedly elevated and the molar concentration ratio of AdoMet:AdoHcy, believed to regulate a myriad of methyltransferase reactions, was 15% of the control mean. Dietary therapy failed to normalize biochemical markers or alter the AdoMet to AdoHcy molar concentration ratio. At 40 months of age, the proband received a liver segment from a healthy, unrelated living donor. Mean AdoHcy decreased 96% and the AdoMet:AdoHcy concentration ratio improved from 0.52 ± 0.19 to 1.48 ± 0.79 mol:mol (control 4.10 ± 2.11 mol:mol). Blood methionine and AdoMet were normal and stable during 6 months of follow-up on an unrestricted diet. Average calculated tissue methyltransferase activity increased from 43 ± 26% to 60 ± 22%, accompanied by signs of increased transmethylation in vivo. Factor VII activity increased from 12% to 100%. During 6 postoperative months, head growth accelerated 4-fold and the patient made promising gains in gross motor, language, and social skills.
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Title: Fractures on bisphosphonates in osteoporosis pseudoglioma syndrome (OPPG): pQCT shows poor bone density and structure. Published: August 1, 2015 Publication: Bone

Authors: Streeten EA, Ramirez S, Eliades M, Jaimungal S, Chandrasekaran S, Kathleen R, Morton DH, Puffenberger EG, Herskovitz R, Leonard MB

Abstract:
Osteoporosis pseudoglioma syndrome (OPPG) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder of childhood osteoporosis and blindness due to inactivating mutations in LDL receptor-like protein 5 (LRP5). We and others have reported improvement in areal bone mineral density (aBMD) by DXA in OPPG on short term bisphosphonates. Long-term data on bisphosphonate use in OPPG and measures of volumetric BMD (vBMD) and cortical structure are not available. In addition, no long-term DXA data on untreated OPPG is available. The aims of this study were to: (1) record low trauma fractures and longitudinal aBMD by DXA in 5 OPPG patients on chronic bisphosphonate treatment, and in 4 OPPG patients never treated (2) to perform tibia peripheral quantitative CT (pQCT) to evaluate volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD), cortical structure and calf muscle area in 6 OPPG patients and 14 unaffected first degree family members. pQCT results were converted to sex-specific Z-scores for age and adjusted for tibia length based on data in >700 reference participants. We observed 4 fractures (3 femoral shafts) in 3 OPPG patients while on bisphosphonates, after each achieved significant improvement in aBMD. OPPG participants had significantly lower mean trabecular vBMD (-1.51 vs. 0.17, p = 0.002), cortical area (-2.36 vs. 0.37; p < 0.001) and periosteal circumference (-1.86 vs. -0.31, p = 0.001) Z-scores, compared with unaffected participants and had a trend toward lower muscle area Z-score (-0.69 vs. 0.47, p = 0.12). These data demonstrate substantial bone fragility despite improvements in aBMD. The pQCT data provide insight into the fragility with substantial deficits in trabecular vBMD and cortical dimensions, consistent with OPPG effects of bone formation. Treatment that improves bone quality is needed to reduce fractures in OPPG.
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Title: Rapamycin Prevents Seizures After Depletion of STRADA in a Rare Neurodevelopmental Disorder Published: April 24, 2013 Publication: Science Translational Medicine

Authors: Parker WE, Orlova KA, Parker, WH, Birnbaum JF, Krymskaya VP, Goncharov DA, Baybis M, Helfferich J, Okochi K, Strauss KA, Crino PB

Abstract:
A rare neurodevelopmental disorder in the Old Order Mennonite population called PMSE (polyhydramnios, megalencephaly, and symptomatic epilepsy syndrome; also called Pretzel syndrome) is characterized by infantile-onset epilepsy, neurocognitive delay, craniofacial dysmorphism, and histopathological evidence of heterotopic neurons in subcortical white matter and subependymal regions. PMSE is caused by a homozygous deletion of exons 9 to 13 of the LYK5/STRADA gene, which encodes the pseudokinase STRADA, an upstream inhibitor of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1). We show that disrupted pathfinding in migrating mouse neural progenitor cells in vitro caused by STRADA depletion is prevented by mTORC1 inhibition with rapamycin or inhibition of its downstream effector p70 S6 kinase (p70S6K) with the drug PF-4708671 (p70S6Ki). We demonstrate that rapamycin can rescue aberrant cortical lamination and heterotopia associated with STRADA depletion in the mouse cerebral cortex. Constitutive mTORC1 signaling and a migration defect observed in fibroblasts from patients with PMSE were also prevented by mTORC1 inhibition. On the basis of these preclinical findings, we treated five PMSE patients with sirolimus (rapamycin) without complication and observed a reduction in seizure frequency and an improvement in receptive language. Our findings demonstrate a mechanistic link between STRADA loss and mTORC1 hyperactivity in PMSE, and suggest that mTORC1 inhibition may be a potential treatment for PMSE as well as other mTOR-associated neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Title: Liver transplantation for classical maple syrup urine disease: long-term follow-up in 37 patients and comparative United Network for Organ Sharing experience Published: January 1, 2012 Publication: The Journal of Pediatrics

Authors: Mazariegos GV, Morton DH, Sindhi R, Soltys K, Nayyar N, Bond G, Shellmer D, Shneider B, Vockley J, Strauss KA

Abstract:
To assess clinical and neurocognitive function in children who have undergone liver transplantation for classical maple syrup urine disease (MSUD).
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Title: Safety, efficacy and physiological actions of a lysine-free, arginine-rich formula to treat glutaryl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency: focus on cerebral amino acid influx. Published: September 1, 2011 Publication: Molecular Genetics and Metabolism

Authors: Strauss KA, Brumbaugh J, Duffy A, Wardley B, Robinson D, Hendrickson C, Tortorelli S, Moser AB, Puffenberger EG, Rider NL, Morton DH

Abstract:
Striatal degeneration from glutaryl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (glutaric aciduria type 1, GA1) is associated with cerebral formation and entrapment of glutaryl-CoA and its derivatives that depend on cerebral lysine influx. In 2006 we designed a lysine-free study formula enriched with arginine to selectively block lysine transport across cerebral endothelia and thereby limit glutaryl-CoA production by brain. Between 2006 and present, we treated twelve consecutive children with study formula (LYSx group) while holding all other treatment practices constant. Clinical and biochemical outcomes were compared to 25 GA1 patients (PROx group) treated between 1995 and 2005 with natural protein restriction (dietary lysine/arginine ratio of 1.7±0.3 mg:mg). We used published kinetic parameters of the y+and LAT1 blood-brain barrier transporters to model the influx of amino acids into the brain. Arginine fortification to achieve a mean dietary lysine/arginine ratio of 0.7±0.2 mg:mg was neuroprotective. All 12 LYSx patients are physically and neurologically healthy after 28 aggregate patient-years of follow up (current ages 28±21 months) and there were no adverse events related to formula use. This represents a 36% reduction of neurological risk (95% confidence interval 14-52%, p=0.018) that we can directly attribute to altered amino acid intake. During the first year of life, 20% lower lysine intake and two-fold higher arginine intake by LYSx patients were associated with 50% lower plasma lysine, 3-fold lower plasma lysine/arginine concentration ratio, 42% lower mean calculated cerebral lysine influx, 54% higher calculated cerebral arginine influx, 15-26% higher calculated cerebral influx of several anaplerotic precursors (isoleucine, threonine, methionine, and leucine), 50% less 3-hydroxyglutarate excretion, and a 3-fold lower hospitalization rate (0.8 versus 2.3 hospitalizations per patient per year). The relationship between arginine fortification and plasma lysine indicates that transport competition exists at both cerebrovascular and gastrointestinal barriers, suggesting their co-administration is key to efficacy. Monitoring the ratio between lysine and arginine in diet and plasma may prove a useful strategy for treating children with GA1.
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Title: Contemporary management of congenital malformations of the heart in infants with Ellis – van Creveld syndrome: a report of nine cases Published: April 1, 2011 Publication: Cardiology in the Young

Authors: O’Connor MJ, Rider NL, Thomas Collins R, Hanna BD, Holmes Morton D, Strauss KA

Abstract:
Ellis - van Creveld syndrome is an autosomal recessive disorder manifest by short-limb dwarfism, thoracic dystrophy, postaxial polydactyly, dysplastic nails and teeth, and an approximately 60% incidence of congenital malformations of the heart. Despite patients with Ellis - van Creveld syndrome being regarded as having a high surgical risk, few data are available regarding their outcomes following surgery for congenital malformations of the heart in the current era.
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Title: Cognitive and adaptive functioning after liver transplantation for maple syrup urine disease: a case series Published: February 1, 2011 Publication: Pediatric Transplantation

Authors: Shellmer DA, DeVito Dabbs A, Dew MA, Noll RB, Feldman H, Strauss KA, Morton DH, Vockley J, Mazariegos GV

Abstract:
MSUD is a complex metabolic disorder that has been associated with central nervous system damage, developmental delays, and neurocognitive deficits. Although liver transplantation provides a metabolic cure for MSUD, changes in cognitive and adaptive functioning following transplantation have not been investigated. In this report we present data from 14 patients who completed cognitive and adaptive functioning testing pre- and one year and/or three years postliver transplantation. Findings show either no significant change or improvement in IQ scores preto post-liver transplantation. Greater variability was observed in adaptive functioning scores, but the majority of patients evidenced either no significant change or improvement in adaptive scores. In general, findings may indicate that liver transplantation curtails additional central nervous system damage and neurocognitive decline providing an opportunity for stabilization or improvement in functioning.
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Title: Classical maple syrup urine disease and brain development: principles of management and formula design Published: April 1, 2010 Publication: Molecular Genetics and Metabolism

Authors: Strauss KA, Wardley B, Robinson D, Hendrickson C, Rider NL, Puffenberger EG, Shellmer D, Moser AB, Morton DH

Abstract:
Branched-chain ketoacid dehydrogenase deficiency results in complex and volatile metabolic derangements that threaten brain development. Treatment for classical maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) should address this underlying physiology while also protecting children from nutrient deficiencies. Based on a 20-year experience managing 79 patients, we designed a study formula to (1) optimize transport of seven amino acids (Tyr, Trp, His, Met, Thr, Gln, Phe) that compete with branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) for entry into the brain via a common transporter (LAT1), (2) compensate for episodic depletions of glutamine, glutamate, and alanine caused by reverse transamination, and (3) correct deficiencies of omega-3 essential fatty acids, zinc, and selenium widespread among MSUD patients. The formula was enriched with LAT1 amino acid substrates, glutamine, alanine, zinc, selenium, and alpha-linolenic acid (18:3n-3). Fifteen Old Order Mennonite children were started on study formula between birth and 34 months of age and seen at least monthly in the office. Amino acid levels were checked once weekly and more often during illnesses. All children grew and developed normally over a period of 14-33 months. Energy demand, leucine tolerance, and protein accretion were tightly linked during periods of normal growth. Rapid shifts to net protein degradation occurred during illnesses. At baseline, most LAT1 substrates varied inversely with plasma leucine, and their calculated rates of brain uptake were 20-68% below normal. Treatment with study formula increased plasma concentrations of LAT1 substrates and normalized their calculated uptakes into the nervous system. Red cell membrane omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and serum zinc and selenium levels increased on study formula. However, selenium and docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n-3) levels remained below normal. During the study period, hospitalizations decreased from 0.35 to 0.14 per patient per year. There were 28 hospitalizations managed with MSUD hyperalimentation solution; 86% were precipitated by common infections, especially vomiting and gastroenteritis. The large majority of catabolic illnesses were managed successfully at home using 'sick-day' formula and frequent amino acid monitoring. We conclude that the study formula is safe and effective for the treatment of classical MSUD. In principle, dietary enrichment protects the brain against deficiency of amino acids used for protein accretion, neurotransmitter synthesis, and methyl group transfer. Although the pathophysiology of MSUD can be addressed through rational formula design, this does not replace the need for vigilant clinical monitoring, frequent measurement of the complete amino acid profile, and ongoing dietary adjustments that match nutritional intake to the metabolic demands of growth and illness.
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Title: Prevention of brain disease from severe 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase deficiency Published: June 1, 2007 Publication: Molecular Genetics and Metabolism

Authors: Strauss KA, Morton DH, Puffenberger EG, Hendrickson C, Robinson DL, Wagner C, Stabler SP, Allen RH, Chwatko G, Jakubowski H, Niculescu MD, Mudd SH

Abstract:
Over a four-year period, we collected clinical and biochemical data from five Amish children who were homozygous for missense mutations in 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR c.1129C>T). The four oldest patients had irreversible brain damage prior to diagnosis. The youngest child, diagnosed and started on betaine therapy as a newborn, is healthy at her present age of three years. We compared biochemical data among four groups: 16 control subjects, eight heterozygous parents, and five affected children (for the latter group, both before and during treatment with betaine anhydrous). Plasma amino acid concentrations were used to estimate changes in cerebral methionine uptake resulting from betaine therapy. In all affected children, treatment with betaine (534+/-222 mg/kg/day) increased plasma S-adenosylmethionine, improved markers of tissue methyltransferase activity, and resulted in a threefold increase of calculated brain methionine uptake. Betaine therapy did not normalize plasma total homocysteine, nor did it correct cerebral 5-methyltetrahydrofolate deficiency. We conclude that when the 5-methyltetrahydrofolate content of brain tissue is low, dietary betaine sufficient to increase brain methionine uptake may compensate for impaired cerebral methionine recycling. To effectively support the metabolic requirements of rapid brain growth, a large dose of betaine should be started early in life.
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Title: Management of hyperbilirubinemia and prevention of kernicterus in 20 patients with Crigler-Najjar disease Published: May 1, 2006 Publication: European Journal of Pediatrics

Authors: Strauss KA, Robinson DL, Vreman HJ, Puffenberger EG, Hart G, Morton DH

Abstract:
We summarize the treatment of 20 patients with Crigler-Najjar disease (CND) managed at one center from 1989 to 2005 (200 patient-years). Diagnosis was confirmed by sequencing the UGTA1A gene. Nineteen patients had a severe (type 1) phenotype. Major treatment goals were to maintain the bilirubin to albumin concentration ratio at <0.5 in neonates and <0.7 in older children and adults, to avoid drugs known to displace bilirubin from albumin, and to manage temporary exacerbations of hyperbilirubinemia caused by illness or gallstones. A variety of phototherapy systems provided high irradiance over a large body surface. Mean total bilirubin for the group was 16+/-5 mg/dl and increased with age by approximately 0.8 mg/dl per year. The molar ratio of bilirubin to albumin ranged from 0.17 to 0.75 (mean: 0.44). The overall non-surgical hospitalization rate was 0.12 hospitalizations per patient per year; one-half of these were for neonatal hyperbilirubinemia and the remainder were for infectious illnesses. Ten patients (50%) underwent elective laproscopic cholecystectomy for cholelithiasis. No patient required invasive bilirubin removal or developed bilirubin-induced neurological damage under our care. Visual acuity and color discrimination did not differ between CND patients and age-matched sibling controls. Four patients treated with orthotopic liver transplantation were effectively cured of CND, although one suffered significant transplant-related complications.Conclusions. While patients await liver transplantation for CND, hyperbilirubinemia can be managed safely and effectively to prevent kernicterus. Lessons learned from CND can be applied to screening and therapy of non-hemolytic jaundice in otherwise healthy newborns.
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Title: Elective liver transplantation for the treatment of classical maple syrup urine disease Published: March 1, 2006 Publication: American Journal of Transplantation

Authors: Strauss KA, Mazariegos GV, Sindhi R, Squires R, Finegold DN, Vockley G, Robinson DL, Hendrickson C, Virji M, Cropcho L, Puffenberger EG, McGhee W, Seward LM, Morton DH

Abstract:
An 8.5-year-old girl with classical maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) required liver transplantation for hypervitaminosis A and was effectively cured of MSUD over an 8-year clinical follow-up period. We developed a collaborative multidisciplinary effort to evaluate the effects of elective liver transplantation in 10 additional children (age range 1.9–20.5 years) with classical MSUD. Patients were transplanted with whole cadaveric livers under a protocol designed to optimize safe pre- and post-transplant management of MSUD. All patients are alive and well with normal allograft function after 106 months of follow-up in the index patient and a median follow-up period of 14 months (range 4–18 months) in the 10 remaining patients. Leucine, isoleucine and valine levels stabilized within 6 hours post-transplant and remained so on an unrestricted protein intake in all patients. Metabolic cure was documented as a sustained increase in weight-adjusted leucine tolerance, normalization of plasma concentration relationships among branched-chain and other essential and nonessential amino acids, and metabolic and clinical stability during protein loading and intercurrent illnesses. Costs and risks associated with surgery and immune suppression were similar to other pediatric liver transplant populations.
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Title: Maintenance treatment of glutaryl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency Published: January 1, 2004 Publication: Journal of Inherited Metabolic Disease

Authors: Mühlhausen C, Hoffmann GF, Strauss KA, Kölker S, Okun JG, Greenberg CR, Naughten ER, Ullrich K

Abstract:
This paper summarizes the published experience as well as results of the 3rd International Workshop on Glutaryl-CoA Dehydrogenase Deficiency held in October 2003 in Heidelberg, Germany, on the topic treatment of patients with glutaryl-CoA dehydrogenase (GCDH) deficiency. So far no international recommendation for treatment of GCDH deficiency exists. Such an approach is hampered by several facts, namely the lack of an in-depth understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease, the lack of prospective studies, including the evaluation of drug monotherapy, and lack of objective documentation of clinical changes (e.g. video documentation) during pharmacotherapy.
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Title: Tyrosine supplementation in phenylketonuria: diurnal blood tyrosine levels and presumptive brain influx of tyrosine and other large neutral amino acids Published: September 1, 2001 Publication: The Journal of Pediatrics

Authors: Kalsner LR, Rohr FJ, Strauss KA, Korson MS, Levy HL

Abstract:
Tyrosine supplementation has not consistently been found to improve neuropsychologic function in phenylketonuria (PKU), possibly because of failure to achieve adequate levels of tyrosine in the brain.
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Title: Abnormal hepatic sinusoidal bile acid transport in an Amish kindred is not linked to FIC1 and is improved by ursodiol Published: July 1, 2000 Publication: Gastroenterology

Authors: Morton DH, Salen G, Batta AK, Shefer S, Tint GS, Belchis D, Shneider B, Puffenberger E, Bull L, Knisely AS

Abstract:
The mechanism for abnormal hepatic bile acid transport was investigated in an 18-month-old Amish boy who presented with pruritus, poor growth, and severe bleeding episodes. Serum bilirubin, gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase, and cholesterol levels were normal, but prothrombin time and partial thromboplastin time were prolonged and bone alkaline phosphatase level was elevated.
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Title: Diagnosis and management of glutaric aciduria type I Published: June 1, 1998 Publication: Journal of Inherited Metabolic Disease

Authors: Baric I, Zschocke J, Christensen E, Duran M, Goodman SI, Leonard JV, Müller E, Morton DH, Superti-Furga A, Hoffmann GF

Abstract:
Glutaric aciduria type I (GA1) is a preventable cause of acute brain damage in early childhood, leading to a severe dystonic-dyskinetic disorder that is similar to cerebral palsy and ranges from extreme hypotonia to choreoathetosis to rigidity with spasticity. Degeneration of the putamen and caudate typically occurs between 6 and 18 months of age and is probably linked to changes in metabolic demand caused by normal maturational changes and superimposed catabolic stress. Recognition of this biochemical disorder before the brain has been injured is essential to outcome. Diagnosis depends upon the recognition of relatively non-specific physical findings such as hypotonia, irritability and macrocephaly, and on performance of urine organic acid quantification by gas chromatography--mass spectrometry or selective searches of urine or blood specimens by tandem mass spectrometry for glutarylcarnitine. The diagnosis may also be suggested by characteristic findings on neuroimaging. In selected patients diagnosis can only be reached by enzyme assay. Specific current management by the authors of this paper includes pharmacological doses of L-carnitine, as well as dietary protein restriction. Metabolic decompensation must be treated aggressively to avoid permanent brain damage. Multicentre studies are needed to establish best methods of diagnosis and optimal therapy of this disorder.
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