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Frontiers in Neuroscience 2023Perivascular spaces have been involved in neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. Upon a certain size, these spaces can become visible on magnetic resonance...
OBJECTIVES
Perivascular spaces have been involved in neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. Upon a certain size, these spaces can become visible on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), referred to as enlarged perivascular spaces (EPVS) or MRI-visible perivascular spaces (MVPVS). However, the lack of systematic evidence on etiology and temporal dynamics of MVPVS hampers their diagnostic utility as MRI biomarker. Thus, the goal of this systematic review was to summarize potential etiologies and evolution of MVPVS.
METHODS
In a comprehensive literature search, out of 1,488 unique publications, 140 records assessing etiopathogenesis and dynamics of MVPVS were eligible for a qualitative summary. 6 records were included in a meta-analysis to assess the association between MVPVS and brain atrophy.
RESULTS
Four overarching and partly overlapping etiologies of MVPVS have been proposed: (1) Impairment of interstitial fluid circulation, (2) Spiral elongation of arteries, (3) Brain atrophy and/or perivascular myelin loss, and (4) Immune cell accumulation in the perivascular space. The meta-analysis in patients with neuroinflammatory diseases did not support an association between MVPVS and brain volume measures [R: -0.15 (95%-CI -0.40-0.11)]. Based on few and mostly small studies in tumefactive MVPVS and in vascular and neuroinflammatory diseases, temporal evolution of MVPVS is slow.
CONCLUSION
Collectively, this study provides high-grade evidence for MVPVS etiopathogenesis and temporal dynamics. Although several potential etiologies for MVPVS emergence have been proposed, they are only partially supported by data. Advanced MRI methods should be employed to further dissect etiopathogenesis and evolution of MVPVS. This can benefit their implementation as an imaging biomarker.
SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION
https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=346564, identifier CRD42022346564.
PubMed: 37065926
DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1038011 -
Journal of Central Nervous System... 2023Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD) is an uncommon neurological disease affecting the central nervous system (CNS). Numerous... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD) is an uncommon neurological disease affecting the central nervous system (CNS). Numerous neurological disorders, including multiple sclerosis (MS), neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), acute transverse myelitis (ATM), and MOGAD, have been reported following the COVID-19 infection during the current COVID-19 pandemic. On the other hand, it has been suggested that patients with MOGAD may be at greater risk for infection (particularly in the current pandemic).
OBJECTIVE
In this systematic review, we gathered separately 1) MOGAD cases following COVID-19 infection as well as 2) clinical course of patients with MOGAD infected with COVID-19 based on case reports/series.
METHODS
329 articles were collected from 4 databases. These articles were conducted from inception to March 1, 2022.
RESULTS
Following the screening, exclusion criteria were followed and eventually, 22 studies were included. In 18 studies, a mean ± SD time interval of 18.6 ± 14.9 days was observed between infection with COVID-19 and the onset of MOGAD symptoms. Symptoms were partially or completely recovered in a mean of 67 days of follow-up.Among 4 studies on MOGAD patients, the hospitalization rate was 25%, and 15% of patients were hospitalized in the intensive care unit (ICU).
CONCLUSION
Our systematic review demonstrated that following COVID-19 infection, there is a rare possibility of contracting MOGAD. Moreover, there is no clear consensus on the susceptibility of MOGAD patients to severe COVID-19. However, obtaining deterministic results requires studies with a larger sample size.
PubMed: 37008248
DOI: 10.1177/11795735231167869 -
International Journal of Environmental... Mar 2023Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory neurodegenerative disease mediated by autoimmune reactions against myelin proteins and gangliosides in the grey and... (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory neurodegenerative disease mediated by autoimmune reactions against myelin proteins and gangliosides in the grey and white matter of the brain and spinal cord. It is considered one of the most common neurological diseases of non-traumatic origin in young people, especially in women. Recent studies point to a possible association between MS and gut microbiota. Intestinal dysbiosis has been observed, as well as an alteration of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria, although clinical data remain scarce and inconclusive.
OBJECTIVE
To conduct a systematic review on the relationship between gut microbiota and multiple sclerosis.
METHOD
The systematic review was conducted in the first quarter of 2022. The articles included were selected and compiled from different electronic databases: PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Proquest, Cochrane, and CINAHL. The keywords used in the search were: "multiple sclerosis", "gut microbiota", and "microbiome".
RESULTS
12 articles were selected for the systematic review. Among the studies that analysed alpha and beta diversity, only three found significant differences with respect to the control. In terms of taxonomy, the data are contradictory, but confirm an alteration of the microbiota marked by a decrease in Firmicutes, Lachnospiraceae, , , , , , , , and and an increase in Bacteroidetes, , , and . As for short-chain fatty acids, in general, a decrease in short-chain fatty acids, in particular butyrate, was observed.
CONCLUSIONS
Gut microbiota dysbiosis was found in multiple sclerosis patients compared to controls. Most of the altered bacteria are short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing, which could explain the chronic inflammation that characterises this disease. Therefore, future studies should consider the characterisation and manipulation of the multiple sclerosis-associated microbiome as a focus of both diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Topics: Humans; Female; Adolescent; Dysbiosis; Neurodegenerative Diseases; Sclerosis; Microbiota; Fatty Acids, Volatile; Multiple Sclerosis; Bacteria
PubMed: 36901634
DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20054624 -
Journal of Clinical Medicine Feb 2023Critically sized nerve defects cause devastating life-long disabilities and require interposition for reconstruction. Additional local application of mesenchymal stem...
Critically sized nerve defects cause devastating life-long disabilities and require interposition for reconstruction. Additional local application of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is considered promising to enhance peripheral nerve regeneration. To better understand the role of MSCs in peripheral nerve reconstruction, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of MSCs on critically sized segment nerve defects in preclinical studies. 5146 articles were screened following PRISMA guidelines using PubMed and Web of Science. A total of 27 preclinical studies (n = 722 rats) were included in the meta-analysis. The mean difference or the standardized mean difference with 95% confidence intervals for motor function, conduction velocity, and histomorphological parameters of nerve regeneration, as well as the degree of muscle atrophy, was compared in rats with critically sized defects and autologous nerve reconstruction treated with or without MSCs. The co-transplantation of MSCs increased the sciatic functional index (3.93, 95% CI 2.62 to 5.24, < 0.00001) and nerve conduction velocity recovery (1.49, 95% CI 1.13 to 1.84, = 0.009), decreased the atrophy of targeted muscles (gastrocnemius: 0.63, 95% CI 0.29 to 0.97 = 0.004; triceps surae: 0.08, 95% CI 0.06 to 0.10 = 0.71), and promoted the regeneration of injured axons (axon number: 1.10, 95% CI 0.78 to 1.42, < 0.00001; myelin sheath thickness: 0.15, 95% CI 0.12 to 0.17, = 0.28). Reconstruction of critically sized peripheral nerve defects is often hindered by impaired postoperative regeneration, especially in defects that require an autologous nerve graft. This meta-analysis indicates that additional application of MSC can enhance postoperative peripheral nerve regeneration in rats. Based on the promising results in vivo experiments, further studies are needed to demonstrate potential clinical benefits.
PubMed: 36835844
DOI: 10.3390/jcm12041306 -
Brain Sciences Jan 2023(1) Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune system disease in which myelin in the nervous system is affected. This abnormal immune system mechanism causes... (Review)
Review
(1) Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune system disease in which myelin in the nervous system is affected. This abnormal immune system mechanism causes physical disabilities and cognitive impairment. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is a common neuroimaging technique used in studying MS. Computational methods have recently been applied for disease detection, notably graph theory, which helps researchers understand the entire brain network and functional connectivity. (2) Methods: Relevant databases were searched to identify articles published since 2000 that applied graph theory to study functional brain connectivity in patients with MS based on fMRI. (3) Results: A total of 24 articles were included in the review. In recent years, the application of graph theory in the MS field received increased attention from computational scientists. The graph-theoretical approach was frequently combined with fMRI in studies of functional brain connectivity in MS. Lower EDSSs of MS stage were the criteria for most of the studies (4) Conclusions: This review provides insights into the role of graph theory as a computational method for studying functional brain connectivity in MS. Graph theory is useful in the detection and prediction of MS and can play a significant role in identifying cognitive impairment associated with MS.
PubMed: 36831789
DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13020246 -
Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology Apr 2023In this review we systematically summarize the effects of progesterone and synthetic progestins on neurogenesis, synaptogenesis, myelination and six neurotransmitter...
In this review we systematically summarize the effects of progesterone and synthetic progestins on neurogenesis, synaptogenesis, myelination and six neurotransmitter systems. Several parallels between progesterone and older generation progestin actions emerged, suggesting actions via progesterone receptors. However, existing results suggest a general lack of knowledge regarding the effects of currently used progestins in hormonal contraception regarding these cellular and molecular brain parameters. Human neuroimaging studies were reviewed with a focus on randomized placebo-controlled trials and cross-sectional studies controlling for progestin type. The prefrontal cortex, amygdala, salience network and hippocampus were identified as regions of interest for future preclinical studies. This review proposes a series of experiments to elucidate the cellular and molecular actions of contraceptive progestins in these areas and link these actions to behavioral markers of emotional and cognitive functioning. Emotional effects of contraceptive progestins appear to be related to 1) alterations in the serotonergic system, 2) direct/indirect modulations of inhibitory GABA-ergic signalling via effects on the allopregnanolone content of the brain, which differ between androgenic and anti-androgenic progestins. Cognitive effects of combined oral contraceptives appear to depend on the ethinylestradiol dose.
Topics: Animals; Humans; Progestins; Progesterone; Contraceptive Agents; Cross-Sectional Studies; Progesterone Congeners; Brain
PubMed: 36758768
DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2023.101060 -
Journal of Clinical Rheumatology :... Apr 2023During the last years, a growing number of studies have investigated the link between cognitive dysfunction and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), highlighting the potential...
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES
During the last years, a growing number of studies have investigated the link between cognitive dysfunction and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), highlighting the potential pathogenic role of several clinical, psychological, and biological factors. We aimed to investigate serological and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers in humans and its association with cognitive dysfunction in patients with RA.
METHODS
We performed a systematic review using PRISMA (Preferred Reported Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis) protocol. A systematic search was conducted in the PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases from inception up to November 2021. The inclusion criteria for studies were defined based on the participants involved, type of exposure, type of comparison group, outcome of interest, and study design.
RESULTS
Five original studies were included, which provided data from 428 participants. Among plasma proteins, SHH was increased and TTR was reduced in patients with mild cognitive impairment; anti-myelin basic protein and anti-myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein negatively correlated with memory, executive function, and attention. S100β negatively correlated with memory and executive functions; some lymphocyte subpopulations positively correlated with attention, memory, and executive functions. Interleukin 2 [IL-2], IL-4, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor α negatively correlated with memory and positively correlated with executive functions. Interleukin 1β negatively correlated with global cognitive dysfunction and positively correlated with logical thinking. Interleukin 10 and brain-derived neurotrophic factor negatively correlated with memory.
CONCLUSION
Despite the relative scarcity of studies on this subject and the heterogeneity of results, we identified possible biomarkers for cognitive deficits in the RA population. Further longitudinal studies are warranted to clarify these associations and the establishment of possible biomarkers for cognitive deficits in RA.
Topics: Humans; Arthritis, Rheumatoid; Biomarkers; Cognitive Dysfunction; Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha
PubMed: 36729842
DOI: 10.1097/RHU.0000000000001888 -
European Journal of Neurology May 2023Non-(acute disseminated encephalomyelitis) (non-ADEM) encephalitis and/or fluid attenuated inversion recovery hyperintense lesions in... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
Non-(acute disseminated encephalomyelitis) (non-ADEM) encephalitis and/or fluid attenuated inversion recovery hyperintense lesions in anti-myelin-oligodendrocyte-glycoprotein-associated encephalitis with seizures (FLAMES) are rarely described in patients with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibodies (Abs). The aim was (i) to describe the clinical features and disease course of children and adults with non-ADEM encephalitis and/or FLAMES associated with MOG Abs and (ii) to describe their association with other central nervous system autoantibodies.
METHODS
This was a systematic review following the PRISMA guidelines. Patients fulfilled criteria for non-ADEM encephalitis and/or FLAMES, and all were MOG Ab positive.
RESULTS
In total, 83 (79%) patients with non-ADEM encephalitis (48 also had FLAMES) and 22 (21%) with isolated FLAMES were included. At the first episode, children (n = 45) had more infections (11/45, 24.4%; p = 0.017) and more of the phenotype consisting of non-ADEM encephalitis (42/45, 93.3%; p = 0.014) than adults (n = 38). Children had more episodes consistent with working memory deficits (25/54, 46.3%; p = 0.014) but fewer psychiatric symptoms (16/54, 29.6%; p = 0.002). Twenty-eight (40.6%) of 69 patients had N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) Abs in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), being more frequent in adults (19/29, 65.5%; p < 0.001). Compared to negatives, positive CSF NMDAR Abs had more relapses (14/20, 70%; p = 0.050), required ventilatory support more frequently (8/34, 23.5%; p = 0.009) and had more psychiatric episodes (28/34, 82%; p < 0.001) or abnormal movements (14/34, 41.2%; p = 0.008). Apart from an older age in FLAMES, positive and negative CSF NMDAR Ab groups shared similar features.
CONCLUSION
Non-ADEM encephalitis patients with MOG Abs show specific clinical and radiological features, depending on the age at first episode. The presence of MOG Abs in non-ADEM encephalitis patients should not rule out to test other autoantibodies, especially concomitant NMDAR Abs in patients with suggestive symptoms such as behavioural or movement alterations.
Topics: Humans; Myelin-Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein; Encephalitis; Encephalomyelitis, Acute Disseminated; Disease Progression; Autoantibodies
PubMed: 36704861
DOI: 10.1111/ene.15684 -
Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders Jan 2023Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disease in which the myelin lining the central nervous system is damaged. The complex and unpredictable nature of MS disease...
BACKGROUND
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disease in which the myelin lining the central nervous system is damaged. The complex and unpredictable nature of MS disease makes the diagnosis process more difficult for the patient. The aim of this study was to review the lived experiences of patients with multiple sclerosis when receiving the diagnosis.
METHODS
We followed the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) statement. A systematic search was performed using four databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and psych info on April 2022.
RESULTS
We found 537 articles. After Applying relevant exclusion criteria removing duplicate and irrelevant articles, 13 studies were included in our systematic review after the abstract and full-text screening. Our findings collected data from 10 sub-themes in the following 3 themes to capture patients' experiences after receiving the diagnosis. These included: Emotional reactions to receiving the diagnosis; Communication with health professionals and knowledge about MS and Fear of being different.
CONCLUSION
It is important to understand patients' experiences with the disease and identifying problems to help and support families, patients, and health care personnel's. Therefore, it is necessary to design or implement therapeutic interventions for patients at the time of receiving the diagnosis to reduce psychological problems.
Topics: Humans; Qualitative Research; Delivery of Health Care; Health Personnel; Multiple Sclerosis; Communication
PubMed: 36549103
DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2022.104473 -
Acta Histochemica Jan 2023Epithelial membrane protein 2 (EMP2) is a cell surface protein composed of approximately 160 amino acids and encoded by the growth arrest-specific 3 (GAS3)/peripheral... (Review)
Review
OBJECTIVES
Epithelial membrane protein 2 (EMP2) is a cell surface protein composed of approximately 160 amino acids and encoded by the growth arrest-specific 3 (GAS3)/peripheral myelin protein 22 kDa (PMP22) gene family. Although EMP2 expression has been investigated in several diseases, much remains unknown regarding its mechanism of action and the extent of its role in pathogenesis. Our aim was to perform a systematic review on the involvement of EMP2 in disease processes and the current usage of anti-EMP2 therapies.
METHODS
A Boolean search of the English-language medical literature was performed. PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and Web of Science were used to identify relevant citations. This study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.
RESULTS
52 studies met the inclusion criteria for qualitative analysis. Of those, 28 (53.8%) were human-only studies, 11 (21.2%) were animal-only studies, and 13 (25%) studies included both human and animal models. Furthermore, 34 (65.4%) studies focused on EMP2's role in neoplasms, while the remaining 18 (34.6%) articles evaluated its role in other pathologies.
CONCLUSION
Overall, the evidence suggests the mechanisms of action of EMP2 are context dependent. Promising results have been produced by utilizing EMP2 as a biomarker and therapeutic target. More studies are warranted to better understand the mechanism and comprehend the role of EMP2 in the pathogenesis of diseases.
Topics: Animals; Humans; Membrane Glycoproteins; Membrane Proteins
PubMed: 36455339
DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2022.151976