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Italian Journal of Pediatrics Apr 2021The existing treatment options for neonatal seizures have expanded over the last few decades, but no consensus has been reached regarding the optimal therapeutic...
AIM
The existing treatment options for neonatal seizures have expanded over the last few decades, but no consensus has been reached regarding the optimal therapeutic protocols. We systematically reviewed the available literature examining neonatal seizure treatments to clarify which drugs are the most effective for the treatment of specific neurologic disorders in newborns.
METHOD
We reviewed all available, published, literature, identified using PubMed (published between August 1949 and November 2020), that focused on the pharmacological treatment of electroencephalogram (EEG)-confirmed neonatal seizures.
RESULTS
Our search identified 427 articles, of which 67 were included in this review. Current knowledge allowed us to highlight the good clinical and electrographic responses of genetic early-onset epilepsies to sodium channel blockers and the overall good response to levetiracetam, whose administration has also been demonstrated to be safe in both full-term and preterm newborns.
INTERPRETATION
Our work contributes by confirming the limited availability of evidence that can be used to guide the use of anticonvulsants to treat newborns in clinical practice and examining the efficacy and potentially harmful side effects of currently available drugs when used to treat the developing newborn brain; therefore, our work might also serve as a clinical reference for future studies.
Topics: Anticonvulsants; Channelopathies; Humans; Hypoxia-Ischemia, Brain; Infant, Newborn; Seizures; Sodium Potassium Chloride Symporter Inhibitors; Stroke
PubMed: 33827647
DOI: 10.1186/s13052-021-01027-2 -
Neurological Sciences : Official... Apr 2021Movement disorders have been described in the context of different types of encephalitis. Among hyperkinetic manifestations, tics have sporadically been reported in... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Movement disorders have been described in the context of different types of encephalitis. Among hyperkinetic manifestations, tics have sporadically been reported in cases of encephalitis resulting from a range of aetiologies.
OBJECTIVE
This review aimed to assess the prevalence and characteristics of tics in patients with encephalitis.
METHODS
We conducted a systematic literature review of original studies on the major scientific databases, according to the standards outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.
RESULTS
In addition to the established association between tics and encephalitis lethargica, our literature search identified reports of tics in patients with immune-mediated pathologies (including autoimmune encephalitides affecting the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor, voltage-gated potassium channels, and glycine receptors) and infective processes (ranging from relatively common viral pathogens, such as herpes simplex, to prions, as in Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease). Tics were most commonly reported in the post-encephalitic period and involvement of the basal ganglia was frequently observed.
DISCUSSION
The association of new-onset tics and encephalitis, in the background of other neuropsychiatric abnormalities, has practical implications, potentially improving the detection of encephalitis based on clinical features. Future research should focus on the categorisation and treatment of hyperkinetic movement disorders associated with encephalitis.
Topics: Basal Ganglia; Encephalitis; Humans; Tic Disorders; Tics; Tourette Syndrome
PubMed: 33486621
DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05065-w -
Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery Jan 2021To conduct a systematic review of the available literature for primary research articles identifying potential gene mutations, polymorphisms and other molecular...
OBJECTIVE
To conduct a systematic review of the available literature for primary research articles identifying potential gene mutations, polymorphisms and other molecular regulatory mechanisms related to trigeminal neuralgia in order to identify the genetic and molecular models of primary trigeminal neuralgia currently being investigated.
METHODS
PubMed and Web of Science were systematically searched to identify primary research articles discussing genetic predictors of trigeminal neuralgia and neuropathic pain that were published prior to July 2020. This review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines.
RESULTS
Out of the 333 articles originally identified, a total of 14 papers were selected for study inclusion. These articles included 5 human studies, 6 mouse studies and 3 rat studies. Four articles investigated sodium channels, 1 investigated a sodium channel and nerve growth factor receptor, 2 investigated potassium channels, 1 investigated calcium channels, 1 investigated the downstream regulatory element antagonist modulator protein, 1 investigated the dynorphin-kappa opioid receptor system, 1 investigated TRPA1, 1 investigated the Nrg1/ErbB3/ErbB2 signaling complex, 1 investigated a serotonin transporter and 1 investigated potassium channels, sodium channels, calcium channels, chloride channels, TRP channels and gap junctions.
CONCLUSION
Researchers have identified multiple genetic and molecular targets involved with potential pathophysiologies that have a relationship to the creation of trigeminal neuralgia. At this time, there does not seem to be clear causal frontrunner, demonstrating the possibility that genetic predisposition to trigeminal neuralgia may involve multiple genes and/or downstream products, such as ion channels.
Topics: Animals; Genetic Predisposition to Disease; Humans; Ion Channels; Neuralgia; Polymorphism, Genetic; Trigeminal Neuralgia
PubMed: 33338828
DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2020.106397 -
American Journal of Physiology. Cell... Apr 2021Several potassium channels (KCs) have been described throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Notwithstanding, their contribution to both physiologic and pathophysiologic...
Several potassium channels (KCs) have been described throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Notwithstanding, their contribution to both physiologic and pathophysiologic conditions, as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), remains underexplored. Therefore, we aim to systematically review, for the first time, the evidence on the characteristics and modulation of KCs in intestinal epithelial cells (IECs). PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched to identify studies focusing on KCs and their modulation in IECs. The included studies were assessed using a reporting inclusiveness checklist. From the 745 identified records, 73 met the inclusion criteria; their reporting inclusiveness was moderate-high. Some studies described the physiological role of KCs, while others explored their importance in pathological settings. Globally, in IBD animal models, apical K1.1 channels, responsible for luminal secretion, were upregulated. In human colonocytes, basolateral K3.1 channels were downregulated. The pharmacological inhibition of K and K influenced intestinal barrier function, promoting inflammation. Evidence suggests a strong association between KCs expression and secretory mechanisms in human and animal IECs. Further research is warranted to explore the usefulness of KC pharmacological modulation as a therapeutic target.
Topics: Animals; Cell Line; Epithelial Cells; Humans; Intestinal Mucosa; Membrane Potentials; Potassium Channel Blockers; Potassium Channels; Signal Transduction
PubMed: 33326312
DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00393.2020 -
Phytomedicine : International Journal... Jan 2021Epilepsy affects more than 65 million people worldwide. Treatment for epileptic seizures is ineffective and has many adverse effects. For this reason, the search for new...
BACKGROUND
Epilepsy affects more than 65 million people worldwide. Treatment for epileptic seizures is ineffective and has many adverse effects. For this reason, the search for new therapeutic options capable of filling these limitations is necessary.
HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE
In this sense, natural products, such as monoterpenes, have been indicated as a new option to control neurological disorders such as epilepsy.
STUDY DESIGN
Therefore, the objective of this study was to review the monoterpenes that have anticonvulsive activity in animal models.
METHODS
The searches were performed in the PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus databases in September, 2020 and compiled studies using monoterpenes as an alternative to seizure. Two independent reviewers performed the study selection, data extraction and methodological quality assessment using the Syrcle tool.
RESULTS
51 articles that described the anticonvulsant activity of 35 monoterpenes were selected with action on the main pharmacological target, including GABAA receptors, glutamate, calcium channels, sodium and potassium. In addition, these compounds are capable of reducing neuronal inflammation and oxidative stress caused by seizure.
CONCLUSION
These compounds stand out as a promising alternative for acting through different pharmacological mechanisms, which may not only reduce seizure, but also promote neuroprotective effect by reducing toxicity in brain regions. However, further studies are needed to determine the mechanism of action and safety assessment of these compounds.
Topics: Animals; Anticonvulsants; Brain; Humans; Monoterpenes; Neuroprotective Agents; Seizures
PubMed: 33310306
DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2020.153422 -
The Cochrane Database of Systematic... Oct 2020Treatment with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB) is used to reduce proteinuria and retard the progression of... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
Treatment with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB) is used to reduce proteinuria and retard the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, resolution of proteinuria may be incomplete with these therapies and the addition of an aldosterone antagonist may be added to further prevent progression of CKD. This is an update of a Cochrane review first published in 2009 and updated in 2014.
OBJECTIVES
To evaluate the effects of aldosterone antagonists (selective (eplerenone), non-selective (spironolactone or canrenone), or non-steroidal mineralocorticoid antagonists (finerenone)) in adults who have CKD with proteinuria (nephrotic and non-nephrotic range) on: patient-centred endpoints including kidney failure (previously know as end-stage kidney disease (ESKD)), major cardiovascular events, and death (any cause); kidney function (proteinuria, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and doubling of serum creatinine); blood pressure; and adverse events (including hyperkalaemia, acute kidney injury, and gynaecomastia).
SEARCH METHODS
We searched the Cochrane Kidney and Transplant Register of Studies up to 13 January 2020 through contact with the Information Specialist using search terms relevant to this review. Studies in the Register are identified through searches of CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and EMBASE, conference proceedings, the International Clinical Trials Register (ICTRP) Search Portal, and ClinicalTrials.gov.
SELECTION CRITERIA
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs that compared aldosterone antagonists in combination with ACEi or ARB (or both) to other anti-hypertensive strategies or placebo in participants with proteinuric CKD.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
Two authors independently assessed study quality and extracted data. Data were summarised using random effects meta-analysis. We expressed summary treatment estimates as a risk ratio (RR) for dichotomous outcomes and mean difference (MD) for continuous outcomes, or standardised mean difference (SMD) when different scales were used together with their 95% confidence interval (CI). Risk of bias were assessed using the Cochrane tool. Evidence certainty was evaluated using GRADE.
MAIN RESULTS
Forty-four studies (5745 participants) were included. Risk of bias in the evaluated methodological domains were unclear or high risk in most studies. Adequate random sequence generation was present in 12 studies, allocation concealment in five studies, blinding of participant and investigators in 18 studies, blinding of outcome assessment in 15 studies, and complete outcome reporting in 24 studies. All studies comparing aldosterone antagonists to placebo or standard care were used in addition to an ACEi or ARB (or both). None of the studies were powered to detect differences in patient-level outcomes including kidney failure, major cardiovascular events or death. Aldosterone antagonists had uncertain effects on kidney failure (2 studies, 84 participants: RR 3.00, 95% CI 0.33 to 27.65, I² = 0%; very low certainty evidence), death (3 studies, 421 participants: RR 0.58, 95% CI 0.10 to 3.50, I² = 0%; low certainty evidence), and cardiovascular events (3 studies, 1067 participants: RR 0.95, 95% CI 0.26 to 3.56; I² = 42%; low certainty evidence) compared to placebo or standard care. Aldosterone antagonists may reduce protein excretion (14 studies, 1193 participants: SMD -0.51, 95% CI -0.82 to -0.20, I² = 82%; very low certainty evidence), eGFR (13 studies, 1165 participants, MD -3.00 mL/min/1.73 m², 95% CI -5.51 to -0.49, I² = 0%, low certainty evidence) and systolic blood pressure (14 studies, 911 participants: MD -4.98 mmHg, 95% CI -8.22 to -1.75, I² = 87%; very low certainty evidence) compared to placebo or standard care. Aldosterone antagonists probably increase the risk of hyperkalaemia (17 studies, 3001 participants: RR 2.17, 95% CI 1.47 to 3.22, I² = 0%; moderate certainty evidence), acute kidney injury (5 studies, 1446 participants: RR 2.04, 95% CI 1.05 to 3.97, I² = 0%; moderate certainty evidence), and gynaecomastia (4 studies, 281 participants: RR 5.14, 95% CI 1.14 to 23.23, I² = 0%; moderate certainty evidence) compared to placebo or standard care. Non-selective aldosterone antagonists plus ACEi or ARB had uncertain effects on protein excretion (2 studies, 139 participants: SMD -1.59, 95% CI -3.80 to 0.62, I² = 93%; very low certainty evidence) but may increase serum potassium (2 studies, 121 participants: MD 0.31 mEq/L, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.45, I² = 0%; low certainty evidence) compared to diuretics plus ACEi or ARB. Selective aldosterone antagonists may increase the risk of hyperkalaemia (2 studies, 500 participants: RR 1.62, 95% CI 0.66 to 3.95, I² = 0%; low certainty evidence) compared ACEi or ARB (or both). There were insufficient studies to perform meta-analyses for the comparison between non-selective aldosterone antagonists and calcium channel blockers, selective aldosterone antagonists plus ACEi or ARB (or both) and nitrate plus ACEi or ARB (or both), and non-steroidal mineralocorticoid antagonists and selective aldosterone antagonists.
AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS
The effects of aldosterone antagonists when added to ACEi or ARB (or both) on the risks of death, major cardiovascular events, and kidney failure in people with proteinuric CKD are uncertain. Aldosterone antagonists may reduce proteinuria, eGFR, and systolic blood pressure in adults who have mild to moderate CKD but may increase the risk of hyperkalaemia, acute kidney injury and gynaecomastia when added to ACEi and/or ARB.
Topics: Angiotensin Receptor Antagonists; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors; Bias; Calcium Channel Blockers; Canrenone; Disease Progression; Eplerenone; Humans; Hyperkalemia; Kidney Failure, Chronic; Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonists; Naphthyridines; Proteinuria; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Spironolactone
PubMed: 33107592
DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD007004.pub4 -
Revista de Neurologia Nov 2020Hypokalemic periodic paralysis is a neuromuscular disease characterized by a combination of flaccid paralysis episodes (or muscular weakness) that are related to low...
INTRODUCTION
Hypokalemic periodic paralysis is a neuromuscular disease characterized by a combination of flaccid paralysis episodes (or muscular weakness) that are related to low levels of potassium in blood. As a consequence of its low prevalence, there are still clinical and management aspects to characterize.
PATIENTS AND METHODS
A systematic review of the clinical cases published in the last decade has been developed by analyzing demographic and genetic features, the episodes' characteristics, the received treatments, the response to them and also, the differences and evolution of patients depending on the most prevalent genetic alterations: CACNA1S and SCN4A.
RESULTS
A total of 33 articles were included, allowing 40 individuals to be reviewed. The average age of onset of symptoms was 15.3 ± 9.7 years. The most frequent altered gene was CACNA1S in 20 (60.5%) cases. It was observed that subjects presenting an alteration of the gene responsible for the calcium channel, CACNA1S, presented lower serum potassium levels, own triggers and a higher proportion of subjects showing dyspnea during the crisis. Only 50% of the subjects respond to classical oral treatment with acetazolamide. Potassium-sparing diuretics and antiepileptics drugs emerge as an alternative.
CONCLUSION
Hypokalemic periodic paralysis has an heterogeneous clinical expression with phenotypic differences linked to different genetic mutations. The common preventive treatment response is suboptimal. Prospective studies are needed to discern the best therapeutic option based on genetic load.
Topics: Acetazolamide; Age of Onset; Calcium Channels, L-Type; Gene Frequency; Humans; Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis; NAV1.4 Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel; Potassium
PubMed: 33085076
DOI: 10.33588/rn.7109.2020377 -
Journal of Diabetes Research 2020Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is observing an accelerating prevalence rate of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) influenced by gene-environment interaction of modifiable and... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
OBJECTIVES
Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is observing an accelerating prevalence rate of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) influenced by gene-environment interaction of modifiable and nonmodifiable factors. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis on the heritability and genetic risk of T2DM in SSA.
METHODS
We reviewed all published articles on T2DM in SSA between January 2000 and December 2019 and available in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Studies that reported on the genetics and/or heritability of T2DM or indicators of glycaemia were included. Data extracted included the study design, records of family history, pattern and characteristics of inheritance, genetic determinants, and effects estimates.
RESULTS
The pattern and characteristics of T2DM heritability in SSA are preference for maternal aggregation, higher among first degree compared to second-degree relatives; early age-onset (<50 years), and inherited abnormalities of beta-cell function/mass. The overall prevalence of T2DM was 28.2% for the population with a positive family history (PFH) and 11.2% for the population with negative family history (NFH). The pooled odds ratio of the impact of PFH on T2DM was 3.29 (95% CI: 2.40-4.52). Overall, 28 polymorphisms in 17 genes have been investigated in relation with T2DM in SSA. Almost all studies used the candidate gene approach with most (45.8%) of genetic studies published between 2011 and 2015. Polymorphisms in , , , , , , and were found to be associated with T2DM, with overlapping effect on specific cardiometabolic traits. Genome-wide studies identified ancestry-specific signals (, , and ) and as the only transferable genetic risk variants to SSA population. polymorphism was investigated in multiple studies with consistent effects and low-moderate statistical heterogeneity. Effect sizes were modestly strong [odds ratio = 6.17 (95% CI: 2.03-18.81), codominant model; 2.27 (95% CI: 1.50-3.44), additive model; 1.75 (95% CI: 1.18-2.59), recessive model]. Current evidence on the heritability and genetic markers of T2DM in SSA populations is limited and largely insufficient to reliably inform the genetic architecture of T2DM across SSA regions.
Topics: Adiponectin; Africa South of the Sahara; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Genetic Predisposition to Disease; Haptoglobins; Humans; Phosphoric Diester Hydrolases; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide; Potassium Channels, Inwardly Rectifying; Pyrophosphatases; Sulfonylurea Receptors; Transcription Factor 7-Like 2 Protein; Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha
PubMed: 32685554
DOI: 10.1155/2020/3198671 -
Frontiers in Genetics 2020Intellectual disability (ID) manifests prior to adulthood as severe limitations to intellectual function and adaptive behavior. The role of potassium channelopathies in...
Intellectual disability (ID) manifests prior to adulthood as severe limitations to intellectual function and adaptive behavior. The role of potassium channelopathies in ID is poorly understood. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between ID and potassium channelopathies. We hypothesized that potassium channelopathies are strongly associated with ID initiation, and that both gain- and loss-of-function mutations lead to ID. This systematic review explores the burden of potassium channelopathies, possible mechanisms, advancements using animal models, therapies, and existing gaps. The literature search encompassed both PubMed and Embase up to October 2019. A total of 75 articles describing 338 cases were included in this review. Nineteen channelopathies were identified, affecting the following genes: , and . Twelve of these genes presented both gain- and loss-of-function properties, three displayed gain-of-function only, three exhibited loss-of-function only, and one had unknown function. How gain- and loss-of-function mutations can both lead to ID remains largely unknown. We identified only a few animal studies that focused on the mechanisms of ID in relation to potassium channelopathies and some of the few available therapeutic options (channel openers or blockers) appear to offer limited efficacy. In conclusion, potassium channelopathies contribute to the initiation of ID in several instances and this review provides a comprehensive overview of which molecular players are involved in some of the most prominent disease phenotypes.
PubMed: 32655623
DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.00614 -
Pediatric Diabetes Sep 2020A precision medicine approach is used to improve treatment of patients with monogenic diabetes. Herein, we searched SU efficiency according to the genotype-phenotype...
OBJECTIVE
A precision medicine approach is used to improve treatment of patients with monogenic diabetes. Herein, we searched SU efficiency according to the genotype-phenotype correlation, dosage used, and side effects.
RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
Systematic review conducted according the PRISMA control criteria identifying relevant studies evaluating the in vivo and in vitro sensitivity of ATP-dependent potassium channels according to the characteristics of genetic mutation.
RESULTS
Hundred and three selected articles with complete data in 502 cases in whom 413 (82.3%) had mutations in KCNJ11 (#64) and 89 in ABCC8 (# 56). Successful transfer from insulin to SU was achieved in 91% and 86.5% patients, respectively, at a mean age of 36.5 months (0-63 years). Among patients with KCNJ11 and ABCC8 mutations 64 and 46 were associated with constant success, 5 and 5 to constant failure, and 10 and 4 to variable degrees of reported success rate, respectively. The glibenclamide dosage required for each genotype ranged from 0.017 to 2.8 mg/kg/day. Comparing both the in vivo and in vitro susceptibility results, some mutations appear more sensitive than others to sulfonylurea treatment. Side effects were reported in 17/103 of the included articles: mild gastrointestinal symptoms and hypoglycaemia were the most common. One premature patient had an ulcerative necrotizing enterocolitis which association with SU is difficult to ascertain.
CONCLUSIONS
Sulfonylureas are an effective treatment for monogenic diabetes due to KCNJ11 and ABCC8 genes mutations. The success of the treatment is conditioned by differences in pharmacogenetics, younger age, pharmacokinetics, compliance, and maximal dose used.
Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Child; Child, Preschool; Diabetes Mellitus; Female; Genetic Association Studies; Genotype; Humans; Hypoglycemic Agents; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Infant, Newborn, Diseases; Male; Middle Aged; Mutation; Pharmacogenomic Testing; Potassium Channels, Inwardly Rectifying; Sulfonylurea Compounds; Sulfonylurea Receptors; Young Adult
PubMed: 32418263
DOI: 10.1111/pedi.13041