@article {pmid40555967,
year = {2025},
author = {Ahmed, AB and Draz, ME and Asad, H and Naguib, IA and Edrees, FH},
title = {Innovative Synchronous Spectrofluorometric Method for Assessing a Novel Drug Combination in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: In Vivo Human Application With Greenness and Sustainability Evaluation.},
journal = {Luminescence : the journal of biological and chemical luminescence},
volume = {40},
number = {6},
pages = {e70222},
doi = {10.1002/bio.70222},
pmid = {40555967},
issn = {1522-7243},
support = {TU-DSPP-2024-49//Taif University/ ; },
mesh = {*Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/drug therapy ; Humans ; Spectrometry, Fluorescence/methods ; *Celecoxib/analysis/therapeutic use/administration & dosage/blood ; *Ciprofloxacin/analysis/therapeutic use/blood/administration & dosage ; Drug Combinations ; },
abstract = {Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a severe neurological disorder that causes damage to sensory neurons, then paralysis and death. A novel combination of celecoxib (CXP) and ciprofloxacin (CIP) has recently been used to enhance both motor performance and CNS cell morphology, alterations in the rate of disease progression, quality of life, and survival, which passed phase IIb RCT study. Celecoxib is classified as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug; ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that has a synergistic effect for the treatment of ALS, which is a severe neurological disorder. A new sustainable, simple, sensitive, and environmentally friendly synchronous spectrofluorimetric approach (SSF) was established to simultaneously estimate celecoxib and ciprofloxacin in pure form and biological fluids. The approach depends on synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy, where CXP and CIP were detected at 364 and 438 nm, correspondingly, using Δλ of 80-nm utilizing sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) micellar system, which considerably improved synchronous fluorescence intensity. The approach was validated and revealed excellent linearity with concentrations varying from 10 to 10,000 and 5 to 20,000 ng/mL for CXP and CIP; correspondingly, CXP and CIP showed extremely low limits of detection (LODs) 0.58-0.24 ng/mL, which guarantee the sensitivity of the proposed approach. The suggested approach was successfully implemented to analyze the co-administered pharmaceuticals in their pure form and actual human plasma after concurrent oral administration of both drugs, which may be employed in an inquiry on the pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of human plasma to the new coming PrimeC pharmaceutical formulation. Ultimately, the method's remarkable greenness was proved by evaluating its greenness profile using various assessment strategies. The findings revealed that the SSF approach is a sustainable and environmentally friendly analytical approach.},
}

*Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/drug therapy
Humans
Spectrometry, Fluorescence/methods
*Celecoxib/analysis/therapeutic use/administration & dosage/blood
*Ciprofloxacin/analysis/therapeutic use/blood/administration & dosage
Drug Combinations

@article {pmid40550228,
year = {2025},
author = {Tiwari, A and Singh, B and Singh, GK and Meena, J and Agrawal, AK and Kumar, S and Modi, G},
title = {Unveiling Exosome Potential: Transforming Treatments for Neurodegeneration.},
journal = {ACS applied bio materials},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acsabm.5c00096},
pmid = {40550228},
issn = {2576-6422},
abstract = {Exosomes, tiny extracellular vesicles, hold significant potential as biological nanocarriers for diverse therapeutic agents due to their exceptional ability to navigate through the barriers of biological systems. This comprehensive review delves into the capability of exosomes in the therapy of neurodegenerative disorders, concentrating on their potential for targeted drug delivery. It examines the complex processes involved in exosome-mediated drug delivery, including targeting, cellular uptake, intracellular trafficking, and therapeutic release. Insights from preclinical studies and clinical trials are exploited, highlighting the impactful applications of exosomes, particularly in the treatment of Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, ALS, and Huntington's diseases. The review also addresses challenges such as immunogenicity, scalability, and regulatory obstacles while exploring emerging technologies like advanced exosome engineering, personalized medicine, and the integration of nanotechnology. Overall, this review accentuates the potential impact of exosome-based treatments in biomedicine alongside the critical need to overcome existing barriers.},
}

@article {pmid40548824,
year = {2025},
author = {Leykam, L and Jonsson, PA and Forsberg, KME and Andersen, PM and Brännström, T and Marklund, SL and Zetterström, P},
title = {SOD1 Protein Content in Human Central Nervous System and Peripheral Tissues.},
journal = {Journal of neurochemistry},
volume = {169},
number = {6},
pages = {e70136},
doi = {10.1111/jnc.70136},
pmid = {40548824},
issn = {1471-4159},
support = {//Olsson och Olsson Välgörenhetsstiftelse/ ; //King Gustaf V:s and Queen Victoria's Freemason's Foundation/ ; //Fort Knox Välgörenhetsstiftelse/ ; 2.1.12-1605-14//Umeå University Insamlingsstiftelsen/ ; 2.1.6-452-20//Umeå University Insamlingsstiftelsen/ ; 223-1881-13//Umeå University Insamlingsstiftelsen/ ; 223-2808-12//Umeå University Insamlingsstiftelsen/ ; //Västerbotten Läns Landsting/ ; //Ulla-Carin Lindquists stiftelse för ALS-forskning/ ; //Neuroförbundet/ ; 2012-3167//Vetenskapsrådet/ ; 2017-03100//Vetenskapsrådet/ ; 2012.0091//Knut och Alice Wallenbergs Stiftelse/ ; 2014.0305//Knut och Alice Wallenbergs Stiftelse/ ; 2020.0232//Knut och Alice Wallenbergs Stiftelse/ ; 2012-0262//Swedish brain foundation/ ; 2012-0305//Swedish brain foundation/ ; 2013-0279//Swedish brain foundation/ ; 2016-0303//Swedish brain foundation/ ; 2020-0353//Swedish brain foundation/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Superoxide Dismutase-1/metabolism ; Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/metabolism/genetics/enzymology ; Male ; Female ; *Central Nervous System/enzymology/metabolism ; Middle Aged ; Aged ; Adult ; *Superoxide Dismutase/metabolism ; Muscle, Skeletal/enzymology ; },
abstract = {Gene silencing therapy is an effective treatment for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients carrying mutations in the superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD1) gene aiming to reduce noxious forms of SOD1 in the central nervous system (CNS). The normal steady-state level of SOD1 protein in human CNS is therefore of interest but is contested. In this work we have analyzed SOD1 protein content, total protein content, and SOD1 enzymatic activity in six areas of the CNS as well as in four peripheral tissues from sporadic and familial ALS patients and non-ALS controls. Our results show that SOD1 in the human CNS constitutes around 100 μg/g wet weight corresponding to about 0.16% of the total protein in the studied areas. Of the peripheral tissues analyzed, kidney and erythrocytes contain roughly equal amounts, liver higher, and skeletal muscle lower levels of SOD1 compared to the CNS. This data shows SOD1 protein levels around 10 times lower compared to previously published figures. However, SOD1 can still be considered an abundant protein considering that > 12 000 proteins are expressed in human cells. There was no difference in SOD1 protein content between sporadic or familial ALS patients and control individuals. The level and activity of SOD1 are not deviating in the areas of the CNS that are most vulnerable to ALS. Instead, insufficient control of SOD1 structure and aggregation could be important factors behind the vulnerability of motor areas to SOD1 proteotoxicity.},
}

Humans
*Superoxide Dismutase-1/metabolism
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/metabolism/genetics/enzymology
Male
Female
*Central Nervous System/enzymology/metabolism
Middle Aged
Aged
Adult
*Superoxide Dismutase/metabolism
Muscle, Skeletal/enzymology

@article {pmid40547142,
year = {2025},
author = {Kumar, S},
title = {Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma susceptibility of activin A receptor type 1C variants in Chinese population.},
journal = {World journal of gastrointestinal oncology},
volume = {17},
number = {6},
pages = {102687},
pmid = {40547142},
issn = {1948-5204},
abstract = {Lin et al's investigation on the association of activin A receptor type 1C (ACVR1C) (transforming growth factor beta type I receptor) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) risk in the Chinese population is a scientific approach. This study explores the susceptibility of ACVR1C polymorphism towards ESCC in the Chinese population, highlighting the polymorphism's potentiality as an early diagnostic and therapeutic target. The author assessed about a thousand ESCC Chinese patients' samples for ACVR1C SNPs in a hospital-based cohort study using the ligation detection reaction method. Further, the hypothesis was tested using appropriate statistical genetic models and stratified analysis. ACVR1C SNPs can help assess ESCC susceptibility stratification and provide valuable information for individual diagnosis and treatment of ESCC patients. In order to account for confounding variables, find genuine SNP-disease relationships, boost statistical power, and make biological interpretation easier, it is imperative that genetic association studies of ESCC incorporate pertinent clinical aspects.},
}

@article {pmid40541317,
year = {2025},
author = {Frecska, E and Kovács, A and Szabo, A},
title = {The protective effect of DMT against neurodegeneration.},
journal = {International review of neurobiology},
volume = {181},
number = {},
pages = {395-420},
doi = {10.1016/bs.irn.2025.04.010},
pmid = {40541317},
issn = {2162-5514},
abstract = {This paper explores the therapeutic potential of DMT in neuroprotective strategies, particularly concerning ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) and neurodegenerative disorders. Besides its potent serotonin receptor actions, DMT is also an endogenous agonist of the sigma-1 receptor (Sig-1R). Sigma receptors are a unique family of proteins with high expression in the brain and spinal cord and have been involved in the etiology, symptom course and treatment of several central nervous system disorders. Our previous theoretical and experimental work strongly suggest that targeting sigma (and serotonin) receptors via DMT may be particularly useful for treatment in a number of neurological conditions like stroke, global brain ischemia, Alzheimer's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. In this article, we briefly overview the function of Sig1-R in cellular bioenergetics with a focus on the processes involved in IRI and summarize the results of our previous preclinical (in vitro and in vivo) DMT studies aiming at mitigating IRI and related cellular neuropathologies. We conclude that the effect of DMT may involve a universal role in cellular protective mechanisms suggesting therapeutic potentials against different components and types of IRIs emerging in local and generalized brain ischemia after stroke or cardiac arrest. The multiple neuroprotective mechanisms facilitated by DMT may position it as a model molecule for developing pharmacological treatments for neurodegenerative disorders.},
}

@article {pmid40540128,
year = {2025},
author = {Bonan, L and Bombardi, M and Di Lionardo, A and Vitiello, M and Morresi, S and Longoni, M},
title = {Co-occurence of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and sarcoidosis: a case report and systematic review of the literature.},
journal = {Neurological sciences : official journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40540128},
issn = {1590-3478},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder affecting motor neurons, with 90% of cases being sporadic. Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease affecting multiple organs, with neurological complications occurring in 5-10% of patients. Only isolated cases of this extremely rare combination of the two diseases have been reported.

METHODS: We present the case of a 45-year-old man diagnosed with ALS after a 2-year history of progressive upper limb weakness who was incidentally found to be affected by thoraco-abdominal lymphadenopathy. The biopsy confirmed the co-presence of sarcoidosis. We also make a systematic review of the literature of this rare combination.

RESULTS: The patient showed stabilization of the neurological condition and the pneumological disease after administration of immunosuppressive treatment.

CONCLUSION: Our case report and literature review highlight peculiar clinical characteristics of this extremely rare combination of diseases, deepening the understanding of this peculiar phenotype.},
}

@article {pmid40536931,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, K and Chen, R and Wang, R and Fan, W and Zhao, N and Yang, Z and Yan, J},
title = {Neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative diseases: Focusing on the mediation of T lymphocytes.},
journal = {Neural regeneration research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.4103/NRR.NRR-D-24-01539},
pmid = {40536931},
issn = {1673-5374},
abstract = {Neurodegenerative diseases are a group of illnesses characterized by the gradual deterioration of the central nervous system, leading to a decline in patients' cognitive, motor, and emotional abilities. Neuroinflammation plays a significant role in the progression of these diseases. However, there is limited research on therapeutic approaches to specifically target neuroinflammation. The role of T lymphocytes, which are crucial mediators of the adaptive immune response, in neurodegenerative diseases has been increasingly recognized. This review focuses on the involvement of T lymphocytes in the neuroinflammation associated with neurodegenerative diseases. The pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases is complex, involving multiple mechanisms and pathways that contribute to the gradual degeneration of neurons, and T cells are a key component of these processes. One of the primary factors driving neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative diseases is the infiltration of T cells and other neuroimmune cells, including microglia, astrocytes, B cells, and natural killer cells. Different subsets of CD4+ T cells, such as Th1, Th2, Th17, and regulatory T cells, can differentiate into various cell types and perform distinct roles within the neuroinflammatory environment of neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, CD8+ T cells, which can directly regulate immune responses and kill target cells, also play several important roles in neurodegenerative diseases. Clinical trials investigating targeted T cell therapies for neurodegenerative diseases have shown that, while some patients respond positively, others may not respond as well and may even experience adverse effects. Targeting T cells precisely is challenging due to the complexity of immune responses in the central nervous system, which can lead to undesirable side effects. However, with new insights into the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, there is hope for the establishment of a solid theoretical foundation upon which innovative treatment strategies that target T cells can be developed in the future.},
}

@article {pmid40534528,
year = {2025},
author = {Ertural, B and Çiçek, BN and Kurnaz, IA},
title = {RNA Therapeutics: Focus on Antisense Oligonucleotides in the Nervous System.},
journal = {Biomolecules & therapeutics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.4062/biomolther.2025.022},
pmid = {40534528},
issn = {1976-9148},
abstract = {RNA therapeutics present a disruptive technology that has changed the drug discovery and manufacturing landscape, which established itself more prominently upon the recent COVID-19 pandemic. RNA therapeutics encompass diverse molecules like antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), RNA aptamers, and messenger RNAs (mRNAs), which can function through different mechanisms. RNA therapeutics are witnessing expanding applications across a range of diseases, notably in the treatment of neurological disorders. For instance, ASO therapies like nusinersen for spinal muscular atrophy and eteplirsen for Duchenne muscular dystrophy exemplify successful RNA therapeutic strategies. Emerging ASO treatments for Huntington's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis are also promising, with ongoing clinical trials demonstrating significant reductions in disease-associated proteins. Still, delivery of these molecules remains a pivotal challenge in RNA therapeutics, especially for ASOs in penetrating the blood-brain barrier to target neurological disorders effectively. Nanoparticlebased formulations have emerged as leading strategies to enhance RNA stability, reduce immunogenicity, and improve cellular uptake. Despite these advances, significant hurdles remain, including optimizing pharmacokinetics, minimizing off-target effects, and ensuring sustained therapeutic efficacy. Regulatory frameworks are evolving to accommodate the unique challenges of RNAbased therapies, including ASOs with efforts underway to establish comprehensive guidelines for RNA therapeutics, yet there are also sustainable manufacturing issues that need to be considered for long-term feasibility. By addressing these challenges, RNA therapeutics hold immense potential to revolutionize treatment paradigms for neurological disorders. Looking forward, the future of RNA therapeutics in neurology appears promising but requires continued interdisciplinary collaboration and technological innovation.},
}

@article {pmid40527529,
year = {2025},
author = {Cassidy-Seyoum, SA and Adhikari, B and Chheng, K and Chanpheakdey, P and Meershoek, A and Hsiang, MS and von Seidlein, L and Tripura, R and Ley, B and Price, RN and Dysoley, L and Thriemer, K and Engel, N},
title = {Acceptability and feasibility of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) testing using SD Biosensor by village malaria workers in Cambodia: a qualitative study.},
journal = {BMJ global health},
volume = {10},
number = {6},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1136/bmjgh-2025-019615},
pmid = {40527529},
issn = {2059-7908},
mesh = {Humans ; Cambodia ; Qualitative Research ; Feasibility Studies ; *Glucosephosphate Dehydrogenase/blood/analysis ; Female ; *Community Health Workers ; *Biosensing Techniques/methods ; Focus Groups ; Male ; *Glucosephosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency/diagnosis ; *Patient Acceptance of Health Care/statistics & numerical data ; *Malaria, Vivax/drug therapy ; Adult ; Interviews as Topic ; Point-of-Care Testing ; Middle Aged ; Malaria ; Primaquine/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Plasmodium vivax is the predominant cause of malaria in the Greater Mekong Subregion. To ensure safe treatment with primaquine, point-of-care glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) testing was rolled out in Cambodia at the health facility level, although most malaria patients are diagnosed in the community. The current study aims to explore the acceptability and feasibility of implementing community-level G6PD testing in Cambodia.

METHODS: Semistructured interviews and focus group discussions (FGD) were conducted. Across eight study sites in three provinces, 142 respondents, including policymakers, programme officers, healthcare providers and patients, participated in 67 interviews and 19 FGDs in 2022 and 2023. Data were analysed thematically using an adapted framework derived from Bowen et al's feasibility framework and Sekhon et al's acceptability framework.

RESULTS: All stakeholders attributed value to the intervention. Acknowledging an intervention's different values can help discern policy implications for an intervention's successful implementation. Building and maintaining confidence in the device, end users, infrastructure and health systems were found to be key elements of acceptability. In general, health centre workers and village malaria workers (VMWs) had confidence that VMWs could conduct the test and administer treatment given appropriate initial training, monthly refresher training and the test's repeated use. More is required to build policymakers' confidence, while some implementation challenges, including the test's regulatory approval, stability above 30°C and cost, need to be overcome.

CONCLUSION: Implementation of G6PD testing at the community level in Cambodia is an acceptable and potentially feasible option but requires addressing implementation challenges and building and maintaining confidence among stakeholders.},
}

Humans
Cambodia
Qualitative Research
Feasibility Studies
*Glucosephosphate Dehydrogenase/blood/analysis
Female
*Community Health Workers
*Biosensing Techniques/methods
Focus Groups
Male
*Glucosephosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency/diagnosis
*Patient Acceptance of Health Care/statistics & numerical data
*Malaria, Vivax/drug therapy
Adult
Interviews as Topic
Point-of-Care Testing
Middle Aged
Malaria
Primaquine/therapeutic use

@article {pmid40522761,
year = {2026},
author = {Fan, T and Peng, J and Liang, H and Chen, W and Wang, J and Xu, R},
title = {Potential common pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative diseases.},
journal = {Neural regeneration research},
volume = {21},
number = {3},
pages = {972-988},
doi = {10.4103/NRR.NRR-D-24-01054},
pmid = {40522761},
issn = {1673-5374},
abstract = {With the gradual advancement of research methods and technologies, various biological processes have been identified as playing roles in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. However, current descriptions of these biological processes do not fully explain the onset, progression, and development of these conditions. Therefore, exploration of the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases remains a valuable area of research. This review summarizes the potential common pathogeneses of Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington's disease, frontotemporal lobar dementia, and Lewy body disease. Research findings have indicated that several common biological processes, including aging, genetic factors, progressive neuronal dysfunction, neuronal death and apoptosis, protein misfolding and aggregation, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, axonal transport defects, and gut microbiota dysbiosis, are involved in the pathogenesis of these six neurodegenerative diseases. Based on current information derived from diverse areas of research, these biological processes may form complex pathogenic networks that lead to distinctive types of neuronal death in neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, promoting the regeneration of damaged neurons may be achievable through the repair of affected neural cells if the underlying pathogenesis can be prevented or reversed. Hence, these potential common biological processes may represent only very small, limited elements within numerous intricate pathogenic networks associated with neurodegenerative diseases. In clinical treatment, interfering with any single biological process has proven insufficient to completely halt the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, future research on the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases should focus on uncovering the complex pathogenic networks, rather than isolating individual biological processes. Based on this, therapies that aim to block or reverse various targets involved in the potential pathogenic mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases may be promising directions, as current treatment methods that focus on halting a single pathogenic factor have not achieved satisfactory efficacy.},
}

@article {pmid40519505,
year = {2025},
author = {Funo, K and Fukutake, T and Takeuchi, R and Uzawa, Y},
title = {Importance of Individualized Pressure Settings in Mechanical Insufflation-Exsufflation for Lung Volume Recruitment: A Case Report.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {5},
pages = {e84211},
pmid = {40519505},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Lung volume recruitment (LVR) has been proposed as a treatment to maintain respiratory health in patients with neuromuscular diseases who frequently develop restrictive ventilatory impairment due to muscle weakness. LVR applies noninvasive mechanical pressure techniques to maintain and improve pulmonary and chest wall compliance and to preserve vital capacity. Various methods of LVR have been developed, which can be classified into two types: the stacked-breath method and the single-breath method. Mechanical insufflation-exsufflation (MI-E) is one approach categorized under the single-breath method. Although the clinical use of pressure settings in MI-E varies, inspiratory pressure levels around 40 cmH2O are sometimes applied in practice. However, such settings may result in patient discomfort and raise safety concerns. Given the limited clinical guidance available, it may be more appropriate to determine individualized settings based on each patient's impairment level, pulmonary mechanics, and tolerance. This case report describes such an approach to LVR using the single-breath method with MI-E in a patient with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). To determine the optimal inspiratory pressure, three parameters were assessed at each pressure level: expiratory volume, subjective perception of lung expansion, and immediate subjective effects following inspiration. As the patient reported discomfort at 30 cmH2O, the final inspiratory pressure was set at 25 cmH2O. This level of inspiratory assistance led to improvements in vocal loudness and alleviated breathlessness during speech. These positive effects contributed to the patient's acceptance of the intervention and its continued use after discharge to home care. This case highlights the importance of tailoring LVR settings to optimize effectiveness, patient comfort, and safety, based on pulmonary mechanics, bedside volume assessment, and patient-reported respiratory status.},
}

@article {pmid40518671,
year = {2025},
author = {Del Val, G and Gauye, F and Audrain, M and Menant, S and Ratnam, M and Chevalier, E and Ollier, R and Bhatia, D and Seredenina, T and Afroz, T and Pfeifer, A and Kosco-Vilbois, M and Nevoltris, D},
title = {A single dose of a vectorized mAb targeting TDP-43 potently inhibits the neuropathology in a model of ALS/FTD.},
journal = {Molecular therapy : the journal of the American Society of Gene Therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.ymthe.2025.06.026},
pmid = {40518671},
issn = {1525-0024},
abstract = {TAR DNA binding protein-43 (TDP-43)-mediated pathology is a hallmark of devastating neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Thus, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are being developed to target the pathological forms of this protein. To improve mAb exposure within the central nervous system, a potent anti-TDP-43 mAb, ACI-5891, was generated as a vectorized full-length antibody (vmAb) and evaluated for brain delivery using adeno-associated virus 9 (AAV9). Among the expression cassettes explored, the selected construct utilized an internal ribosome entry site (IRES), which produced high expression yields in vitro (>200 mg/L) with comparable quality, binding and functional properties to the conventionally produced mAb. A single intracisternal administration of vmAb ACI-5891 demonstrated a broad brain distribution and sustained expression (i.e., months) in the serum, cerebrospinal fluid and brain of mice. In a mouse model of ALS/FTD, treatment with a vmAb reduced the amount of pathological phospho-TDP-43 in neurons by 58% and 68% when expressed either using a ubiquitous promoter or a brain-selective promoter, respectively. This innovative approach sufficiently delivers effective immunotherapy with a single dose and illustrates the enormous potential of using vectorized antibodies to target neuropathology, including TDP-43 in patients suffering from ALS, FTD and other TDP-43 proteinopathies.},
}

@article {pmid40517187,
year = {2025},
author = {Haro-Martínez, E and Muscolino, E and Moral, N and Duran, J and Fornaguera, C},
title = {Crossing the blood-brain barrier: nanoparticle-based strategies for neurodegenerative disease therapy.},
journal = {Drug delivery and translational research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40517187},
issn = {2190-3948},
support = {2021 SGR 00537//Agència de Gestió d'Ajuts Universitaris i de Recerca/ ; 2024-LLAV-00042//Agència de Gestió d'Ajuts Universitaris i de Recerca/ ; ICREA Acadèmia 2024//Agència de Gestió d'Ajuts Universitaris i de Recerca/ ; 202207-31//Fundació la Marató de TV3/ ; PID2020-118699GB-100//Agencia Estatal de Investigación/ ; Not specified//Fundación Ramón Areces/ ; FISDUR-2024//Departament d'Universitats, Recerca i Societat de la Informació/ ; },
abstract = {Neurodegenerative conditions, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Huntington's disease, represent a critical medical challenge due to their increasing prevalence, severe consequences, and absence of curative treatments. Beyond the need for a deeper understanding of the fundamental mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration, the development of effective treatments is hindered by the blood-brain barrier, which poses a major obstacle to delivering therapeutic agents to the central nervous system. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the current landscape of nanoparticle-based strategies to overcome the blood-brain barrier and enhance drug delivery for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. The nanocarriers reviewed in this work encompass a diverse array of nanoparticles, including polymeric nanoparticles (e.g. micelles and dendrimers), inorganic nanoparticles (e.g. superparamagentic iron oxide nanoparticles, mesoporous silica nanoparticles, gold nanoparticles, selenium and cerium oxide nanoparticles), lipid nanoparticles (e.g. liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanoemulsions), as well as quantum dots, protein nanoparticles, and hybrid nanocarriers. By examining recent advancements and highlighting future research directions, we aim to shed light on the promising role of nanomedicine in addressing the unmet therapeutic needs of these diseases.},
}

@article {pmid40513028,
year = {2025},
author = {Bromberg, MB},
title = {What Is in the Literature.},
journal = {Journal of clinical neuromuscular disease},
volume = {26},
number = {4},
pages = {176-183},
doi = {10.1097/CND.0000000000000526},
pmid = {40513028},
issn = {1537-1611},
mesh = {Humans ; *Motor Neuron Disease/therapy/diagnosis ; *Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/therapy/diagnosis ; },
abstract = {This issue of What Is in the Literature focuses on articles over the past year on clinical aspects of motor neuron disease, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and primary lateral sclerosis (PLS). Disease-modifying treatment for ALS remains a challenge as 2 formal drug trials did not hold up to retesting. There are new thoughts based on a multistep model to partially explain why ALS develops relatively late in life. New information on fluid biomarkers, sex differences, efficacy of medical marijuana for common symptoms, and cognitive dysfunction are discussed. For the clinic, there are updated guidelines for multidisciplinary management. Other articles address how frequently the topic of sexual health is brought up in the clinic, and insights into how patients view end-of-life issues and quality of life when using tracheal ventilation. PLS has diagnostic challenges and practical aspects, which are reviewed.},
}

Humans
*Motor Neuron Disease/therapy/diagnosis
*Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/therapy/diagnosis

@article {pmid40511876,
year = {2025},
author = {Yeole, A and Khanna, L and Doshi, M and Sharma, A and Uttarwar, P and Doshi, S and Kaushik Kumar, R and Venkataramana, N and Parmar, D},
title = {A phase 2, proof-of-concept, placebo-controlled, randomized, multicenter, double-blind study to evaluate the efficacy, safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of Usnoflast (ZYIL1) in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.},
journal = {Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis & frontotemporal degeneration},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-8},
doi = {10.1080/21678421.2025.2515900},
pmid = {40511876},
issn = {2167-9223},
abstract = {Objective: To assess the efficacy, safety, pharmacokinetics (PK), and pharmacodynamics (PD) of Usnoflast (ZYIL1) in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Methods: Patients with a probable or definite ALS diagnosis were randomized to receive twice daily oral doses (for 12 weeks) of Usnoflast (25 mg, 50 mg, or 75 mg) or placebo. The primary outcome was the change in ALS functional rating scale-revised (ALSFRS-R) total score from baseline to week 12. Secondary outcomes were assessment of PK, change in slow vital capacity (SVC) and serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of neurofilament light (NfL) chain from baseline to week 12, and safety up to 12 weeks. Results: Total 24 patients were enrolled; 71% of those who received Usnoflast had the drug above therapeutic concentration in CSF. In the modified intent-to-treat (mITT) population, least square mean changes (ANCOVA) in ALSFRS-R total score from baseline to week 12 were -1.91 for Usnoflast 25 mg, -3.84 for Usnoflast 50 mg, 0.52 for Usnoflast 75 mg, and -2.26 for placebo arm. Though not significant (p > 0.05), compared with placebo, Usnoflast 75 mg demonstrated a difference of 2.78 (mITT) and 3.28 (per-protocol) in ALSFRS-R total score. Statistical non-significant differences were also observed in changes of SVC% and CSF NfL levels. Usnoflast was well-tolerated at tested doses, and there was no treatment-emergent serious adverse event or death during the study duration. Conclusion: Usnoflast 50 and 75 mg doses were well-tolerated in ALS patients, providing rationale for further studies of Usnoflast in ALS.},
}

@article {pmid40509360,
year = {2025},
author = {Chang, B and Huang, J and Xie, Q and Ruan, Y and Liu, R},
title = {Identification, Geographical Traceability, and Thermal Oxidation and Photodegradation Studies of Camellia Oil Based on Raman Spectroscopy.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {30},
number = {11},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/molecules30112473},
pmid = {40509360},
issn = {1420-3049},
support = {2024KY0802, 2023KY0217,XJ21KT29//the Middle-aged and Young Teachers' Basic Ability Promotion Project of Guangxi，The Guilin University of Aerospace Technology School Fund/ ; No. AD25069073//Guangxi Science and Technology Program Project/ ; },
mesh = {*Spectrum Analysis, Raman/methods ; *Plant Oils/chemistry/analysis ; *Camellia/chemistry ; Oxidation-Reduction ; Photolysis ; Carotenoids/chemistry/analysis ; Temperature ; Least-Squares Analysis ; Discriminant Analysis ; },
abstract = {Camellia oil, rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, squalene, tocopherols, and polyphenols, is highly valued for its nutritional benefits. However, its high market value and regional variations have led to frequent adulteration, highlighting the need for rapid, non-destructive methods for authentication, geographical traceability, and quality assessment. This study employed portable Raman spectroscopy combined with Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA) and Multivariate Curve Resolution-Alternating Least Squares (MCR-ALS) to differentiate camellia oil from other edible oils and evaluate its thermal and photo-oxidative stability. PLS-DA, based on VIP-selected spectral variables, effectively distinguished camellia oil, with Raman bands near 1250 cm[-1] and 1650 cm[-1] contributing significantly. A unique peak at 1525 cm[-1], observed in samples from Gongcheng, Guangxi, was associated with carotenoids and served as a potential marker for geographical traceability. MCR-ALS modeling revealed significant reductions in the 1650 cm[-1] and 1525 cm[-1] peaks when temperatures exceeded 150 °C, indicating degradation of unsaturated fatty acids and carotenoids. Under UV exposure, the 1525 cm[-1] peak declined sharply and nearly disappeared after 24 h, suggesting rapid carotenoid degradation via photooxidation. Extended UV treatment also affected the 1650 cm[-1] peak and led to oxidative product accumulation. Overall, this study demonstrates the feasibility of integrating Raman spectroscopy with chemometric analysis for efficient oil classification, traceability, and stability monitoring, offering a valuable tool for food quality control and market supervision.},
}

*Spectrum Analysis, Raman/methods
*Plant Oils/chemistry/analysis
*Camellia/chemistry
Oxidation-Reduction
Photolysis
Carotenoids/chemistry/analysis
Temperature
Least-Squares Analysis
Discriminant Analysis

@article {pmid40508048,
year = {2025},
author = {Tolochko, C and Shiryaeva, O and Alekseeva, T and Dyachuk, V},
title = {Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Pathophysiological Mechanisms and Treatment Strategies (Part 2).},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {11},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms26115240},
pmid = {40508048},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {*Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/physiopathology/drug therapy/metabolism/therapy/etiology/pathology ; Humans ; Oxidative Stress/drug effects ; Animals ; Antioxidants/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Motor Neurons/metabolism/pathology/drug effects ; Glutamic Acid/metabolism ; Neuroprotective Agents/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease associated with damage to motor neurons and leading to severe muscle weakness and, eventually, death. Over the past decade, understanding of the key pathogenetic links of ALS, including glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity and oxidative stress, has significantly advanced. This review considers the recent evidence on molecular mechanisms of these processes, as well as the therapeutic strategies aimed at their modulation. Special attention is paid to antiglutamatergic and antioxidant drugs as approaches to the ALS pathogenetic therapy.},
}

*Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/physiopathology/drug therapy/metabolism/therapy/etiology/pathology
Humans
Oxidative Stress/drug effects
Animals
Antioxidants/therapeutic use/pharmacology
Motor Neurons/metabolism/pathology/drug effects
Glutamic Acid/metabolism
Neuroprotective Agents/therapeutic use

@article {pmid40505784,
year = {2025},
author = {Tang, J and Kang, Y and Chen, Q and Zhang, B and Shang, N and Lan, J and Wu, L and Peng, Y},
title = {TIMP1 inhibits Rac1-mediated ROS production to ameliorate blood-spinal cord barrier disruption in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.},
journal = {Neurobiology of disease},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {106987},
doi = {10.1016/j.nbd.2025.106987},
pmid = {40505784},
issn = {1095-953X},
abstract = {Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive degeneration of motor neurons, for which therapeutic strategies and pharmacological interventions remain limited. Disruption of the blood-spinal cord barrier (BSCB) has been identified as a significant factor that may exacerbate motor neuron damage. Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP1), a molecule known for its dual roles in inhibiting matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity and exerting cytokine-like effects via receptor interactions, has been demonstrated to ameliorate endothelial barrier damage in various diseases. Here, we explored the potential of TIMP1 to restore BSCB integrity as a strategy to slow the ALS progression. Specifically, the expression of TIMP1 or its mutant variant AlaTIMP1, which lacks MMP-inhibitory activity, in spinal cord microvascular endothelial cells (SCMECs) prior to disease onset significantly reduces BSCB leakage in mice with ALS, thereby alleviating motor function deficits and delaying disease progression. Additionally, TIMP1 expression restores the expression of junctional complexes in SCMECs, as demonstrated in both in vivo and in vitro ALS models. Mechanistic studies revealed that TIMP1 suppresses ALS injury-induced integrin β1 activation independent of MMP inhibition, blocking downstream Rac1 translocation to the membrane to form a complex with NOX2. The inhibition of NOX2 activity reduces ROS-induced cytoskeletal remodeling, consequently stabilizing overall junctional alignment and preserving the BSCB integrity. Overall, our findings elucidate an MMP-independent mechanism through which TIMP1 regulates BSCB integrity in ALS context, suggesting that TIMP1 could serve as a novel tool for the treatment of ALS, particularly for prophylactic treatment in patients with familial ALS.},
}

@article {pmid40501612,
year = {2025},
author = {Bhuiyan, P and Yi, Y and Wei, B and Yan, A and Dong, L and Wei, H},
title = {Intranasal Dantrolene Nanoparticles for Treatment of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis as a Disease-Modifying Drug.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1101/2025.05.21.655232},
pmid = {40501612},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {Calcium dysregulation, caused by pathological activation of ryanodine receptors, contributes to motor neuron degeneration, motor dysfunction, and muscle weakness in SOD1-G93A transgenic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) mice. This study investigates the therapeutic efficacy of intranasally administered dantrolene nanoparticles, a ryanodine receptor antagonist, on motor neuron function, muscle strength, spinal cord degeneration, and survival outcomes. Male and female C57BL/6SJLF1 non-transgenic control and SOD1-G93A ALS transgenic mice were assigned to one of three experimental groups: 1) NO TX: No treatment control; 2) IN-DAN: Intranasal administration of dantrolene in the Ryanodex formulation vehicle (RFV), at a dosage of 5mg/kg, administered daily from ages 90-120 days; 3) IN-VEH: Intranasal administration of RFV alone (as a vehicle control), following the same dosing schedule as the IN-DAN condition. Body weight and general motor function were monitored weekly, with survival recorded daily throughout the treatment period. At the treatment conclusion, neurological function was comprehensively evaluated using a standardized neurological scoring system. Motor coordination and balance were assessed using the balance beam test (beam widths of 12 mm and 6 mm) and the rotarod test. Muscle strength was evaluated by measuring grip force using the Kondziela inverted screen test. After behavioral testing, spinal cord tissues were collected for analysis. The levels of neurofilament light chain (NFL), a skeletal neuron protein, and spinal cord weight were determined to measure spinal cord degeneration. Compared to non-transgenic control mice, SOD1-G93A mice exhibited significantly elevated neurological scores, indicating severely impaired neurological function. This deterioration was robustly and significantly ameliorated by IN-DAN treatment by 90% (P<0.0001). Similarly, ALS mice demonstrated impairments in motor coordination and balance on the beam balance test, with dramatic and significant increases in crossing time and the number of foot slips. These impairments were greatly and significantly mitigated by IN-DAN treatment, by 78% in crossing time (P<0.0001) and 84% in the number of slips (P<0.0001) on the 12 mm-wide beam, but not by the vehicle control. ALS mice demonstrated progressive body weight loss as well, which was similarly reversed by IN-DAN treatment, but not by the vehicle control. Muscle strength, as measured by grip force, was significantly reduced in ALS mice but robustly preserved IN-DAN treatment, which prevented the decrease by 213% (P<0.0001), while the vehicle control had no effect. Spinal cord weight was significantly reduced in ALS mice, a trend reversed by intranasal dantrolene nanoparticle treatment, but not by the vehicle control. Survival analysis revealed that 100% of control mice survived through the 30-day treatment period (up to 120 days of age), while survival in untreated or vehicle-treated ALS mice dropped to 67%. In contrast, ALS mice treated with intranasal dantrolene nanoparticles demonstrated a significantly improved survival rate of 89%. Thus, intranasal dantrolene nanoparticle treatment significantly and robustly improved neurological outcomes in SOD1-G93A ALS mice, inhibiting neurological impairment, motor dysfunction, balance deficits, and muscle weakness. These improvements were associated with a marked inhibition of spinal cord weight loss. Additionally, dantrolene treatment reversed body weight loss and significantly improved survival probability in ALS mice.},
}

@article {pmid40499018,
year = {2025},
author = {Yadav, V and Singh, R and Chaturvedi, M and Siddhanta, S and Chaturvedi, R},
title = {Multivariate and Machine Learning-Derived Virtual Staining and Biochemical Quantification of Cancer Cells through Raman Hyperspectral Imaging.},
journal = {Analytical chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.analchem.5c01028},
pmid = {40499018},
issn = {1520-6882},
abstract = {Advances in virtual staining and spatial omics have revolutionized our ability to explore cellular architecture and molecular composition with unprecedented detail. Virtual staining techniques, which rely on computational algorithms to map molecular or structural features, have emerged as powerful tools to visualize cellular components without the need for physical dyes, thereby preserving sample integrity. Similarly, spatial omics enable the mapping of biomolecules across tissue or cell surfaces, providing spatially resolved insights into biological processes. However, traditional dye-based staining methods, while widely used, come with significant limitations. In this context, Raman spectroscopy offers a robust, label-free alternative for probing molecular composition at a high resolution. We present a novel algorithm that reconstructs super-resolved Raman images by extracting spectral patterns from surrounding pixels, enabling detailed, label-free visualization of cellular structures. By employing Raman spectroscopy in conjunction with chemometric tools such as principal component analysis (PCA), multivariate curve resolution-alternating least squares (MCR-ALS), and artificial neural network (ANN), we performed a quantitative analysis of key biomolecular components, including collagen, lipids, glycogen, and nucleic acids, and classify the different cancer cell lines with an accuracy of nearly 99%. This approach not only enabled the identification of distinct molecular fingerprints across the different cancer types but also provided a powerful tool for understanding the biochemical variations that underlie tumor heterogeneity. This innovative combination of virtual staining, spatial omics, and advanced chemometrics highlights the potential for more accurate diagnostics and personalized treatment strategies in oncology.},
}

@article {pmid40498248,
year = {2025},
author = {Pahwa, R and Molho, E and Lew, M and Dashtipour, K and Gil, RA and Revilla, FJ and Clinch, T and Qin, P and Isaacson, SH and , },
title = {Long-Term Safety and Efficacy of Repeated Cycles of RimabotulinumtoxinB in the Treatment of Chronic Sialorrhea: Results of the OPTIMYST Trial.},
journal = {Neurology and therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40498248},
issn = {2193-8253},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Botulinum toxin injections into the salivary glands inhibit saliva production by reducing the release of acetylcholine at the parasympathetic nerve terminals within the salivary gland. The phase 3 study reported here assessed the safety, tolerability, and effectiveness of repeated cycles of rimabotulinumtoxinB (RIMA) injections in adults with troublesome sialorrhea.

METHODS: In this phase 3, open-label multicenter study, 187 adult participants with troublesome sialorrhea due to Parkinson disease (65.8%), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (13.9%), and other etiologies (20.3%) received up to 4 cycles of RIMA treatment (3500 U every 11-15 weeks).

RESULTS: Participants (69% male, 31% female; mean age 64.1 years) had sialorrhea for a mean of 3.2 years at baseline with a mean Unstimulated Salivary Flow Rate (USFR) of 0.63 ± 0.49 g/min. During the first treatment cycle, RIMA significantly reduced the mean±standard deviation (SD) USFR from baseline to week 4 by - 0.34 ± 0.37 g/min (p < 0.0001), and efficacy was maintained through week 13 (- 0.14 ± 0.29 g/min; p < 0.0001). Reductions were maintained at subsequent injection cycles 2-4, with mean absolute USFRs at weeks 4 and 13 of each cycle similar to those of cycle 1. Most adverse events (AEs) were mild, and the most commonly reported AEs in each cycle that were considered to be treatment-related were dry mouth (≤ 15.5% participants/cycle) and dental caries (≤ 6.0% participants/cycle).

CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that RIMA 3500 U safely reduces saliva production over repeated treatment cycles through 1 year, thereby supporting its utility in the management of troublesome sialorrhea in adults.

GOV IDENTIFIER: NCT02610868.},
}

@article {pmid40497426,
year = {2025},
author = {Bao, J and Zhou, J and Xie, Z and Zou, M and Napier, R and Li, J},
title = {CYP99A2 from Aegilops tauschii metabolizes pyroxsulam but not mesosulfuron-methyl, causing different natural sensitivity to two herbicides.},
journal = {Pest management science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ps.8967},
pmid = {40497426},
issn = {1526-4998},
support = {2021YFD1700100//National Key Research and Development Program/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Weed tolerance to herbicides poses a major threat to agricultural production. Aegilops tauschii has promising prospects for genetic development; however, the fact that this plant is invasive in China and other countries is often ignored owing to its pronounced adaptability. Among the current acetolactate synthase (ALS) inhibitors, only mesosulfuron-methyl (MM) can control A. tauschii, and pyroxsulam (P) is ineffective. However, a knowledge gap remains regarding differences in sensitivity of A. tauschii to these two ALS inhibitors.

RESULTS: We hypothesized that differences in sensitivity of A. tauschii to the ALS inhibitors MM and P are mediated by metabolic enzymes. Whole-plant experiments showed that the P450s inhibitor 1-Aminobenzotriazole (ABT) significantly increased the sensitivity of A. tauschii to P compared with MM. In A. tauschii, the P metabolism rate was higher than that of MMl, as detected by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. Transcriptome sequencing and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction identified seven differentially expressed P450s after P and MM treatments, three of which were upregulated after P treatment and were unaffected by MM. AtCYP99A2 reduced plant sensitivity to P by metabolizing P without affecting MM by overexpressing it in Arabidopsis and inducing in vitro protein expression.

CONCLUSION: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on P450 involvement in A. tauschii sensitivity to two ALS-inhibitor herbicides. This study deepens current understandings of A. tauschii and facilitates subsequent screening of specific metabolic enzyme inhibitors to be used as synergists in combination with herbicides, which will provide new avenues for weed control. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid40496636,
year = {2025},
author = {Qiao, H and Cheng, X and Tian, H and Zhao, C and Sun, X and Zhao, J},
title = {Lower cervical C6/C7 andersson lesion with upper cervical C1/C2 fracture in ankylosing spondylitis: a case report and literature review.},
journal = {Frontiers in surgery},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {1568553},
pmid = {40496636},
issn = {2296-875X},
abstract = {Cervical andersson lesions (ALs) are rare in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS), and even more rare in patients with simultaneous superior cervical atlantoaxial fracture and dislocation. Here, we present a case of C1 Jefferson fracture (C1 bilateral posterior arch fracture), C2 odontoid, lateral mass, vertebral fracture (nonclassic C2 hangman fracture), traumatic posterior atlantoaxial dislocation (AAD) and C6/C7 AL in a long-standing AS cervical spine. The patient with traumatic AS-related cervical fractures underwent a two-stage surgery. The stage I surgery involved a posterior atlantoaxial reduction and fixation surgery combined with C5/C6/T1/T2 posterior pedicle screw fixation plus C6/C7 decompression. One week later, C6/C7 anterior cervical corpectomy decompression and fusion (ACCF) with long anterior plate stabilization combined with iliac crest bone graft transplantation was performed for stage II surgery. The patient recovery observed during follow-up was satisfactory. Nine-month postoperative radiological images revealed fracture union of the upper and lower cervical spine with optimal reduction of the atlantoaxial segment. In conclusion, lower cervical ALs with simultaneous upper cervical C1/C2 fractures in the AS are very rare. Posterior C1-C2 fixation combined with C6-C7 AL corpectomy/fusion and posterior pedicle screw fixation may offer a desirable alternative approach for this complex case of cervical trauma. During treatment, complete decompression, effective reduction, and potent stabilization can comprehensively improve the clinical prognosis.},
}

@article {pmid40496257,
year = {2025},
author = {Ding, LH and Wu, PF and Sun, NZ},
title = {Investigation of clinical outcomes in conservative management of hook fractures: Commentary on recent findings.},
journal = {World journal of orthopedics},
volume = {16},
number = {5},
pages = {106881},
pmid = {40496257},
issn = {2218-5836},
abstract = {This editorial critically evaluates the landmark study by Tanaka and Yoshii, which demonstrated a 100% union rate with conservative management of hamate hook fractures, challenging the historical preference for surgical intervention. In contrast to Scheufle et al's report of 90%-100% failure rates with early surgical approaches, Tanaka and Yoshii's protocol achieved universal healing despite delayed diagnoses in 25% of cases. Central to this success is the systematic integration of high-resolution computed tomography for early diagnosis and dynamic monitoring of trabecular bone regeneration, significantly reducing missed diagnoses and guiding personalized immobilization timelines. The patient-centered strategy-allowing temporary splint removal during low-risk activities-balanced fracture stability with joint mobility preservation, avoiding post-treatment stiffness. However, limitations such as small sample size (n = 16), selection bias, and insufficient long-term functional data (e.g., grip strength, return-to-sport metrics) underscore the need for comparative trials. Emerging trends, including adjunct therapies like low-intensity pulsed ultrasound and biologics (e.g., teriparatide), are proposed to accelerate healing while minimizing immobilization risks. This work redefines conservative fracture management paradigms, emphasizing innovation without compromising efficacy. Overall, this assessment deepens our understanding of the conservative management of hook fractures and provides evidence-based insights for improved clinical decision-making.},
}

@article {pmid40492044,
year = {2025},
author = {Roshni, J and Mahema, S and Janakiraman, V and Ahmad, SF and Al-Mazroua, HA and Ahmed, SSSJ},
title = {Effect of bovine milk-derived peptide on SNAP-25 of the neurotransmitter system in treating the sialorrhoea in chronic neurological diseases.},
journal = {Food science and biotechnology},
volume = {34},
number = {11},
pages = {2601-2610},
pmid = {40492044},
issn = {2092-6456},
abstract = {Sialorrhea is a prominent symptom of chronic neurological disorders like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, motor neuron disease, cerebral palsy, and stroke. Synaptosome-Associated Protein-25 (SNAP-25) plays a key role in triggering involuntary saliva secretion. This study aimed to identify SNAP-25-targeting bovine milk-derived peptides to mitigate sialorrhea, using computational and quantum atomistic simulation approach. Among 8559 bovine milk-derived peptides, 8499 were non-toxic, 7749 non-allergenic, 911 with blood-brain barrier crossing potential, and 175 with cell-penetrating capabilities. Using HAPPENN program, 20 non-hemolytic peptides were screened, while PeptideRanker predicted two physiologically active peptides. Protein-peptide docking followed by de novo structural modeling showed that CMPTFQFFK has a stronger inhibitory affinity (- 7.45 kcal/mol) for SNAP-25 than botulinum toxin. Additionally, dynamic simulations, free energy and quantum chemical studies confirmed the stability of CMPTFQFFK's with SNAP-25. Our study recommends CMPTFQFFK as a potential inhibitor of SNAP-25 for sialorrhea treatment, with further in vitro testing needed to confirm efficacy.},
}

@article {pmid40492022,
year = {2025},
author = {Ennis, R and Husted, C},
title = {Case Report: Treating Atrial Fibrillation with the Neubie Direct Current Electrical Stimulation.},
journal = {Medical devices (Auckland, N.Z.)},
volume = {18},
number = {},
pages = {291-295},
pmid = {40492022},
issn = {1179-1470},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: A novel Neuro-Bio-Electric-Stimulation device (Neubie, Neufit, Austin, Texas, USA) using Direct Current (DC) has been used to treat various neurological conditions (ALS, MS, peripheral neuropathy, chronic pain) and functional limitations such as limited range of motion. One method, called the Master Reset Protocol, is thought to stimulate the vagus nerve system, impacting heart rate, digestion and other vital systems.

PURPOSE: We used the Master Reset Protocol on a subject experiencing paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) to assess whether this treatment might be effective in reversing a cardiac arrhythmia.

SUBJECT AND METHODS: A single subject is reported in this Case Report. The subject is a 62-year-old healthy, athletic male, 6'2″ tall, 165 lbs. with a good diet and is not obese nor has other exacerbating underlying conditions related to heart disease. The subject experiences arrhythmia approximately 1-2 times per month lasting generally 3 or more days per the subject. The Master Reset Method was initiated within 12 hours of arrhythmia onset, and arrhythmia before and after treatment was confirmed through subject observation and confirmed with pulse readings. A total of ten treatments were conducted over 7 months.

RESULTS: Reversal of arrhythmia was confirmed during or within 24 hours of treatment with DC application for all 10 treatments (100%). Two of the more severe cases of AFib required two treatments on the same day with confirmed reversal of AFib.

CONCLUSION: Treatment with Direct Current suggests a good correlation with reversal of arrhythmia. Further studies are planned to determine if similar, regular, treatments can be effective in preventing arrhythmia.},
}

@article {pmid40491620,
year = {2025},
author = {Sue, S and Yamazaki, S and Sue, K and Kinoshita, T and Yoshida, K},
title = {Combined Effects of Lung Volume Recruitment Training and Mechanical Insufflation-Exsufflation in a Patient With Advanced Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Receiving Long-Term Mechanical Ventilation: A Case Report.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {5},
pages = {e83823},
pmid = {40491620},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) degenerates both upper and lower motor neurons. Most patients with ALS require respiratory support due to deterioration of their respiratory muscles. Mechanical insufflation-exsufflation (MI-E) is one option that can help patients with weak cough strength to clear the airway, and it may potentially increase survival time. Another option is lung volume recruitment training (LVRT), a technique commonly used to maintain lung and chest wall flexibility. However, it requires specific equipment, such as one-way valves, to be applied to patients with ALS who undergo invasive mechanical ventilation with tracheostomy. Only limited studies have indicated the effectiveness of LVRT for patients with ALS. Moreover, no study is currently available on the effect of combining LVRT with MI-E. As the disease progresses, treatment options become increasingly limited, making it crucial to explore new therapeutic approaches for patients at the advanced stage. Here, we examined the effects of a combination of LVRT and MI-E in a 74-year-old female patient with ALS who had survived under invasive mechanical ventilation for nine years. We measured tidal volume (TV) and dynamic lung compliance (Cdyn) as respiratory parameters three months before and after the initiation of the combined therapy. Following the intervention, TV improved from 750.15 L/min (standard deviation (SD) ± 34.60) to 859.14 L/min (SD ± 75.63), and Cdyn increased from 24.18 cmH2O (SD ± 2.84) to 26.54 cmH2O (SD ± 2.92). These results suggest that MI-E combined with LVRT may improve lung compliance even in patients with ALS receiving long-term invasive mechanical ventilation.},
}

@article {pmid40491248,
year = {2025},
author = {Bernsen, S and Fabian, R and Koc, Y and Schumann, P and Körtvélyessy, P and Castro-Gomez, S and Meyer, T and Weydt, P},
title = {Serum Cardiac Troponin T Levels as a Therapy Response Marker in Tofersen-Treated ALS.},
journal = {Muscle & nerve},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/mus.28453},
pmid = {40491248},
issn = {1097-4598},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION/AIMS: Cardiac troponin T (cTnT) levels are elevated in the majority of persons with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and increase over time. Neurofilament light chain (NfL) is an established therapy response biomarker in ALS as superoxide dismutase1 (SOD1)-ALS patients treated with the antisense oligonucleotide tofersen show a decrease in NfL. In this study, we assess cTnT levels in SOD1-ALS at baseline and during tofersen treatment.

METHODS: cTnT was analyzed at baseline and during tofersen treatment in 23 SOD1-ALS patients at two specialized ALS centers in Germany and compared to a control cohort of 74 ALS patients without SOD1 variants.

RESULTS: cTnT levels increased in the control ALS cohort over time (p < 0.0001) but not in the tofersen group (p = 0.36). Creatine kinase (CK) and CK-MB levels did not show significant changes over time. The median monthly increase of cTnT was 0.045 points (IQR 0.02-0.08) in the control ALS cohort and 0.01 points (IQR -0.01-0.03) in the tofersen group (p = 0.0013). A significantly lower fold change in cTnT levels was observed in the tofersen-treated cohort (median 1.2; IQR 0.77-1.59) relative to the control group (median 1.89; IQR 1.35-2.75) (p = 0.0003). Nine (39%) patients treated with tofersen experienced a reduction in cTnT levels.

DISCUSSION: In this study, we describe a response signal of cTnT to tofersen treatment, which supports the value of cTnT as an independent biomarker in ALS. These results contribute to the notion that cTnT may provide additional value as a progression and treatment response biomarker in ALS complementary to NfL and warrant further investigation.},
}

@article {pmid40488810,
year = {2025},
author = {Kulkarni, SR and Thokchom, B and Abbigeri, MB and Bhavi, SM and Singh, SR and Metri, N and Yarajarla, RB},
title = {The role of L-DOPA in neurological and neurodegenerative complications: a review.},
journal = {Molecular and cellular biochemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40488810},
issn = {1573-4919},
abstract = {L-DOPA remains a cornerstone treatment for Parkinson's disease and is increasingly recognized for its role in various neurological and neurodegenerative disorders. As a direct precursor to dopamine, L-DOPA is synthesized from L-tyrosine through the action of tyrosine hydroxylase and is subsequently converted into dopamine via aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase. Its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) makes it a crucial therapeutic agent for restoring dopaminergic neurotransmission, thereby influencing motor function, cognition, and neuroprotection. Beyond Parkinson's, L-DOPA's therapeutic potential extends to neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, multiple sclerosis, Lewy body dementia, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, where dopamine modulation plays a critical role. Furthermore, L-DOPA has demonstrated efficacy in neurological disorders including epilepsy, peripheral neuropathy, cerebrovascular diseases, and traumatic brain injury, suggesting broader neurobiological applications. However, long-term use is associated with challenges such as motor fluctuations, dyskinesias, and loss of therapeutic efficacy due to progressive neurodegeneration and alterations in dopaminergic pathways. Recent advancements in drug delivery systems, combination therapies, and nanotechnology, including plant-derived carbon dots, offer promising strategies to enhance L-DOPA's effectiveness while mitigating its limitations. This comprehensive review explores L-DOPA's synthesis, pharmacokinetics, mechanism of action, and its evolving role in neurological diseases, while highlighting ongoing challenges and future directions for optimizing its clinical application.},
}

@article {pmid40487949,
year = {2025},
author = {Kumar, S},
title = {Nomogram-based strategy to predict relapse-free survival in patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumor using inflammatory indicators.},
journal = {World journal of gastrointestinal oncology},
volume = {17},
number = {5},
pages = {103127},
pmid = {40487949},
issn = {1948-5204},
abstract = {Zhao et al's investigation on the assessment of inflammatory markers prognostic value for relapse-free survival in patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) using a nomogram-based approach is a scientific approach. This study explored the potential of an inflammatory marker-based nomograph model, highlighting the relapse-free survival-associated risk factors prognostic potential in patients with GIST. The author assessed 124 samples from patients with GIST to find an association between inflammatory markers and tumor size in a retrospective study using multivariate regression analysis. Further, a nomogram model was developed to identify the independent risk factors for the prognosis. GIST clinical treatment can use preoperative monocyte/lymphocyte ratio and platelet/lymphocyte ratio for relapse-free survival prognosis as independent factors.},
}

@article {pmid40485888,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, Y and Ren, Y and Song, P},
title = {Traditional Chinese medicine for intractable and rare diseases: Research progress and future strategies.},
journal = {Intractable & rare diseases research},
volume = {14},
number = {2},
pages = {109-121},
pmid = {40485888},
issn = {2186-3644},
abstract = {Rare diseases have become a global public health challenge due to their low prevalence, difficult diagnosis, and limited treatment options. Intractable diseases are more common but often involve complex mechanisms, treatment with limited efficacy, and high medical costs, placing a heavy burden on patients and healthcare systems. In recent years, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has demonstrated unique advantages in the treatment of intractable and rare diseases and has gradually become an important complementary treatment. The current work is a systematic review of the progress of clinical and experimental research on TCM in typical rare diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, aplastic anemia (AA), and Wilson's disease (WD). It focuses on the multi-target therapeutic mechanisms of key Chinese herbal compound formulas, including immune regulation, antioxidative stress, and neuroprotection. The core TCM theories of "syndrome differentiation", "different treatments for the same disease" and the "same treatment for different diseases" are also discussed in the context of personalized medicine. In recent years, China has continuously promoted the development of TCM through a series of national plans and supportive policies, such as the 14th Five-Year Plan for TCM development, funding for key special projects, expedited approval pathways, and expanded coverage by medical insurance. These efforts have provided strong support for the clinical translation of TCM and technological innovation in the field of intractable and rare diseases. Notwithstanding the encouraging advances, the field of Chinese medicine continues to grapple with numerous challenges. In the future, the enhancement of mechanistic studies and quality multicenter clinical trials needs to be promoted while further enhancing policy support and international collaboration to substantiate the scientific basis and clinical value of TCM in the prevention and treatment of intractable and rare diseases.},
}

@article {pmid40485494,
year = {2025},
author = {Genge, A and Pattee, GL and Sobue, G and Aoki, M and Yoshino, H and Couratier, P and Lunetta, C and Petri, S and Selness, D and Todorovic, V and Sasson, N and Hirai, M and Takahashi, F and Salah, A and Apple, S and Wamil, A and Kalin, A and Jackson, CE},
title = {Safety Extension Study of Edaravone Oral Suspension in Patients With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis for up to an Additional 96 Weeks of Treatment.},
journal = {Muscle & nerve},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/mus.28451},
pmid = {40485494},
issn = {1097-4598},
support = {//Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America Inc/ ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION/AIMS: Edaravone intravenous (IV) and oral suspension have been shown to have similar pharmacokinetics, safety, and slowing of functional decline in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Study MT-1186-A01 indicated that edaravone oral suspension was well-tolerated over 48 weeks, with no new safety concerns identified relative to existing safety data of IV edaravone, including Study MCI186-19. The aim of this study was to assess the long-term safety and tolerability of edaravone oral suspension in patients with ALS.

METHODS: Study MT-1186-A03 (NCT04577404) was a phase 3, open-label, multi-center, extension study that evaluated the long-term safety of edaravone oral suspension over an additional 96 weeks in patients with ALS who have completed the initial 48 weeks of Study MT-1186-A01, for a total of up to 144 weeks of treatment. Patients received a 105-mg dose of edaravone administered in treatment cycles identical to the approved edaravone on/off dosing schedule. Patients had definite, probable, probable-laboratory-supported, or possible ALS.

RESULTS: In Study MT-1186-A03, edaravone oral suspension was well tolerated with no new safety concerns. The most common treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were fall, muscular weakness, dyspnea, constipation, and dysphagia. These TEAEs were consistent with the safety profile for edaravone from previous clinical trials.

DISCUSSION: These results help establish the long-term safety and tolerability profile of edaravone oral suspension.},
}

@article {pmid40482733,
year = {2025},
author = {Ting, CH and Tai, ST and Chang, HY and Huang, PY and Jeng, LF and Lai, HJ and Kuo, YC and Kao, CH and Wang, IF and Tsai, LK},
title = {Baicalein benefits amyotrophic lateral sclerosis via reduction of Intraneuronal misfolded protein.},
journal = {Biochimica et biophysica acta. General subjects},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {130831},
doi = {10.1016/j.bbagen.2025.130831},
pmid = {40482733},
issn = {1872-8006},
abstract = {Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rapidly progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by muscle weakness and atrophy, with limited treatment options. The accumulation of misfolded proteins, such as misfolded superoxide dismutase 1 (mSOD1), contributes significantly to neuronal degeneration in ALS. Therapies targeting misfolded proteins represent a promising strategy. Baicalein, a flavonoid compound with neuroprotective properties, has shown efficacy in clearing misfolded proteins and improving behaviors in rodent models of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. However, its effects in ALS remain largely unexplored. This study demonstrated that baicalein treatment reduced total and misfolded SOD1 protein levels in both soluble and insoluble fractions of a motor neuron cell line overexpressing mutant SOD1. Baicalein also reduced intracellular SOD1 aggregates in cultured motor neurons transfected with SOD1/G93A, preserving neurite length. In an ALS mouse model expressing the SOD1/G93A transgene, baicalein treatment decreased mSOD1 aggregation, increased spinal motor neuron density, and reduced neuromuscular junction denervation. Furthermore, baicalein partially improved motor behaviors, as assessed by the rotarod test. These findings highlight baicalein's potential as a therapeutic agent for ALS, targeting intraneuronal misfolded proteins to ameliorate pathological changes and preserve motor function.},
}

@article {pmid40482593,
year = {2025},
author = {Tankisi, H and Jacobsen, AB and Fanella, G and Cengiz, B and Kılınç, H and Matamala, JM and Moreno-Roco, J and Abrahao, A and Zinman, L and Koltzenburg, M and Howells, J and Samusyte, G and Awiszus, F and Bostock, H},
title = {Short-interval intracortical inhibition and facilitation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis related to disease phenotype.},
journal = {Clinical neurophysiology : official journal of the International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology},
volume = {176},
number = {},
pages = {2110770},
doi = {10.1016/j.clinph.2025.2110770},
pmid = {40482593},
issn = {1872-8952},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between short-interval intracortical inhibition (SICI), short-interval intracortical facilitation (SICF) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) phenotype, using threshold-tracking transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).

METHODS: A new paired-pulse TMS protocol was applied to 49 patients with ALS and 49 age-matched healthy controls. Motor evoked potentials (MEPs) were recorded from first dorsal interosseus muscle, while paired pulses were delivered at interstimulus intervals (ISI) of 1.0, 2.5 or 3.0 ms, with stimuli related to the resting motor threshold for a 200 µV MEP. For each ISI, 6 SICI and 3 SICF pulse pairs with different conditioning stimuli were randomised and interleaved with test-alone stimuli.

RESULTS: ALS phenotypes were characterised as Pyramidal (n = 12, with prominent upper motor neuron signs), Classic (n = 20, with limb onset), or Bulbar (n = 17). Compared with healthy controls, Bulbar patients had significantly less inhibition at all ISIs, while SICI in Pyramidal patients was normal, and in Classic patients intermediate. The only SICF abnormalities independent of the changes in SICI were less facilitation in Pyramidal patients at ISIs 1 and 3 ms.

CONCLUSION: Changes in SICI and SICF depend on ALS phenotype.

SIGNIFICANCE: ALS phenotypes should be matched between treatment and placebo arms of clinical trials.},
}

@article {pmid40480675,
year = {2025},
author = {Reitzle, L and Rohmann, JL and Kurth, T and Audebert, HJ and Piccininni, M},
title = {External validation of risk prediction models for post-stroke mortality in Berlin.},
journal = {BMJ open},
volume = {15},
number = {6},
pages = {e089320},
doi = {10.1136/bmjopen-2024-089320},
pmid = {40480675},
issn = {2044-6055},
mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Female ; Aged ; Berlin/epidemiology ; Registries ; Risk Assessment/methods ; *Stroke/mortality ; Hospital Mortality ; Aged, 80 and over ; Middle Aged ; Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Prediction models for post-stroke mortality can support medical decision-making. Although numerous models have been developed, external validation studies determining the models' transportability beyond the original settings are lacking. We aimed to assess the performance of two prediction models for post-stroke mortality in Berlin, Germany.

DESIGN: We used data from the Berlin-SPecific Acute Treatment in Ischaemic or hAemorrhagic stroke with Long-term follow-up (B-SPATIAL) registry.

SETTING: Multicentre stroke registry in Berlin, Germany.

PARTICIPANTS: Adult patients admitted within 6 hours after symptom onset and with a 10th revision of the International Classification of Diseases discharge diagnosis of ischaemic stroke, haemorrhagic stroke or transient ischaemic attack at one of 15 hospitals with stroke units between 1 January 2016 and 31 January 2021.

PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES: We evaluated calibration (calibration-in-the-large, intercept, slope and plot) and discrimination performance (c-statistic) of Bray et al's 30-day mortality and Smith et al's in-hospital mortality prediction models. Information on mortality was supplemented by Berlin city registration office records.

RESULTS: For the validation of Bray et al's model, we included 7879 patients (mean age 75; 55.0% men). We observed 763 (9.7%) deaths within 30 days of stroke compared with 680 (8.6%) predicted. The model's c-statistic was 0.865 (95% CI: 0.851 to 0.879). For Smith et al's model, we performed the validation among 1931 patients (mean age 75; 56.2% men), observing 105 (5.4%) in-hospital deaths compared with the 92 (4.8%) predicted. The c-statistic was 0.891 (95% CI: 0.864 to 0.918). The calibration plots of both models revealed an underestimation of the mortality risk for high-risk patients.

CONCLUSIONS: Among Berlin stroke patients, both models showed good calibration performance for low and medium-risk patients and high discrimination while underestimating risk among high-risk patients. The acceptable performance of Bray et al's model in Berlin illustrates how a small number of routinely collected variables can be sufficient for valid prediction of post-stroke mortality.},
}

Humans
Male
Female
Aged
Berlin/epidemiology
Registries
Risk Assessment/methods
*Stroke/mortality
Hospital Mortality
Aged, 80 and over
Middle Aged
Risk Factors

@article {pmid40480222,
year = {2025},
author = {Oldani, EG and Reynolds Caicedo, KM and Spaeth Herda, ME and Sachs, AH and Chapman, EG and Kumar, S and Linseman, DA and Horowitz, S},
title = {The effect of G-quadruplexes on TDP43 condensation, distribution, and toxicity.},
journal = {Structure (London, England : 1993)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.str.2025.05.006},
pmid = {40480222},
issn = {1878-4186},
abstract = {Many proteins implicated in neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., trans-active response DNA binding protein 43 kDa [TDP43]) interact with nucleic acids, including RNA G-quadruplexes (G4s). We here investigate whether RNA G4s play a role in TDP43 condensation in biophysical and cellular models. We find that G4s modulate TDP43 aggregation in vitro and condensation in multiple cell types, including yeast, HEK293T, and motor-neuron-like NSC-34 cells. In yeast cells, treatment with G4s causes increased TDP43 accumulation in cells before cellular death. In HEK293T cells expressing TDP43, incubation with G4-binding small molecules causes an increase in G4 stability that also stabilizes TDP43 and reduces TDP43 condensation induced by proteasomal or oxidative stress. Finally, in NSC-34 cells overexpressing exogenous TDP43, we show that G4s co-localize with TDP43 condensates under stress conditions, and treatment with G4-binding small molecules decreases TDP43-mediated toxicity. Together, these findings suggest exploring treating protein misfolding diseases by targeting specific RNA structures such as G4s.},
}

@article {pmid40475252,
year = {2025},
author = {Seyedi Asl, FS and Malverdi, N and Ataei Kachouei, FS and Zarei, F and Ghiabi, S and Baziyar, P and Nabi-Afjadi, M},
title = {Inhibitory effect of Fisetin against the aggregation process of SOD1 E100K mutant: computer-based drug design as a potential therapeutic for ALS disease.},
journal = {Frontiers in chemistry},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1569777},
pmid = {40475252},
issn = {2296-2646},
abstract = {Protein misfolding and aggregation in superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) are linked to the neurodegenerative disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). SOD1 mutations have a significant role in the pathophysiology and fast behavior of protopathic proteins in ALS illness. The E100K mutation may be useful in uncovering the pathogenic mechanism of SOD1 associated with ALS. According to several studies, giving small molecule inhibitors made from polyphenolic flavonoid compounds may be a viable treatment strategy for neurological conditions. Using molecular docking and MD simulations, we have identified a potential flavonoid drug that may successfully inhibit SOD1's amyloidogenic activity. Puerarin, Fisetin, and Peonidin provided intriguing pharmacological hints during the initial screening of flavonoids. The Fisetin-E100K complex had a larger residual energy contribution and substantial binding than other flavonoid compounds. The findings showed that, unlike other materials, Fisetin increased the structural stability, hydrophobicity, and flexibility of the mutant while reducing the amount of β-sheets. Furthermore, to distinguish aggregation in the mutant (unbound/bound) states, we displayed modifications in the free energy landscape (FEL). As a result, Fisetin was identified as having therapeutic potential against the E100K, which might make it a viable pharmacological option for the creation of inhibitors that lower the chance of ALS death.},
}

@article {pmid40474686,
year = {2025},
author = {Rothstein, J and Genge, A and De Silva, S and Zinman, L and Chum, M and Chio, A and Sobue, G and Aoki, M and Yoshino, H and Doyu, M and Selness, D and Todorovic, V and Sasson, N and Hirai, M and Takahashi, F and Salah, A and Wamil, A and Apple, S},
title = {Efficacy and Safety of Once Daily Dosing vs. Approved On/Off Dosing of Edaravone Oral Suspension Up to 48 Weeks in Patients With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (Study MT-1186-A02).},
journal = {Muscle & nerve},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/mus.28448},
pmid = {40474686},
issn = {1097-4598},
support = {//Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America Inc./ ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION/AIMS: An On/Off dosing regimen of intravenous (IV) edaravone and edaravone oral suspension is approved in the US for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Placebo-controlled clinical trials showed IV edaravone slows the rate of physical functional decline. This study evaluated whether investigational daily dosing displayed superior efficacy vs. approved on/off dosing of edaravone oral suspension, and assessed safety and tolerability, over 48 weeks in patients with ALS.

METHODS: Study MT-1186-A02 (NCT04569084) was a multicenter, phase 3b, double-blind, parallel group, superiority study that randomized patients to edaravone oral suspension (105-mg dose) administered Once Daily or the same edaravone oral suspension dose administered according to the approved On/Off regimen including placebo to mimic daily drug dosing. Patients had definite or probable ALS, baseline forced vital capacity ≥ 70%, and baseline disease duration ≤ 2 years. The primary endpoint was a combined assessment of function and survival (CAFS) at week 48, which included change in ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R) and time to death.

RESULTS: CAFS at week 48 indicated Once Daily dosing did not show a statistically significant difference vs. approved on/off dosing (p = 0.777). Both dosing regimens provided comparable change from baseline ALSFRS-R total score to week 48 (least squares mean difference: 0.27 [95% CI -1.43 to 1.97]). Edaravone oral suspension was well tolerated, and no new safety concerns were identified in either group.

DISCUSSION: Daily edaravone oral suspension did not show superiority and had equivalent safety and tolerability vs. the approved On/Off regimen, reinforcing the appropriateness of the approved dosing regimen.},
}

@article {pmid40464500,
year = {2025},
author = {Dedoni, S and Avdoshina, V and Olianas, MC and Onali, P},
title = {Role of Lysophosphatidic Acid in Neurological Diseases: From Pathophysiology to Therapeutic Implications.},
journal = {Frontiers in bioscience (Landmark edition)},
volume = {30},
number = {5},
pages = {28245},
doi = {10.31083/FBL28245},
pmid = {40464500},
issn = {2768-6698},
mesh = {Humans ; *Lysophospholipids/metabolism ; *Nervous System Diseases/physiopathology/metabolism/drug therapy ; Animals ; Receptors, Lysophosphatidic Acid/metabolism ; Signal Transduction ; },
abstract = {Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), a bioactive lipid molecule, has been identified as a critical regulator of several cellular processes in the central nervous system, with significant impacts on neuronal function, synaptic plasticity, and neuroinflammatory responses. While Alzheimer's disease, Multiple Sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease have garnered considerable attention due to their incidence and socioeconomic significance, many additional neurological illnesses remain unclear in terms of underlying pathophysiology and prospective treatment targets. This review synthesizes evidence linking LPA's function in neurological diseases such as traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, cerebellar ataxia, cerebral ischemia, seizures, Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome, autism, migraine, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated complications Despite recent advances, the specific mechanisms underlying LPA's actions in various neurological disorders remain unknown, and further research is needed to understand the distinct roles of LPA across multiple disease conditions, as well as to investigate the therapeutic potential of targeting LPA receptors in these pathologies. The purpose of this review is to highlight the multiple functions of LPA in the aforementioned neurological diseases, which frequently share the same poor prognosis due to a scarcity of truly effective therapies, while also evaluating the role of LPA, its receptors, and signaling as promising actors for the development of alternative therapeutic strategies to those proposed today.},
}

Humans
*Lysophospholipids/metabolism
*Nervous System Diseases/physiopathology/metabolism/drug therapy
Animals
Receptors, Lysophosphatidic Acid/metabolism
Signal Transduction

@article {pmid40464332,
year = {2025},
author = {Naim, A and Farooqui, AM and Badruddeen, and Khan, MI and Akhtar, J and Ahmad, A and Islam, A},
title = {The Role of Kinases in Neurodegenerative Diseases: From Pathogenesis to Treatment.},
journal = {The European journal of neuroscience},
volume = {61},
number = {11},
pages = {e70156},
doi = {10.1111/ejn.70156},
pmid = {40464332},
issn = {1460-9568},
mesh = {Humans ; *Neurodegenerative Diseases/enzymology/drug therapy/metabolism ; Animals ; *Protein Kinases/metabolism ; Protein Kinase Inhibitors/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by progressive neuronal loss and dysfunction, with protein kinases playing crucial roles in their pathogenesis. This article explores the involvement of protein kinases in these disorders, focusing on their contributions to disease mechanisms, potential as therapeutic targets and challenges in developing effective treatments. In Alzheimer's disease, kinases such as CDK5, GSK3β and MARK4 are implicated in tau hyperphosphorylation and the formation of neurofibrillary tangles. Kinases also regulate amyloid-β processing and plaque formation. In Parkinson's disease, LRRK2, PINK1 and other kinases contribute to α-synuclein pathology, mitochondrial dysfunction and neuroinflammation. LRRK2 inhibitors and PROTACs have shown promise in preclinical models. Huntington's disease involves altered kinase activity, with CK2, GSK3 and MAPK pathways influencing mutant huntingtin toxicity and aggregation. Kinases are also implicated in less common neurodegenerative diseases, such as ALS and spinocerebellar ataxias. Despite the therapeutic potential of targeting kinases, challenges remain, including the complexity of kinase networks, blood-brain barrier permeability and the lack of robust biomarkers. Emerging technologies, such as covalent inhibitors, targeted protein degradation and combination therapies, offer new avenues for addressing these challenges and developing more effective treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.},
}

Humans
*Neurodegenerative Diseases/enzymology/drug therapy/metabolism
Animals
*Protein Kinases/metabolism
Protein Kinase Inhibitors/therapeutic use

@article {pmid40462117,
year = {2025},
author = {Akif, A and Nguyen, TTM and Liu, L and Xu, X and Kulkarni, A and Jiang, J and Zhang, Y and Hao, J},
title = {Targeting NLRP3 signaling with a novel sulfonylurea compound for the treatment of vascular cognitive impairment and dementia.},
journal = {Fluids and barriers of the CNS},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {55},
pmid = {40462117},
issn = {2045-8118},
support = {R21NS133895-01//National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)/ ; R01NS105787//National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: As a key inflammatory factor, the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome plays a crucial role in neuroinflammation and the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Dysregulation of NLRP3 signaling can trigger various inflammatory responses in the brain, contributing to the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as ischemic stroke, vascular dementia (VaD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Therefore, the NLRP3 signaling pathway is a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, including VaD.

METHODS: In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of a synthetic sulfonylurea NLRP3 inhibitor, AMS-17, in a VaD mouse model using bilateral common carotid artery stenosis (BCAS) and elucidated the underlying mechanisms. All mice were randomly divided into three groups: Sham, VaD + Vehicle, and VaD + AMS-17. Cognitive function was assessed using the Y-maze and Morris water maze (MWM) on the 50th day after BCAS. Brain sections and blood serum samples were collected for biomarker analysis and immunohistochemistry. Neurodegeneration, expressions of the molecules involved in the NLRP3 signaling pathways, tight junction proteins, and myelination were assessed using western blotting and immunofluorescence (IF). The levels of Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α) and Interleukin-4 (IL-4) in the blood were measured using ELISA.

RESULTS: AMS-17 treatment improved cognitive function, enhanced blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity, and promoted remyelination in VaD mice. Additionally, AMS-17 reduced neurodegeneration and decreased the expression of NLRP3 and its associated proteins, Apoptosis-associated speck-like protein (ASC), and cleaved caspase-1 in the brain. It also lowered pro-inflammatory TNF-α and IL-1β levels, while increasing the anti-inflammatory IL-4 level in the blood.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this study provide the first promising evidence for the use of AMS-17 in VaD treatment in mice. This study introduces AMS-17 as a novel chemical scaffold with NLRP3 inhibitory activity, which can be further developed for the treatment of VaD in humans.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.},
}

@article {pmid40460337,
year = {2025},
author = {van Unnik, JWJ and Ing, L and Oliveira Santos, M and McDermott, CJ and de Carvalho, M and van Eijk, RPA},
title = {Remote Monitoring of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Using Digital Health Technologies: Shifting Toward Digitalized Care and Research?.},
journal = {Neurology},
volume = {105},
number = {1},
pages = {e213738},
doi = {10.1212/WNL.0000000000213738},
pmid = {40460337},
issn = {1526-632X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/therapy/diagnosis ; *Telemedicine ; Wearable Electronic Devices ; Videoconferencing ; Digital Technology ; *Biomedical Technology ; Monitoring, Physiologic/methods ; Digital Health ; },
abstract = {Current care and research pathways for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) primarily rely on regularly scheduled visits to specialized centers. These visits provide intermittent clinical information to health care professionals and require patients to travel to the clinic. Digital health technologies enable continuous data collection directly from the patient's home, bringing new opportunities for personalized, timely care and a refined assessment of disease severity in clinical trials. In this review, we summarize the state of the art in digital health technologies for remote monitoring of patients with ALS, ranging from televisits through videoconferencing to sensor-based wearable devices. We explore how these technologies can benefit clinical care and advance treatment development. Despite significant progress, real-world adoption of these technologies remains limited. An overview is provided of the key barriers hindering their widespread implementation and the opportunities to advance the field. Significantly, there is an urgent need for harmonization across stakeholders through consensus guidelines and consortia. These efforts are essential to accelerate progress and harness the full potential of digital health technologies to better meet the needs of patients.},
}

Humans
*Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/therapy/diagnosis
*Telemedicine
Wearable Electronic Devices
Videoconferencing
Digital Technology
*Biomedical Technology
Monitoring, Physiologic/methods
Digital Health

@article {pmid40459635,
year = {2025},
author = {Abraham, I and Martin, P and Vaghela, S and Klein, T and Chow, E and Rush, M and Morlock, R and Huang, H},
title = {Budget impact analysis of revumenib for the treatment of relapsed or refractory acute leukemias with a KMT2A translocation in the United States.},
journal = {Journal of managed care & specialty pharmacy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-14},
doi = {10.18553/jmcp.2025.25027},
pmid = {40459635},
issn = {2376-1032},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Acute leukemias (ALs), including acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), are heterogeneous diseases characterized by different phenotypic, genetic, and molecular alterations that can guide treatment decisions. ALs harboring lysine methyltransferase 2A gene translocation (KMT2t), previously known as mixed-lineage leukemia, are associated with high rates of relapsed or refractory (R/R) disease. Revumenib, a first-in-class oral menin inhibitor, has shown improved clinical outcomes in patients with R/R KMT2At ALs.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate, using a budget impact model (BIM), the financial impact of introducing revumenib for the treatment of adult patients with R/R KMT2At ALs on the formulary of a hypothetical US 1-million-member commercial health plan.

METHODS: The BIM compared scenarios with or without revumenib and the resulting impact on commercial US third-party payers over a 3-year time horizon. Although no other therapies specifically targeted for R/R KMT2At ALs were approved during BIM development, 11 additional pharmacotherapies for R/R ALs (5 for AML and 6 for ALL, not including revumenib) were included as treatment options in the model. Clinical data included adverse event (AE) rates, duration of treatment, time to subsequent treatment, and survival outcomes. Cost inputs (USD 2024) included in the model comprised drug acquisition and administration, grade 3 or greater AEs, treatment-related supportive care and monitoring, subsequent treatment, and end-of-life costs. The differential cost per member per month (PMPM) was estimated. One-way sensitivity analyses varying the costs of drug acquisition and toxicity by ±20% and scenario analyses varying uptake of revumenib and epidemiology inputs, as well as excluding costs related to supportive care and posttreatment discontinuation, were performed.

RESULTS: An estimated 1.7 adult patients (AML, 1.1; ALL, 0.6) were treatment eligible annually. Estimated 3-year total plan costs without and with revumenib were $2,146,564 and $2,126,919, respectively, for savings of -$19,646. Including revumenib was estimated to yield a differential PMPM cost of -$0.0005 over 3 years. The total number of grade 3 or greater AEs was lower over 3 years (10.82 vs 10.99, respectively) in the plan with revumenib vs without. Sensitivity and scenario analyses validated the robustness of the model.

CONCLUSIONS: The BIM demonstrated that including revumenib in a formulary for adult patients with R/R KMT2At ALs was approximately cost neutral, offering patients access to a targeted treatment with potential for improved clinical outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid40453369,
year = {2025},
author = {Slagt, C and Van Kuijk, SMJ and Bruhn, J and Van Geffen, GJ and Mommers, L},
title = {First Results of Our Local Practice Guide Used During the Late Phase of Resuscitation in Patients with Refractory VF in Out of Hospital Cardiac Arrest.},
journal = {Open access emergency medicine : OAEM},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {203-213},
pmid = {40453369},
issn = {1179-1500},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Treatment of refractory ventricular fibrillation (rVF) is a clinical challenge. If rVF is still present after standard advanced life support (ALS) guideline care, including amiodaron administration, other therapeutic options might be necessary. Based on the available evidence and expertise, our Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) team developed a local practice guide for the prolonged resuscitation of patients in rVF and implemented this as standard HEMS care in March 2022.

METHODS: This database study contains all patients treated with our local practice guide during out of hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) with rVF beyond the fifth regular ALS shock-block. This local practice HEMS treatment algorithm consisted of, among others, cessation of epinephrine and alternating administration of esmolol and norepinephrine combined with enoximone. Data were derived from the HEMS database and the treating hospitals. Primary outcome was the return of spontaneous circulation. Secondary outcome was defined as survival to hospital discharge and cerebral performance. This outcome was compared to the literature to analyze for inferiority of treatment.

RESULTS: In a 21-month period, HEMS was 761 times deployed for OHCA. Nineteen patients were treated with the local practice guide, nine patients (47%) were admitted to hospital with return of spontaneous circulation. Median resuscitation time was 22min. Hospital survival with good neurology was achieved in 42% vs 17% as expected. Exact Clopper-Pearson and logistic regression analysis revealed non-inferiority of the local practice guide. Withholding epinephrine was achieved in 84% of patients. A total of 79% and 90% of patients received esmolol and norepinephrine/enoximone mixture, respectively. Alternative defibrillation positions were indicated in 18 patients but applied in only 6 (33%).

CONCLUSION: In patients with persisting VF despite prolonged advanced life support care, a multifaceted bundle of care approach shows promising results and warrants further research. Alternative drug administrations were found to be substantially easier to achieve compared to alternative defibrillation positions.},
}

@article {pmid40437235,
year = {2025},
author = {Modafferi, S and Farina, S and Esposito, F and Brandi, O and Di Salvio, M and Della Valle, I and D'Uva, S and Scarian, E and Cicio, G and Riccardi, A and Pisati, F and Garbelli, A and Santini, T and Pansarasa, O and Morlando, M and D'Ambrosi, N and Cozzolino, M and Cestra, G and d'Adda di Fagagna, F and Gioia, U and Francia, S},
title = {DNA damage response defects induced by the formation of TDP-43 and mutant FUS cytoplasmic inclusions and their pharmacological rescue.},
journal = {Cell death and differentiation},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40437235},
issn = {1476-5403},
support = {RIPREI2023_7c8ae10d783c//Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS)/ ; PRIN 2020 CXFL4T//Ministero dell'Istruzione, dell'Università e della Ricerca (Ministry of Education, University and Research)/ ; MNESYS (PE0000006)//Ministero dell'Istruzione, dell'Università e della Ricerca (Ministry of Education, University and Research)/ ; CN00000041 CN3 RNA//Ministero dell'Istruzione, dell'Università e della Ricerca (Ministry of Education, University and Research)/ ; PNRR-CN3//Ministero dell'Istruzione, dell'Università e della Ricerca (Ministry of Education, University and Research)/ ; 2021 DDR&ALS//Fondazione Italiana di Ricerca per la Sclerosi Laterale Amiotrofica (Italian Research Foundation for ALS)/ ; 2016 DDRNA&ALS//Fondazione Italiana di Ricerca per la Sclerosi Laterale Amiotrofica (Italian Research Foundation for ALS)/ ; SwitchALS//Fondazione Italiana di Ricerca per la Sclerosi Laterale Amiotrofica (Italian Research Foundation for ALS)/ ; SwitchALS//Fondazione Italiana di Ricerca per la Sclerosi Laterale Amiotrofica (Italian Research Foundation for ALS)/ ; 2021 DDR&ALS//Fondazione Italiana di Ricerca per la Sclerosi Laterale Amiotrofica (Italian Research Foundation for ALS)/ ; 2016 DDRNA&ALS//Fondazione Italiana di Ricerca per la Sclerosi Laterale Amiotrofica (Italian Research Foundation for ALS)/ ; DBA.AD005.225-NUTRAGE-FOE2021//Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (National Research Council)/ ; DBA.AD005.225-NUTRAGE-FOE2021//Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (National Research Council)/ ; Flagship Project Interomics//Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (National Research Council)/ ; TELORNAGING-835103//EC | EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation H2020 | H2020 Priority Excellent Science | H2020 European Research Council (H2020 Excellent Science - European Research Council)/ ; AIRC-IG(21762)//Associazione Italiana per la Ricerca sul Cancro (Italian Association for Cancer Research)/ ; AIRC 5×1000//Associazione Italiana per la Ricerca sul Cancro (Italian Association for Cancer Research)/ ; GGP17111//Fondazione Telethon (Telethon Foundation)/ ; POR FESR 2014-2020//Regione Lombardia (Region of Lombardy)/ ; Ricerca Corrente 2022 - 2024//Ministero della Salute (Ministry of Health, Italy)/ ; Ricerca Corrente 2022 - 2024//Ministero della Salute (Ministry of Health, Italy)/ ; },
abstract = {Formation of cytoplasmic inclusions (CIs) of TDP-43 and FUS, along with DNA damage accumulation, is a hallmark of affected motor neurons in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). However, the impact of CIs on DNA damage response (DDR) and repair in this pathology remains unprobed. Here, we show that CIs of TDP-43 and FUS[P525L], co-localizing with stress granules, lead to a dysfunctional DDR activation associated with physical DNA breakage. Inhibition of the activity of the DDR kinase ATM, but not of ATR, abolishes DDR signaling, indicating that DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are the primary source of DDR activation. In addition, cells with TDP-43 and FUS[P525L] CIs exhibit reduced DNA damage-induced RNA synthesis at DSBs. We previously showed that the two endoribonucleases DROSHA and DICER, also known to interact with TDP-43 and FUS during small RNA processing, contribute to DDR signaling at DSBs. Treatment with enoxacin, which stimulates DDR and repair by boosting the enzymatic activity of DICER, restores a proficient DDR and reduces DNA damage accumulation in cultured cells with CIs and in vivo in a murine model of ALS. In Drosophila melanogaster, Dicer-2 overexpression rescues TDP-43-mediated retinal degeneration. In summary, our results indicate that the harmful effects caused by TDP-43 and FUS CIs include genotoxic stress and that the pharmacological stimulation of the DNA damage signaling and repair counteracts it.},
}

@article {pmid40436457,
year = {2025},
author = {Peace, A and White, DA and Hackney, G and Bradburn, M and Norman, P and White, S and Al-Chalabi, A and Baird, W and Beever, D and Cade, J and Coates, E and Cooper, C and Ezaydi, N and Halliday, V and Maguire, C and Shaw, PJ and Stavroulakis, H and Waterhouse, S and Young, TA and McDermott, CJ and , },
title = {Randomised controlled trial with parallel process evaluation and health economic analysis to evaluate a nutritional management intervention, OptiCALS, for patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: study protocol.},
journal = {BMJ open},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {e096098},
doi = {10.1136/bmjopen-2024-096098},
pmid = {40436457},
issn = {2044-6055},
mesh = {Humans ; *Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/diet therapy/economics ; United Kingdom ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Ireland ; Cost-Benefit Analysis ; Energy Intake ; Quality of Life ; Nutrition Therapy/methods ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating illness that leads to muscle weakness and death usually within around 3 years of diagnosis. People with ALS (pwALS) often lose weight due to raised energy requirements and symptoms of the disease presenting significant challenges to taking adequate oral diet, with those who lose more weight being at a greater chance of earlier death. There is also some evidence to suggest that a higher calorie diet may benefit the disease course in pwALS, but further research is needed.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS: Two armed, parallel group, superiority, open labelled, randomised controlled trial, with internal pilot, to assess the effectiveness of an early high calorie diet on functional outcomes in ALS, comprising two treatment arms: (1) standard care, (2) standard care with additional active management using the OptiCALS complex intervention to achieve a high calorie diet (initially randomised 1:1, then 1:2 following a protocol amendment). Using a food first approach, pwALS will be encouraged and supported to follow a diet that meets an individualised calorie target from food before prescribing oral nutritional supplements. 259 pwALS will be recruited from up to 20 ALS centres across the United Kingdom and Ireland and followed up for a period of 12 months. Primary outcome is functional change measured over 12 months, using the Revised Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale. Secondary end points include measures of functional health, quality of life, calorie intake and weight, as well as time to gastrostomy and survival. A health economic analysis and process evaluation will also be undertaken. Participant recruitment is expected to complete in September 2025, and participant follow-up is expected to complete in September 2026. The results of this study are expected in March 2027.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: The trial was approved by Greater Manchester-North West Research Ethics Committee, reference 20/NW/0334 on 8 September 2020. We will publish the study findings in peer-reviewed academic journals and present at local, national and international conferences where possible.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ISRCTN30588041.},
}

Humans
*Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/diet therapy/economics
United Kingdom
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Ireland
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Energy Intake
Quality of Life
Nutrition Therapy/methods

@article {pmid40436373,
year = {2025},
author = {Vosough, M and Drees, F and Sieber, G and Stach, TL and Beisser, D and Probst, AJ and Boenigk, J and Schmidt, TC},
title = {Integrative Analysis of Nontargeted LC-HRMS and High-Throughput Metabarcoding Data for Aquatic Environmental Studies Using Combined Multivariate Statistical Approaches.},
journal = {Analytical chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.analchem.5c00539},
pmid = {40436373},
issn = {1520-6882},
abstract = {Significant progress in high-throughput analytical techniques has paved the way for novel approaches to integrating data sets from different compartments. This study leverages nontarget screening (NTS) via liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS), a crucial technique for analyzing organic micropollutants and their transformation products, in combination with biological indicators. We propose a combined multivariate data processing framework that integrates LC-HRMS-based NTS data with other high-throughput data sets, exemplified here by 18S V9 rRNA and full-length 16S rRNA gene metabarcoding data sets. The power of data fusion is demonstrated by systematically evaluating the impact of treated wastewater (TWW) over time on an aquatic ecosystem through a controlled mesocosm experiment. Highly compressed NTS data were compiled through the implementation of the region of interest-multivariate curve resolution-alternating least-squares (MCR-ALS) method, known as ROIMCR. By integrating ANOVA-simultaneous component analysis with structural learning and integrative decomposition (SLIDE), the innovative SLIDE-ASCA approach enables the decomposition of global and partial common, as well as distinct variation sources arising from experimental factors and their possible interactions. SLIDE-ASCA results indicate that temporal variability explains a much larger portion of the variance (74.6%) than the treatment effect, with both contributing to global shared space variation (41%). Design structure benefits include enhanced interpretability, improved detection of key features, and a more accurate representation of complex interactions between chemical and biological data. This approach offers a greater understanding of the natural and wastewater-influenced temporal patterns for each data source, as well as reveals associations between chemical and biological markers in an exemplified perturbed aquatic ecosystem.},
}

@article {pmid40417702,
year = {2025},
author = {Hoang, K and Prayotamornkul, S and Kuo, CY and Jang, H and Shi, L},
title = {Optical imaging of metabolic dynamics in ALS under methionine regulation.},
journal = {Journal of biomedical optics},
volume = {30},
number = {Suppl 2},
pages = {S23906},
pmid = {40417702},
issn = {1560-2281},
mesh = {*Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/metabolism/diagnostic imaging ; *Methionine/metabolism/pharmacology ; Humans ; *Optical Imaging/methods ; Mitochondria/metabolism ; Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism ; Oxidative Stress ; Spectrum Analysis, Raman/methods ; Cytochromes c/metabolism ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional ; Oxidation-Reduction ; },
abstract = {SIGNIFICANCE: Excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) in dysfunctional mitochondria, combined with inefficient antioxidant defenses, can drive amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) progression. L-methionine (Met) can neutralize ROS by modulating metabolism and activating antioxidants; however, its impact on ALS remains unknown.

AIM: We aim to investigate the influence of excess Met on cellular metabolism and ROS accumulation and its role in ALS using multimodal optical imaging techniques.

APPROACH: We applied deuterium oxide-probed stimulated Raman scattering imaging to study metabolic changes of lipids, proteins, and cytochrome c and two-photon excitation fluorescence imaging to assess mitochondrial redox state (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide and flavin adenine dinucleotide ratio) in ALS cellular models under excess Met treatment. With three-dimensional (3D) image reconstruction, we investigated morphological changes of lipid droplets (LDs) and stress granules (SGs) in ALS models.

RESULTS: Excess Met not only promoted syntheses of lipids and unsaturated lipid membranes but also reduced protein synthesis, cytochrome c oxidation, and oxidative stress. Moreover, 3D image reconstruction showed that LDs increased in volume and number to promote cellular repair, whereas SGs decreased in volume but increased in number in response to reduced cellular stress.

CONCLUSIONS: Excess Met offers a protective mechanism against oxidative stress and promotes cellular repair in ALS.},
}

*Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/metabolism/diagnostic imaging
*Methionine/metabolism/pharmacology
Humans
*Optical Imaging/methods
Mitochondria/metabolism
Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism
Oxidative Stress
Spectrum Analysis, Raman/methods
Cytochromes c/metabolism
Imaging, Three-Dimensional
Oxidation-Reduction

@article {pmid40414239,
year = {2025},
author = {Shneider, NA and Harms, MB and Korobeynikov, VA and Rifai, OM and Hoover, BN and Harrington, EA and Aziz-Zaman, S and Singleton, J and Jamil, A and Madan, VR and Lee, I and Andrews, JA and Smiley, RM and Alam, MM and Black, LE and Shin, M and Watts, JK and Walk, D and Newman, D and Pascuzzi, RM and Weber, M and Neuwirth, C and Da Cruz, S and Soriano, A and Lane, R and Henry, S and Mathews, J and Jafar-Nejad, P and Norris, D and Rigo, F and Brown, RH and Miller, S and Crean, R and Bennett, CF},
title = {Antisense oligonucleotide jacifusen for FUS-ALS: an investigator-initiated, multicentre, open-label case series.},
journal = {Lancet (London, England)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/S0140-6736(25)00513-6},
pmid = {40414239},
issn = {1474-547X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Pathogenic variants of fused in sarcoma (FUS) cause amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (FUS-ALS), with evidence of gain of function. Jacifusen is an antisense oligonucleotide targeting FUS pre-mRNA, previously shown to delay neurodegeneration in a mouse model and potentially slow functional decline in a first-in-human study. Here, we sought to further evaluate use of jacifusen as a treatment for FUS-ALS.

METHODS: This expanded access programme was conducted through a series of single-patient investigational new drug applications at five sites (four hospitals in the USA and one in Switzerland). Participants carried a FUS variant and had clinical evidence of motor neuron disease onset or electrophysiological abnormalities, if not a diagnosis of ALS. Participants were ineligible if chronically ventilated with tracheostomy. Enrolled sequentially, participants received serial intrathecal injections of jacifusen over 2·8-33·9 months. Based on multiple ascending doses of jacifusen (from 20 mg to 120 mg), successive protocols were modified as safety and other data were acquired, with the last participants enrolled receiving 120 mg doses monthly from the start of their treatment. Safety was assessed using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 4.0 and standard cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) metrics. Concentration of neurofilament light chain (NfL) in CSF was used as a biomarker of axonal injury and neurodegeneration, and the ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R) score was used as an overall measure of motor function. Biochemical analysis and immunohistochemical staining were done on post-mortem CNS tissues to quantify FUS protein expression and assess the burden of FUS pathology.

FINDINGS: Between June 11, 2019, and June 2, 2023, we recruited 12 participants (median age 26 years [range 16-45]; seven [58%] were female and five [42%] were male) into the expanded access programme. Transient elevations in cell counts or total protein concentration in CSF (six [50%] participants) were unrelated to treatment duration. The most common adverse events were back pain (six [50%]), headache (four [33%]), nausea (three [25%]), and post-lumbar puncture headache (three [25%]). Two participant deaths were recorded during the programme, both thought to be unrelated to the investigational drug. The concentration of NfL in CSF was reduced by up to 82·8% after 6 months of treatment. Although most participants had continued functional decline (as measured by ALSFRS-R) after starting treatment with jacifusen, one showed unprecedented, objective functional recovery after 10 months, and another remained asymptomatic, with documented improvement in electromyographic abnormalities. Biochemical and immunohistochemical analysis of CNS tissue samples from four participants showed reduced FUS protein levels and an apparent decrease in the burden of FUS pathology.

INTERPRETATION: The findings suggest the safety and possible efficacy of jacifusen for treating FUS-ALS. The efficacy of jacifusen is being further evaluated in an ongoing clinical trial.

FUNDING: ALS Association, Project ALS, Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Tow Foundation, Nancy D Perlman and Thomas D Klingenstein Innovation Fund for Neurodegenerative Disease, National Institutes of Health, Angel Fund for ALS Research, Cellucci Fund for ALS Research, Max Rosenfeld ALS Fund, University of Minnesota, and the Muscular Dystrophy Association.},
}

@article {pmid40413059,
year = {2025},
author = {Lopes, AMDS and Giacomini, S and Ulahannan, A and Darnac, C and Bugeia, S and Gutknecht, G and Colomer-Lahiguera, S and Spurrier-Bernard, G and Latifyan, S and Addeo, A and Michielin, O and Eicher, M},
title = {Acceptability of an Electronic Patient-Reported Outcomes-Based Model of Care to Monitor Symptoms Related to Cancer Treatment with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: Results from the IePRO Randomized Controlled Trial.},
journal = {Seminars in oncology nursing},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {151903},
doi = {10.1016/j.soncn.2025.151903},
pmid = {40413059},
issn = {1878-3449},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This study analyzed the acceptability of an electronic patient-reported outcomes measures-based model of care (IePRO MoC) and the usability of its complementary ePROM mobile app to monitor and manage symptoms related to immune checkpoint inhibitors. In this MoC, symptoms reported by patients treated at an outpatient clinic were reviewed by oncology triage nurses who provided symptom management interventions by telephone.

METHODS: As part of a larger intervention trial (ClinicalTrials.gov.NCT05530187) we conducted an abductive, semantic thematic analysis through semistructured interviews of patients participating in the intervention arm. Acceptability was deduced from Sekhon et al's (2017) Theoretical Framework of Acceptability completed with inductively generated themes. Usability analysis was guided by the mHealth App Usability Questionnaire's domains by Zhoul et al (2019).

RESULTS: A total of 17 interviews were performed. The IePRO MoC was reported to be an acceptable intervention. Patients expressed feeling safe and empowered due to continuous monitoring and timely support from nurses. Personalized support motivated patients to use the MoC throughout treatment. Some questioned the predefined response options of the app, and the standardized approach regarding notifications and monitoring requirements. Despite high app usability, some expressed discomfort from being frequently reminded of their illness and being confronted with questions about their sexuality and other intimate themes.

CONCLUSIONS: The feedback loop between patients and nurses facilitated the acceptability of the IePRO MoC. The app's usability further facilitated adherence to the MoC. A more personalized approach regarding the frequency of assessments and the way symptoms are conveyed is recommended to decrease discomfort and support the implementation of similar MoCs in the future.},
}

@article {pmid40409314,
year = {2025},
author = {, and , },
title = {Safety and efficacy of trehalose in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (HEALEY ALS Platform Trial): an adaptive, phase 2/3, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial.},
journal = {The Lancet. Neurology},
volume = {24},
number = {6},
pages = {500-511},
doi = {10.1016/S1474-4422(25)00173-5},
pmid = {40409314},
issn = {1474-4465},
mesh = {Humans ; *Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/drug therapy ; *Trehalose/therapeutic use/adverse effects/administration & dosage ; Double-Blind Method ; Male ; Female ; Middle Aged ; Aged ; Adult ; Disease Progression ; Treatment Outcome ; *Neuroprotective Agents/therapeutic use ; Riluzole/therapeutic use ; Edaravone/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Trehalose is a disaccharide that activates autophagy pathways in animal models of neurodegenerative diseases, with the potential to catalyse clearance of toxic, misfolded proteins in motor neurons and slow disease progression in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). We aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of trehalose in individuals with ALS.

METHODS: The HEALEY ALS Platform Trial is a perpetual, adaptive, phase 2/3, randomised, double-blind, multi-regimen trial conducted at 60 geographically diverse sites in the USA. In the current regimen, adults with clinically possible, probable, laboratory-supported probable, or definite ALS, defined by the revised El Escorial criteria, were randomly allocated (3:1), stratified by use of edaravone and riluzole, to receive trehalose 0·75 g per kg intravenously weekly over 24 weeks, or matching placebo. The primary outcome was a composite of the relative rate of disease progression, as measured by the Revised ALS Functional Rating Scale (ALSFRS-R), and survival over 24 weeks, estimated in a Bayesian shared-parameter model. The study included prespecified stopping rules for futility; interim analyses occurred every 12 weeks. The primary outcome was analysed according to the intention-to-treat principle in all participants in the trehalose group, the placebo group within the regimen, and placebo groups from other contributing regimens; the safety analysis population was comprised of all participants who initiated treatment. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05136885.

FINDINGS: Between Feb 21, 2022, and Feb 17, 2023, 1021 participants were screened for the platform trial and 171 were assigned to the trehalose regimen. Of these, 161 participants met eligibility criteria, with 120 randomly allocated to trehalose and 41 to regimen-specific placebo. 164 participants randomly allocated to placebo in other regimens were added for analysis (totalling 205 placebo recipients). The disease rate ratio for change in ALSFRS-R and survival was 0·87 (95% credible interval 0·665-1·102, posterior probability of superiority 0·877). Serious adverse events occurred in 19 (16%) participants in the trehalose group and three (7%) participants in the regimen-only placebo group, leading to premature discontinuations in 14 (12%) versus one (2%), respectively. Fatal treatment-emergent adverse events occurred in seven participants in the trehalose group and none in the regimen-only placebo group. No death was considered related to the trial drug. The most common cause of death was respiratory failure, consistent with the natural history of ALS.

INTERPRETATION: Trehalose was well tolerated but there was no evidence to suggest a difference in ALS disease progression compared with placebo in this study. No statistical benefit was seen in secondary clinical or biomarker measures, suggesting that trehalose at this dosage is unlikely to be efficacious for treatment of ALS.

FUNDING: AMG Charitable Foundation, Tackle ALS, the ALS Association, ALS Finding a Cure, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, ALS ONE, the Arthur M Blank Family Foundation, I AM ALS, Tambourine ALS Collaborative, and other community fundraising initiatives and donors. Study drug and partial regimen-related funding was provided by Seelos.},
}

Humans
*Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/drug therapy
*Trehalose/therapeutic use/adverse effects/administration & dosage
Double-Blind Method
Male
Female
Middle Aged
Aged
Adult
Disease Progression
Treatment Outcome
*Neuroprotective Agents/therapeutic use
Riluzole/therapeutic use
Edaravone/therapeutic use

@article {pmid40405710,
year = {2025},
author = {Clift, A and Rowen, D and Knox, L and Griffiths, AW and McDermott, CJ},
title = {A Systematic Review of Attributes Influencing Preferences for Treatments and Interventions in People With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).},
journal = {Muscle & nerve},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/mus.28437},
pmid = {40405710},
issn = {1097-4598},
support = {//National Institute for Health and Care Research/ ; },
abstract = {Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that has no cure, and treatments predominantly focus on improving quality of life. Patient-centred care is central to bringing about meaningful improvements to quality of life. This review addresses the lack of consolidated evidence on what matters most to people with ALS (pwALS) by synthesizing 44 preference-based studies covering six different treatment and intervention categories. Data-based convergent synthesis identified five overarching factors influencing preferences: ease of use, accessibility, making life easier, autonomy, and safety/reliability. Simplifying and enhancing accessibility of treatment delivery across disease stages aligns with the nature of neurodegenerative disorders such as ALS, where function declines as the disease progresses. The value in perceived and real control reflects the profound impact ALS has on an individual's independence. Safety and reliability are crucial for people with ALS and are recognized as fundamental requirements for quality healthcare. The themes identified in this review can inform the attributes of preference elicitation methods. Systematically varying the levels of these attributes elicits quantitative measures of preferences. These findings can be used to inform and develop healthcare policy and clinical practice in ALS care. Specifically, preferences related to drug treatments can then be integrated into target product profiles (TPPs) to align drug development with the needs and values of pwALS. Integrating patient preferences into clinical practice promotes patient-centred care, increasing both patient satisfaction and treatment effectiveness.},
}

@article {pmid40403957,
year = {2025},
author = {Zeng, L and Yang, J and Zhang, C and Zhu, J and Zhong, S and Liu, X and Xie, H and Wang, L and Chen, L and Zhong, M and Hua, F and Liang, W},
title = {Miro1: A potential target for treating neurological disorders.},
journal = {Neuroscience},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.neuroscience.2025.05.019},
pmid = {40403957},
issn = {1873-7544},
abstract = {The Miro1 protein is a member of the mitochondrial Rho GTPase (Miro) protein family and plays a crucial role in regulating the dynamic processes of mitochondria and participating in cellular movement and mitochondrial transport. In the nervous system, it ensures adequate energy supply for normal neuronal function and synaptic transmission. Additionally, Miro1 actively participates in the regulation of mitochondrial quality control and stress responses within neurons. Its primary function is to sense intracellular stress signals to regulate mitochondrial movement and metabolism, thereby adapting to environmental changes. Multiple studies have indicated that the Miro1 protein is associated with the pathogenesis of various neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's Disease(AD), Parkinson's Disease(PD), and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis(ALS). This article reviews the mechanistic role of Miro1 in these diseases and summarizes the latest research on its involvement in neurological disorders. These efforts aim to provide unified treatment strategies for certain neurological disorders and explore the potential for treating complex neurological diseases.},
}

@article {pmid40403503,
year = {2025},
author = {Dhapola, R and Paidlewar, M and Kumari, S and Sharma, P and Vellingiri, B and Medhi, B and HariKrishnaReddy, D},
title = {cGAS-STING and neurodegenerative diseases: A molecular crosstalk and therapeutic perspective.},
journal = {International immunopharmacology},
volume = {159},
number = {},
pages = {114902},
doi = {10.1016/j.intimp.2025.114902},
pmid = {40403503},
issn = {1878-1705},
abstract = {Neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) share key pathological features, including neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, autophagic dysfunction, and DNA damage. By identifying cytosolic DNA and triggering the type I interferon response, the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway regulates neuroinflammation. Dysregulated cGAS-STING signaling has been linked to neuroinflammation and neuronal degeneration across multiple neurodegenerative conditions. In many neurodegenerative disorders, neuroinflammation is mediated by the cGAS-STING pathway. Mitochondrial malfunction and impaired autophagy cause cytosolic DNA buildup in Huntington's, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's diseases, which activates cGAS-STING and drives chronic inflammation. This pathway is triggered by TDP-43 pathology and nucleic acid dysregulation in ALS and FTD, which leads to neuronal destruction. Both central demyelination and peripheral immunological responses are linked to cGAS-STING activation in multiple sclerosis. Various inhibitors, such as RU.521, H-151, and naturally occurring compounds like metformin, potentially attenuate cGAS-STING-mediated neuroinflammation and associated pathologies. H-151 significantly decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory markers in murine macrophage J774 cells activated with cGAMP: TNF-α by 68 %, IFN-β by 84 %, and CXCL10 by 96 %. cGAS-STING inhibitors target neuroinflammation, offering a disease-modifying approach unlike current symptomatic treatments. However, challenges like blood-brain barrier penetration, off-target effects, and immune suppression hinder clinical translation, necessitating optimized drug delivery and immune modulation. With a focus on its potential for future clinical applications, this review explores the role of the cGAS-STING pathway in neurodegeneration and new treatment approaches.},
}

@article {pmid40400898,
year = {2025},
author = {Aziz, S and Anbreen, S and Shahzad, S and Ahmed, MS and Sharma, V and Yang, J and Ali, L},
title = {Investigating nanoparticle's utilization in stem cell therapy for neurological disorders.},
journal = {American journal of stem cells},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {1-13},
pmid = {40400898},
issn = {2160-4150},
abstract = {Stem cell therapy is a promising area of regenerative medicine, offering potential treatments for various life-threatening disorders. Stem cells are classified based on their differentiation potential into totipotent, pluripotent, and multipotent stem cells. Among them, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are widely used in regenerative medicine due to their tissue regeneration capabilities and ability to differentiate into multiple cell types. Stem cells are being explored for treating neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, Huntington's, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). These conditions result from progressive neuronal degeneration, leading to irreversible damage. Challenges such as cell survival, immune rejection, tumor formation, and ethical concerns related to embryonic stem cells need to be addressed. Nanotechnology is emerging as a tool for enhancing stem cell therapy, improving targeted delivery and effectiveness. Nanoparticles possess the ability to create microenvironments as substrates, facilitate targeted administration, and enable real-time, precise imaging of stem cells. This review explores the integration of stem cells and nanotechnology as regenerative medicine tool for neurodegenerative disease treatment, analyzing current strategies and therapeutic approaches. Integrating nanotechnology with stem cell therapy may significantly improve targeted delivery and enhance regenerative outcomes for neurodegenerative disorders.},
}

@article {pmid40398684,
year = {2025},
author = {Naufal, E and Shadbolt, C and Wouthuyzen-Bakker, M and Rele, S and Sahebjada, S and Thuraisingam, S and Babazadeh, S and Choong, PF and Dowsey, MM},
title = {Clinical prediction models to guide treatment of periprosthetic joint infections: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {The Journal of hospital infection},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhin.2025.04.035},
pmid = {40398684},
issn = {1532-2939},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Several clinical prediction models that aim to guide decisions about the management of periprosthetic joint infections (PJI) have been developed. While some models have been recommended for use in clinical settings, their suitability remains uncertain.

METHODS: We systematically reviewed and critically appraised all multivariable prediction models for the treatment of PJI. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Google Scholar from inception until March 1st, 2024 and included studies that developed or validated models that predict the outcome of PJI. We used PROBAST (Prediction model Risk Of Bias ASsessment Tool) to assess the risk of bias and applicability. Model performance estimates were pooled via random effect meta-analysis.

RESULTS: Thirteen predictive models and seven external validations were identified. Methodological issues were identified in all studies. Pooled estimates indicated that the KLIC (Kidney, Liver, Index surgery, Cemented prosthesis, C-reactive protein) score had fair discriminative performance (pooled c-statistic 0.62, 95% CI 0.55 to 0.69). Both the τ2 (0.02) and I2 (33.4) estimates indicated that between study heterogeneity was minimal. Meta-analysis indicated Shohat et al's model had good discriminative performance (pooled c-statistic 0.74, 95% CI 0.57 to 0.85). Both the τ2 (0.0) and I2 (0.0) indicated that between study heterogeneity was minimal.

CONCLUSIONS: Clinicians should be aware of limitations in the methods used to develop available models to predict outcomes of PJI. As no models have consistently demonstrated adequate performance across external validation studies, it remains unclear if any available models would provide reliable information if used to guide clinical decision-making.},
}

@article {pmid40396445,
year = {2025},
author = {Hu, X and Cheng, J and Yuan, R and Zhou, Y and Rao, J and Wan, Y and Li, Y and Zhang, X and Li, R},
title = {Gold Nanoparticles: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Applications in Neurodegenerative Disorders.},
journal = {Journal of drug targeting},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-39},
doi = {10.1080/1061186X.2025.2509287},
pmid = {40396445},
issn = {1029-2330},
abstract = {Neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs), including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and prion diseases, pose a significant and escalating health challenge in the context of an aging population. Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) have emerged as promising agents in the diagnostic and therapeutic realms of NDDs, due to their unique ability to enhance drug delivery across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). This paper presents a comprehensive review of the application of GNPs in the context of NDDs diagnosis and therapy, highlighting their potential to transform patient management. Additionally, we systematically address the critical challenges associated with the use of GNPs in the treatment and diagnosis of NDDs, focusing on pharmacokinetics and metabolism, toxicity, long-term biocompatibility, regulatory challenges, and cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, we synthesize ongoing clinical studies to provide a holistic perspective on the current state of research in this field. We also explore the prospective trajectories and clinical translational potential of GNPs, which may usher in a new era in the treatment of NDDs.},
}

@article {pmid40395983,
year = {2025},
author = {Beckers, J and Van Damme, P},
title = {The role of autophagy in the pathogenesis and treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD).},
journal = {Autophagy reports},
volume = {4},
number = {1},
pages = {2474796},
pmid = {40395983},
issn = {2769-4127},
abstract = {Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) represent two extremes of a neurodegenerative disease spectrum characterised by overlapping genetic, clinical, and neuropathological features. This review covers the intricate relationship between both ALS and FTD and defects in the autophagy and endolysosomal pathway as recent evidence has pointed towards alterations in these pathways as being a root cause of disease pathogenesis. Here, we review the current knowledge on the interplay between ALS/FTD and lysosomebased proteostasis pathways and carefully asses the steps of the autophagy and endolysosomal pathways that are impaired by ALS or FTDcausing variants. Finally, we present a comprehensive overview of therapeutic strategies aimed at restoring autophagic and lysosomal function as potential avenues for mitigating the impact of these devastating diseases. Through this review, we aim to enhance the understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms involving autophagy and/or the endolysosomal system that underlie the ALS-FTD spectrum and underscore the necessity for specific therapeutic approaches that target these shared vulnerabilities.},
}

@article {pmid40391540,
year = {2025},
author = {Massey, C and Hobson, E and Griffiths, AW and Musson, L and McDermott, C},
title = {Exploring mechanisms of behavior change for healthcare professionals in cough and secretion management in ALS.},
journal = {Neurodegenerative disease management},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-12},
doi = {10.1080/17582024.2025.2506954},
pmid = {40391540},
issn = {1758-2032},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To explore healthcare professionals' experiences managing cough and secretion problems in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).

METHODS: A qualitative study was completed with 23 individuals participating in four focus groups. Data was analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis and COM-B and theoretical domains framework (TDF) behavior change frameworks.

RESULTS: This study found that roles, responsibilities, and expectations needed to be clearly defined and that building relationships was important to support care delivery. Barriers identified included limited access to specialist care, equipment, and opportunities to gain knowledge and skills. A structured clinical assessment was highlighted to enable good-quality care. Data mapped most commonly to the environmental context/resources, knowledge, skills (TDF), and physical capability (COM-B) behavior change domains.

CONCLUSION: Cough and secretion management in ALS is complex due to the multifaceted nature of the disease. This study emphasizes the need for future development of clinical interventions to support care.},
}

@article {pmid40389989,
year = {2025},
author = {Noh, MY and Oh, SI and Kim, YE and Cha, SJ and Sung, W and Oh, KW and Park, Y and Mun, JY and Ki, CS and Nahm, M and Kim, SH},
title = {Mutations in NEK1 cause ciliary dysfunction as a novel pathogenic mechanism in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.},
journal = {Molecular neurodegeneration},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {59},
pmid = {40389989},
issn = {1750-1326},
support = {RS-2023-00265515//Ministry of Science and ICT/ ; RS-2023-00265515//Ministry of Science and ICT/ ; 24-BR-02-04//Ministry of Science and ICT/ ; 25-BR-04-01//Ministry of Science and ICT, South Korea/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Neuronal primary cilia, vital for signaling and cell-cycle regulation, have been implicated in maintaining neuronal identity. While a link between primary ciliary defects and neurodegenerative diseases is emerging, the precise pathological mechanisms remain unclear.

METHODS: We studied the genetic contribution of NEK1 to ALS pathogenesis by analyzing the exome sequences of 920 Korean patients with ALS. To understand the disease contribution of NEK1 variants in ALS, we performed a series of functional studies using patient fibroblasts focusing on primary cilia and microtubule-related phenotypes. In addition, these findings were validated in iPSC-derived motor neurons (iPSC-MNs).

RESULTS: NIMA-related kinase 1 (NEK1), a gene encoding a serine/threonine kinase involved in cell cycle regulation, has been identified as a risk gene for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Here, we report that mutations in NEK1 cause primary ciliary abnormality, cell cycle re-entry, and disrupted tubulin acetylation in ALS. We analyzed the whole-exome sequences of 920 Korean patients with sporadic ALS and identified 16 NEK1 variants in 23 patients. We found that two novel variants, p.E853Rfs*9 and p.M1?, reduced NEK1 expression, resulting in loss-of-function (LOF) and one synonymous splicing variant (p.Q132=) exhibited an aberrant isoform lacking exon 5. All three NEK1 variants exhibited abnormal primary ciliary structure, impaired sonic hedgehog signaling, and altered cell-cycle progression. Furthermore, the ALS-linked variants induced intracellular calcium overload followed by Aurora kinase A (AurA)-histone deacetylase (HDAC)6 activation, resulting in ciliary disassembly. These defects were restored by treatment with the intracellular Ca[2+] chelator, BAPTA. We also found that NEK1 variants cause decreased α-tubulin acetylation, mitochondrial alteration, and impaired DNA damage response (DDR). Notably, drug treatment to inhibit HDAC6 restored the NEK1-dependent deficits in patient fibroblasts. And, we confirmed that data found in patient fibroblasts were reproduced in iPSC-MNs model.

CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that NEK1 contributes to ALS pathogenesis through the LOF mechanism, and HDAC6 inhibition provides an attractive therapeutic strategy for NEK1 variants associated ALS treatment.},
}

@article {pmid40389223,
year = {2025},
author = {Heimbuch, S and Tischler, L and Beyer, A and Jordan, Y and Pfeuffer, N and Krause, H and van den Berg, N},
title = {Telemedizin in der Pädiatrie - Akzeptanz und Zufriedenheit aus Elternperspektive.},
journal = {Gesundheitswesen (Bundesverband der Arzte des Offentlichen Gesundheitsdienstes (Germany))},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1055/a-2543-3179},
pmid = {40389223},
issn = {1439-4421},
abstract = {The telemedical networking of children's clinics of varying sizes and specializations can support healthcare close to home, especially in rural regions with structural limitations. A Regional Tele-Paediatric Network was implemented in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and North Brandenburg (innovation fund project RTP-Net). This study examines the question of how participating parents accepted and evaluated this form of care.Parents of paediatric patients at a participating clinic were invited to take part in the study during the observation period 02.2021 to 03.2023 study. A mixed-methods approach was used that comprised a standardized questionnaire. The interviews were transcribed, categorized according to Kuckartz and subjected to descriptive evaluation. Between 12.2023 to 02.2024, telephone interviews were conducted with parents who had agreed to be recontacted.A total of 507 cases (403 patients) were included in the RTP-Net. Data from 138 questionnaires were analyzed. 74.5% of parents found that the use of telemedicine was helpful for the treatment of their child; 88.1% could imagine that telemedicine could supplement paediatric healthcare in the future. Parents interviewed over the telephone (n=11) rated telemedicine services positively. The main advantages mentioned were saving in time and distance, availability of specialist expertise and avoidance of long waiting times. There were concerns about the lack of physical contact between telemedicine doctor and patient.Parents show a high level of acceptance of telemedicine and trust in the provision of telemedical services. Telemedicine can help parents to avoid the burden of long journeys and waiting times and improve access to specialist medical expertise. In order to improve the acceptance and satisfaction of parents, it is important to inform them about the results if the telemedical advice was based on a doctor-to-doctor consultation.Die telemedizinische Vernetzung von Kinder-Kliniken unterschiedlicher Größen und Spezialisierungen kann insbesondere in ländlichen Regionen mit strukturellen Einschränkungen eine wohnortnahe Versorgung unterstützen. In Mecklenburg-Vorpommern und Nord-Brandenburg wurde ein Regionales Telepädiatrisches Netzwerk (Innovationsfondsprojekt RTP-Net) implementiert. In dieser Publikation wird der Frage nachgegangen, wie teilnehmende Eltern diese Versorgungsform akzeptierten und bewerteten.Der Mixed-Methods-Ansatz umfasste einen deskriptiv ausgewerteten standardisierten Fragebogen für Eltern, die ihr Kind im Beobachtungszeitraum 02.2021 bis 03.2023 in einer teilnehmenden Klinik vorstellten und an der Studie teilnahmen. Zwischen 12.2023 und 02.2024 wurden telefonische Interviews mit Eltern geführt, die einer Wiederkontaktierung zugestimmt hatten. Die Interviews wurden transkribiert und inhaltlich strukturierend nach Kuckartz kategorisiert und ausgewertet.Es wurden 507 Fälle (403 Patienten) in das RTP-Net eingeschlossen. Daten aus 138 Elternfragebögen wurden analysiert. 74,5% der befragten Eltern fanden, dass die Nutzung der Telemedizin hilfreich für die Behandlung ihres Kindes war. 88,1% von ihnen können sich vorstellen, dass Telemedizin die pädiatrische Versorgung zukünftig ergänzt. Es wurden elf Telefoninterviews geführt. Diese Eltern schätzten telemedizinische Angebote positiv ein. Als Vorteile galten v. a. die Weg- und Zeitersparnis, die Verfügbarkeit spezialfachärztlicher Expertise und die Vermeidung langer Wartezeiten. Bedenken bestanden in Bezug auf den fehlenden physischen Kontakt zwischen Telemedizinarzt und Patient. Um die Akzeptanz und Zufriedenheit der Eltern zu verbessern, ist es wichtig, diese über das Resultat zu informieren, wenn die telemedizinische Maßnahme als Arzt-zu-Arzt-Konsultation erfolgte.Auf Seiten der Eltern ist eine hohe Akzeptanz telemedizinischer Angebote und Vertrauen in die telemedizinische Leistungserbringung gegeben. Durch Telemedizin können Belastungen der Eltern durch lange Anfahrtswege und Wartezeiten vermieden werden und der Zugang zu spezialfachärztlicher Expertise verbessert werden.},
}

@article {pmid40389171,
year = {2025},
author = {Das, D and Das, A and Bhattacharya, K and Koch, KP and Deuri, DJ and Saikia, D and Chanu, NR and Deka, S},
title = {Xanthones as Neuroprotective Agents: A Comprehensive Review of Their Role in the Prevention and Treatment of Neurodegenerative Diseases.},
journal = {Ageing research reviews},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {102772},
doi = {10.1016/j.arr.2025.102772},
pmid = {40389171},
issn = {1872-9649},
abstract = {Over the recent years, numerous research efforts have been focused toward xanthones, a class of heterocyclic compounds characterized by a three-ring core structure and a diverse range of biological activities. Despite extensive studies, no xanthone-based molecule has successfully progressed through clinical trials to reach pharmaceutical applications. Xanthones belong to the class of secondary metabolites that exist naturally, found in various plant species, and their structural diversity has been further expanded through synthetic modifications to enhance their pharmacological efficacy. This review provides a comprehensive description of the therapeutic potential of xanthone derivatives within the scope of neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, and neuroinflammation. Existing literature has been rigorously examined to highlight the pharmacological relevance of xanthones in these disorders. Additionally, the pathophysiological aspects of each disease are discussed in detail to establish a mechanistic understanding of how xanthone derivatives may exert neuroprotective effects. Furthermore, the SAR of xanthones is explored to elucidate key molecular features responsible for their bioactivity, providing insights into rational drug design. By synthesizing and critically analyzing the existing research, this review is focused in highlighting the therapeutic relevance of xanthones in neurodegenerative diseases and their potential as lead candidates for further drug development.},
}

@article {pmid40389086,
year = {2025},
author = {Pu, K and Yang, S and Sheng, R and Chen, J and Dai, Y and Wood, IC and Zhong, Z and Xu, S},
title = {Chuanxiong-Danggui herb pair alleviated cognitive deficits of APP/PS1 mice by promoting mitophagy.},
journal = {Journal of ethnopharmacology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {119988},
doi = {10.1016/j.jep.2025.119988},
pmid = {40389086},
issn = {1872-7573},
abstract = {Disruption of receptor-mediated mitophagy contributes to neuronal damage in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Chuanxiong-Danggui herb pair (CDHP) is classic herbal pair applied to treating neurodegenerative diseases including AD, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Parkinson's disease. Though studies have demonstrated the neuroprotective effects of CDHP, the underlying mechanisms by which CDHP attenuates neuronal impairment of AD remains to be elucidated.

AIM OF THE STUDY: The objective of this work was to investigate the anti-AD mechanism of CDHP in APP/PS1 mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Behavioral assessments were conducted on C57BL/6J and APP/PS1 mice following CDHP treatment, alongside an evaluation of neuronal morphology in the hippocampal region. In vitro, HT-22 cells were induced by Aβ25-35 before being treated with CDHP. The mechanisms of CDHP were investigated using transmission electron microscopy, Golgi staining, immunofluorescence, siRNA, and Western blot analysis.

RESULTS: Results from the passive avoidance test and the Morris water maze (MWM) indicated that CDHP significantly mitigated cognitive deficits of APP/PS1 mice, accompanied by a reduction of pathological damage in the CA1 and CA3 regions of hippocampus. Further testing found that a significant reduction in dendritic spines density was rescued by CDHP. Synaptophysin (SYN) and postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD-95) were elevated in the CDHP group, while Aβ (β-amyloid) plaques deposition was significantly reduced. Simultaneously, CDHP markedly inhibited neuronal apoptosis through a decrease of the levels of Cleaved Caspase-12 and enhanced expression of Bcl-2/Bax, both in vivo and in vitro. Additionally, CDHP improved mitochondrial morphology and function in the AD model by decreasing abnormal mitochondria and increasing the expression of COXIV. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed that clear mitophagy-autophagosomes were nearly absent in APP/PS1 mice, while the expression of p62 and LC3B were elevated following CDHP treatment. Furthermore, CDHP increased the expression of the FUNDC1 and PGAM5 in APP/PS1 mice and AD-like cell models.

CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that CDHP mitigated cognitive dysfunction in APP/PS1 mice by enhancing mitophagy to reduce neuronal injury.},
}

@article {pmid40388191,
year = {2025},
author = {De Marchi, F and Lombardi, I and Bombaci, A and Diamanti, L and Olivero, M and Perciballi, E and Tornabene, D and Vulcano, E and Ferrari, D and Mazzini, L},
title = {Recent therapeutic advances in the treatment and management of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: the era of regenerative medicine.},
journal = {Expert review of neurotherapeutics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1080/14737175.2025.2508781},
pmid = {40388191},
issn = {1744-8360},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Despite decades of research, effective disease-modifying treatments for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) remain scarce, with riluzole and edaravone offering only limited benefits. The emergence of regenerative medicine, including stem cell therapy, gene-based interventions, and bioengineering strategies, presents a new frontier for ALS treatment.

AREAS COVERED: This review is based on a comprehensive literature search using PubMed, Scopus and clinical trials databases on the recent therapeutic advancements in ALS, giving particular focus to regenerative medicine. The article includes coverage of stem cell-based therapies, including mesenchymal stem cells, neural stem cells, and induced pluripotent stem cells; all of which may offer potential neuroprotective and immunomodulatory effects. Gene therapy, particularly antisense oligonucleotides targeting ALS-related mutations, has gained traction, with tofersen becoming the first FDA-approved genetic therapy for ALS. The article also covers emerging approaches such as extracellular vesicles, immune-modulating therapies, and bioengineering techniques, including CRISPR-based gene editing and cellular reprogramming, that hold promise for altering disease progression.

EXPERT OPINION: While regenerative medicine provides hope for ALS patients, significant challenges remain. Biomarkers will play a crucial role in guiding personalized treatment strategies, ensuring targeted and effective interventions. Future research should prioritize optimizing combinatory approaches, integrating different therapy strategies to maximize patient outcomes. Although regenerative medicine is still in its early clinical stages, its integration into ALS treatment paradigms could redefine disease management and potentially alter its natural course.},
}

@article {pmid40385805,
year = {2025},
author = {Moutinho, A and Fontes, J and Ferreira, L and Lopes, J and Martins, F and Mega, S and Gil, M and Barros, F and Correia, AM},
title = {Sepsis Alerts in the Pre-hospital Setting: An Observational Retrospective Study of Emergency Medical Services' Response in Portugal (2020-2023).},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {e82528},
pmid = {40385805},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Background Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that demands prompt recognition and intervention to enhance patient outcomes. Early identification and timely treatment, particularly in the prehospital setting, are essential. Objective This study aims to characterize sepsis pre-alerts issued by the Portuguese Emergency Medical Services (EMS) early warning system between May 2020 and December 2023, focusing on adult patients. It provides an overview of the alert system and examines associated clinical data, therapeutic interventions, and hospital referrals. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on sepsis pre-alerts from the Portuguese EMS database. Data collected included patient demographics, comorbidities, National Early Warning Score (NEWS), interventions administered, and outcomes. Results A total of 537 sepsis alerts were identified, with a median patient age of 83 years. The majority of patients had significant cardiovascular and neurological comorbidities. The average NEWS was 11.74. Advanced Life Support (ALS) or Integrated Life Support (ILS) teams were required in 76.9% (N=413) of cases. Interventions included intravenous fluid administration in 49.3% (N=265), oxygen therapy in 46.2% (N=248), and vasopressor use in 3.9% (N=14). Conclusions Effective prehospital sepsis management is crucial for improving patient outcomes. Challenges such as delayed hospital transfers, often due to regional constraints, highlight the need for enhanced integration between EMS and hospital care. Future efforts should focus on optimizing early sepsis management, fostering collaboration between EMS and hospital teams, and exploring the feasibility of prehospital antibiotic administration.},
}

@article {pmid40384575,
year = {2025},
author = {Vogt, C and Weber, M and Schneider, U and Neuwirth, C},
title = {Quinine Sulfate for Muscle Cramps in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Randomized, Double-Blind Crossover Trial.},
journal = {Muscle & nerve},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/mus.28440},
pmid = {40384575},
issn = {1097-4598},
support = {//Swiss ALS foundation/ ; //Hänseler AG/ ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION/AIMS: Many patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) experience muscle cramps during the course of the disease. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of orally administered quinine sulfate for muscle cramps in ALS patients.

METHODS: We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial in ALS patients experiencing daily muscle cramps. After a two-week run-in period, patients were assigned to receive 250 mg quinine sulfate once daily, followed by a placebo or vice versa. Each treatment period lasted 2 weeks and was followed by a 4-week washout period. Patients used a daily diary to rate muscle cramp intensity on the numeric rating scale (NRS) and record muscle cramp frequency. The primary outcome measure was change in cramp intensity; coprimary outcome measures were number of muscle cramps during daytime and nighttime.

RESULTS: Data from four women and three men were included in the analysis, all of whom reported a notable reduction in cramp intensity and frequency, leading them to continue the medication. Quinine sulfate was well-tolerated, with two patients reporting mild tinnitus. Cramp intensity was significantly reduced by 48% (p = 0.042). Further, the number of daytime muscle cramps declined significantly (p = 0.024).

DISCUSSION: Our findings suggest the potential efficacy of quinine sulfate in reducing muscle cramp intensity and frequency in ALS patients. However, the small sample size (n = 7) limits generalizability. Larger, multicenter studies are needed to confirm these results and fully assess its safety, serious adverse events, and therapeutic potential.},
}

@article {pmid40384011,
year = {2025},
author = {Changqing, L and Leying, Y and Caiyun, M and Hebao, W and Laiguo, H and Xiaojiang, Z},
title = {Causal Relationships Between the Gut Microbiota, Inflammatory Cytokines, and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Mendelian Randomization Analysis.},
journal = {Brain and behavior},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {e70571},
doi = {10.1002/brb3.70571},
pmid = {40384011},
issn = {2162-3279},
support = {//Philosophy and Social Sciences Foundation of the Anhui Higher Education Institutions of China/ ; //Provincial Quality Engineering Project of Higher Education Institutions of Anhui Province/ ; //Natural Science Foundation of the Higher Education Institutions of Anhui Province/ ; 202310367042//National College Students Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program/ ; //innovation and entrepreneurship training program for college students/ ; },
mesh = {*Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/genetics/microbiology ; Humans ; Mendelian Randomization Analysis ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/genetics/physiology ; *Cytokines/metabolism/genetics ; Genome-Wide Association Study ; Inflammation ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The relationship between gut microbiota (GM) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is well-documented. However, the causal nature of this association and the potential mediating role of inflammatory cytokines (ICs) have yet to be elucidated.

METHODS: We performed Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses utilizing data derived from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of GM, ICs, and ALS. Initially, we conducted bidirectional two-sample MR analysis to determine the causal relationships between GM, ICs, and ALS. Subsequently, a two-step MR mediation analysis was performed to investigate the role of ICs as mediators. The primary statistical approach was the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method.

RESULTS: Through MR analysis, we identified one positive causal relationship and three negative causal relationships between GM and ALS. There was one positive association and one negative association between ICs and ALS. In addition, ICs do not appear to mediate the pathway from GM to ALS.

CONCLUSION: This study established a causal relationship between GM, ICs, and ALS, suggesting that ICs do not function as mediators in the pathway from GM to ALS. These findings provide new perspectives on potential ALS prevention and treatment strategies.},
}

*Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/genetics/microbiology
Humans
Mendelian Randomization Analysis
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/genetics/physiology
*Cytokines/metabolism/genetics
Genome-Wide Association Study
Inflammation

@article {pmid40381433,
year = {2025},
author = {Begh, MZA and Zehravi, M and Bhuiyan, MAK and Molla, MR and Raman, K and Emran, TB and Ullah, MH and Ahmad, I and Osman, H and Khandaker, MU},
title = {Recent advances in stem cell approaches to neurodegeneration: A comprehensive review with mechanistic insight.},
journal = {Pathology, research and practice},
volume = {271},
number = {},
pages = {156013},
doi = {10.1016/j.prp.2025.156013},
pmid = {40381433},
issn = {1618-0631},
abstract = {The progressive nature of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, presents substantial problems because current treatments are still obscure. Stem cell-based treatments are emerging as a viable solution to address the significant gaps in treating these severe diseases. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the latest advancements in stem cell research, focusing on the treatment of NDs. Various types of stem cells, such as adult, induced pluripotent, and embryonic stem cells, and their potential applications in immunomodulation, neurotrophic factor release, and neuronal development are also discussed. Recent clinical studies reveal outcomes, challenges, and solutions, with advancements in disease-specific neural cell production, gene editing, and improved stem cell transplantation transport strategies. The review discussed future perspectives on developing more effective stem cell-based interventions. Biomaterials are being used for cell distribution and personalized medicine techniques to improve treatment outcomes, while exploring stem cell treatments for NDs and identifying areas for further research.},
}

@article {pmid40381165,
year = {2025},
author = {Esperante, I and Banzan, C and Munuera, JZ and Lima, A and Hunt, H and De Kloet, ER and Deniselle, MCG and De Nicola, AF and Meyer, M},
title = {The Selective Glucocorticoid Receptor Modulator Cort125329 Decreases Neuroinflammation and Gliosis and Enhances Myelination in the Wobbler Model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.},
journal = {Molecular neurobiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40381165},
issn = {1559-1182},
support = {PIP 2017PIP 2019 #11220170100002CO//Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas/ ; PIP 2017PIP 2019 #11220170100002CO//Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas/ ; PIP 2017PIP 2019 #11220170100002CO//Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas/ ; PIP 2017PIP 2019 #11220170100002CO//Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas/ ; PIP 2017PIP 2019 #11220170100002CO//Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas/ ; PIP 2017PIP 2019 #11220170100002CO//Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas/ ; PICT 2021 00389//Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovative Production of Argentina/ ; PICT 2021 00389//Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovative Production of Argentina/ ; PICT 2021 00389//Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovative Production of Argentina/ ; PICT 2021 00389//Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovative Production of Argentina/ ; PICT 2021 00389//Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovative Production of Argentina/ ; AFDN grant//CORCEPT Therapeutics/ ; AFDN grant//CORCEPT Therapeutics/ ; AFDN grant//CORCEPT Therapeutics/ ; AFDN grant//CORCEPT Therapeutics/ ; AFDN grant//CORCEPT Therapeutics/ ; AFDN grant//CORCEPT Therapeutics/ ; 20020170100224BA)//Universidad de Buenos Aires/ ; 20020170100224BA)//Universidad de Buenos Aires/ ; },
abstract = {The Wobbler mouse is a genetic model of familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Wobblers show spinal cord neurodegeneration associated with gliosis, neuroinflammation, and demyelination. Like human neurodegenerative diseases, Wobblers show high levels of corticosterone in the blood and the nervous system. The role of glucocorticoids in neuropathology is suggested by the observation that pathological signs attenuate with treatment with glucocorticoid receptor (GR) antagonists/modulators. In the present study, we demonstrated in 5-month-old clinically afflicted Wobbler mice that the selective GR modulator CORT125329 decreased motoneuron degeneration, astro- and microgliosis, and levels of pro-inflammatory factors (HMGB1, toll-like receptor 4, tumor necrosis factor α, and its receptor). In addition, CORT125329 increased the acetylcholine-producing enzyme choline acetyltransferase, the neurotrophin brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and their cellular colocalization. Furthermore, the increased oligodendrocyte number and a healthier myelin ultrastructure are consistent with the enhanced axonal myelination after CORT125329 treatment. Finally, the high expression of immunoreactive protein and mRNA levels of aquaporin4 in Wobblers was decreased by CORT125329 treatment, implying this water channel is a glucocorticoid target involved in neuropathology. The beneficial effects of CORT125329 correlated with enhanced motor behavioral performance and trophic changes of the forelimbs. In conclusion, our results support further preclinical and clinical studies on GR modulators in sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.},
}

@article {pmid40374790,
year = {2025},
author = {Verma, KK and Gaur, PK and Gupta, SL and Lata, K and Kaushik, R and Sharma, V},
title = {Metabolomics: a new frontier in neurodegenerative disease biomarker discovery.},
journal = {Metabolomics : Official journal of the Metabolomic Society},
volume = {21},
number = {3},
pages = {67},
pmid = {40374790},
issn = {1573-3890},
mesh = {Humans ; *Neurodegenerative Diseases/metabolism/diagnosis ; *Biomarkers/metabolism/analysis ; *Metabolomics/methods ; Animals ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Neurodegenerative disorders are a group of debilitating diseases affecting the central nervous system, and are characterized by the progressive loss of neurons, leading to declines in cognitive function, movement, and overall quality of life. While the exact causes remain elusive, it's believed that a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors contribute to their development. Metabolites, the end products of cellular processes, reflect the physiological state of an organism. By analysing these molecules, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of the underlying metabolic changes associated with neurodegenerative disorders.

AIM OF REVIEW: This review aims to explore the possibilities between metabolites and their association with neurodegenerative disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Multiple sclerosis (MS) and Huntington's disease (HD).

Metabolomic studies could potentially illuminate altered biochemical pathways, facilitating earlier detection and treatment of these conditions. Metabolomic investigations have revealed the role of oxidative stress, alterations in glucose and fat metabolism, mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptosis, glutamate excitotoxicity and alterations in myelin composition in neurodegenerative disorders. The common metabolic biomarkers identified includes glutamate, taurine, uric acid, branched chain amino acids, acylcarnitine, creatinine, choline, with some more amino acids and lipids. Metabolomics offers valuable insights into disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets by identifying biochemical and metabolic alterations, but still there are several aspects to be explored for accurate mapping of metabolites with specific pathway involved in the disease.},
}

Humans
*Neurodegenerative Diseases/metabolism/diagnosis
*Biomarkers/metabolism/analysis
*Metabolomics/methods
Animals

@article {pmid40364643,
year = {2025},
author = {Wen, X and Lan, T and Su, W and Cao, B and Wang, Y and Chen, Y},
title = {Latest progress and challenges in drug development for degenerative motor neuron diseases.},
journal = {Neural regeneration research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.4103/NRR.NRR-D-24-01266},
pmid = {40364643},
issn = {1673-5374},
abstract = {Motor neuron diseases are sporadic or inherited fatal neurodegenerative conditions. They selectively affect the upper and/or lower motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord and feature a slow onset and a subacute course contingent upon the site of damage. The main types include amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, progressive muscular atrophy, primary lateral sclerosis, and progressive bulbar palsy, the pathological processes of which are largely identical, with the main disparity lying in the location of the lesions. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is the representative condition in this group of diseases, while other types are its variants. Hence, this article mainly focuses on the advancements and challenges in drug research for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis but also briefly addresses several other important degenerative motor neuron diseases. Although the precise pathogenesis remains elusive, recent advancements have shed light on various theories, including gene mutation, excitatory amino acid toxicity, autoimmunology, and neurotrophic factors. The US Food and Drug Administration has approved four drugs for use in delaying the progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: riluzole, edaravone, AMX0035, and tofersen, with the latter being the most recent to receive approval. However, following several phase III trials that failed to yield favorable outcomes, AMX0035 has been voluntarily withdrawn from both the US and Canadian markets. This article presents a comprehensive summary of drug trials primarily completed between January 1, 2023, and June 30, 2024, based on data sourced from clinicaltrials.gov. Among these trials, five are currently in phase I, seventeen are in phase II, and eleven are undergoing phase III evaluation. Notably, 24 clinical trials are now investigating potential disease-modifying therapy drugs, accounting for the majority of the drugs included in this review. Some promising drugs being investigated in preclinical studies, such as ATH-1105, are included in our analysis, and another review in frontiers in gene therapy and immunotherapy has demonstrated their therapeutic potential for motor neuron diseases. This article was written to be an overview of research trends and treatment prospects related to motor neuron disease drugs, with the aim of highlighting the latest potentialities for clinical therapy.},
}

@article {pmid40362582,
year = {2025},
author = {Kitaoka, Y and Uchihashi, T and Kawata, S and Nishiura, A and Yamamoto, T and Hiraoka, SI and Yokota, Y and Isomura, ET and Kogo, M and Tanaka, S and Spigelman, I and Seki, S},
title = {Role and Potential of Artificial Intelligence in Biomarker Discovery and Development of Treatment Strategies for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms26094346},
pmid = {40362582},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {24K13154//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 21K10091//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 24K13113//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 23K09351//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 24K13112//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; },
mesh = {*Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/therapy/diagnosis/metabolism ; Humans ; *Biomarkers/metabolism ; *Artificial Intelligence ; Proteomics/methods ; Neuroimaging/methods ; Deep Learning ; },
abstract = {Neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), present significant challenges owing to their complex pathologies and a lack of curative treatments. Early detection and reliable biomarkers are critical but remain elusive. Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative tool, enabling advancements in biomarker discovery, diagnostic accuracy, and therapeutic development. From optimizing clinical-trial designs to leveraging omics and neuroimaging data, AI facilitates understanding of disease and treatment innovation. Notably, technologies such as AlphaFold and deep learning models have revolutionized proteomics and neuroimaging, offering unprecedented insights into ALS pathophysiology. This review highlights the intersection of AI and ALS, exploring the current state of progress and future therapeutic prospects.},
}

*Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/therapy/diagnosis/metabolism
Humans
*Biomarkers/metabolism
*Artificial Intelligence
Proteomics/methods
Neuroimaging/methods
Deep Learning

@article {pmid40360341,
year = {2025},
author = {Lin, W and Huang, C and Tan, Z and Xu, H and Wei, W and Wang, L},
title = {Cu[II]-bis(thioureido) Complex: A Potential Radiotracer for Detecting Oxidative Stress and Neuroinflammation in Neurodegenerative Diseases.},
journal = {Seminars in nuclear medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1053/j.semnuclmed.2025.03.008},
pmid = {40360341},
issn = {1558-4623},
abstract = {Neurodegenerative diseases, characterized by progressive neuronal degeneration and associated with neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, present significant challenges in diagnosis and treatment. This review explores the potential of copper(II)-bis(thiosemicarbazone) complexes, particularly Cu-ATSM, as a dual-purpose radiopharmaceutical for imaging and therapeutic interventions. Cu-ATSM exhibits unique redox-dependent retention in pathological microenvironments, driven by mitochondrial dysfunction and hyper-reductive states, which enables the noninvasive detection of oxidative stress via positron emission tomography (PET). Preclinical studies demonstrate its efficacy in mitigating neuroinflammation by suppressing glial activation, reducing the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, MCP-1), and increasing the expression of neuroprotective metallothionein-1 (MT1). Some Clinical research reveals elevated [64]Cu-ATSM uptake in Parkinson's disease (PD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients, correlating with disease severity and regional oxidative stress markers. Furthermore, Cu-ATSM derivatives show promise in modulating blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability, enhancing amyloid-β clearance, and restoring copper homeostasis in ALS models. Despite these advances, limitations such as small cohort sizes and heterogeneity in clinical studies underscore the need for larger-scale validation. Multimodal imaging integrating PET and MRI, alongside novel structural analogs targeting Aβ plaques and redox imbalances, emerges as a strategic direction for future research. Collectively, Cu-ATSM represents a transformative tool for elucidating neuropathological mechanisms and advancing therapeutic strategies in neurodegenerative disorders.},
}

@article {pmid40355776,
year = {2025},
author = {Hirose, S and Kobatake, Y and Tada, N and Kandeel, M and Itoh, A and Oh-Hashi, K},
title = {NanoBiT-based Analysis of Canine SOD1 Protein Dynamics: Understanding the Role of CCS and Ebselen Derivatives as Potential Therapeutics for Canine Degenerative Myelopathy.},
journal = {Cell biochemistry and biophysics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40355776},
issn = {1559-0283},
support = {KFU241899//Deanship of Scientific Research, Vice Presidency for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research, King Faisal University/ ; },
abstract = {Canine degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that shares common pathological features with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in humans. Both diseases are linked to mutations in the superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) gene. Understanding the molecular differences between wild-type (WT) and mutant SOD1 proteins is critical for developing therapeutic strategies. In this study, we employed the NanoLuc complementation (NanoBiT) reporter system to investigate the expression and functional differences between WT and E40K mutant canine SOD1 to assess the therapeutic potential of copper chaperone for SOD1 (CCS) and ebselen derivatives. E40K cSOD1 displayed significantly reduced luciferase activity compared to WT cSOD1 in all NanoBiT-tagged combinations, indicating altered homodimerization and protein stability. Co-transfection with CCS increased both WT and mutant cSOD1 protein levels and reporter activities, with a more pronounced effect on the E40K mutant. Ebselen treatment enhanced luciferase activity, particularly in E40K cSOD1-expressing cells. Two compounds (compounds 2 and 5) were stronger than the parent compound in improving mutant cSOD1-derived NanoBiT activities. Additionally, molecular docking simulations revealed stronger binding affinities of ebselen and its derivatives to E40K cSOD1, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits. In conclusion, the NanoLuc reporter system offers a valuable tool for screening potential therapeutics for SOD1-linked neurodegenerative diseases. CCS and ebselen derivatives exhibited promising effects on SOD1 activity, providing a basis for future therapeutic strategies targeting both DM and ALS.},
}

@article {pmid40354799,
year = {2025},
author = {Bensimon, G and Leigh, PN and Tree, T and Malaspina, A and Payan, CA and Pham, HP and Klaassen, P and Shaw, PJ and Al Khleifat, A and Amador, MDM and Attarian, S and Bell, SM and Beltran, S and Bernard, E and Camu, W and Corcia, P and Corvol, JC and Couratier, P and Danel, V and Debs, R and Desnuelle, C and Dimitriou, A and Ealing, J and Esselin, F and Fleury, MC and Gorrie, GH and Grapperon, AM and Hesters, A and Juntas-Morales, R and Kolev, I and Lautrette, G and Le Forestier, N and McDermott, CJ and Pageot, N and Salachas, F and Sharma, N and Soriani, MH and Sreedharan, J and Svahn, J and Verber, N and Verschueren, A and Yildiz, O and Suehs, CM and Saker-Delye, S and Muller, C and Masseguin, C and Hajduchova, H and Kirby, J and Garlanda, C and Locati, M and Zetterberg, H and Asselain, B and Al-Chalabi, A and , },
title = {Efficacy and safety of low-dose IL-2 as an add-on therapy to riluzole (MIROCALS): a phase 2b, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial.},
journal = {Lancet (London, England)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/S0140-6736(25)00262-4},
pmid = {40354799},
issn = {1474-547X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a life-threatening disease characterised by progressive loss of motor neurons with few therapeutic options. The MIROCALS study tested the hypothesis that low-dose interleukin-2 (IL-2LD) improves survival and function in ALS.

METHODS: In this randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, male and female riluzole-naive participants, with either a possible, laboratory-supported probable, probable, or definite ALS diagnosis (revised El Escorial criteria), aged 18-76 years, with symptom duration of 24 months or fewer, and slow vital capacity of 70% or more, underwent a riluzole-only 12-18 week run-in period before randomisation in a 1:1 ratio to either 2 million international units (MIU) IL-2LD or placebo by subcutaneous injection daily for 5 days every 28 days over 18 months. The primary endpoint was survival at 640 days (21 months). Secondary outcomes included safety, ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R) score, and biomarker measurements including regulatory T-cells (Tregs), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-phosphorylated-neurofilament heavy-chain (CSF-pNFH), and plasma and CSF-chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2). The primary endpoint analysis used unadjusted log-rank and Cox's model adjusted analyses using pre-defined prognostic covariates to control for the disease and treatment response heterogeneity. The study was 80% powered to detect a two-fold decrease in the risk of death by the log-rank test in the intention-to-treat (ITT) population, including all randomly allocated participants. MIROCALS is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03039673) and is complete.

FINDINGS: From June 19, 2017, to Oct 16, 2019, 304 participants were screened, of whom 220 (72%) met all criteria for random allocation after the 12-to-18-week run-in period on riluzole. 136 (62%) of participants were male and 84 participants (38%) were female. 25 (11%) of the 220 randomly allocated participants were defined as having possible ALS under El Escorial criteria. At the cutoff date there was no loss to follow-up, and all 220 patients who were randomly allocated were documented as either deceased (90 [41%]) or alive (130 [59%]), so all participants were included in the ITT and safety populations. The primary endpoint unadjusted analysis showed a non-significant 19% decrease in risk of death with IL-2LD (hazard ratio 0·81 [95% CI 0·54-1·22], p=0·33), failing to demonstrate the expected two-fold decrease in risk of death. The analysis of the primary endpoint adjusted on prognostic covariates, all measured at time of random allocation, showed a significant decrease of the risk of death with IL-2LD (0·32 [0·14-0·73], p=0·007), with a significant treatment by CSF-pNFH interaction (1·0003 [1·0001-1·0005], p=0·001). IL-2LD was safe, and significantly increased Tregs and decreased plasma-CCL2 at all timepoints. Stratification on CSF-pNFH levels measured at random allocation showed that IL-2LD was associated with a significant 48% decrease in risk of death (0·52 [0·30-0·89], p=0·016) in the 70% of the population with low (750-3700 pg/mL) CSF-pNFH levels, while in the 21% with high levels (>3700 pg/mL), there was no significant difference (1·37 [0·68-2·75], p=0·38).

INTERPRETATION: With this treatment schedule, IL-2LD resulted in a non-significant reduction in mortality in the primary unadjusted analysis. However, the difference between the results of unadjusted and adjusted analyses of the primary endpoint emphasises the importance of controlling for disease heterogeneity in ALS randomised controlled trials. The decrease in risk of death achieved by IL-2LD therapy in the trial population with low CSF-pNFH levels requires further investigation of the potential benefit of this therapy in ALS.

FUNDING: European Commission H2020 Programme; French Health Ministry PHRC2014; and Motor Neurone Disease Association.},
}

@article {pmid40353466,
year = {2025},
author = {Dhasmana, S and Dhasmana, A and Khan, S and Narula, AS and Haque, S and Yallapu, MM and Chauhan, SC},
title = {Excessive Urinary p75ecd is a Potential Indicator of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: An American Cohort Study.},
journal = {Current neuropharmacology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.2174/011570159X352364250212035802},
pmid = {40353466},
issn = {1875-6190},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an idiopathic, fatal, and rapidly progressive neurodegenerative disease. At present, neurofilament light (NFL) and phosphorylated neurofilament heavy (pNfH) proteins in biological fluids are commonly known prognostic biomarkers, but their levels stabilize over time. Thus, there is a critical gap in the field to identify unique biomarkers that can aid disease diagnosis, progression and monitoring the therapy response.

AIM: To evaluate the presence of extracellular domain of p75 (p75ecd) in urine of ALS patients and healthy control volunteers in the North American cohort.

METHOD: An enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) and creatinine assay was used to determine the levels of p75ecd and creatinine in the urine of ALS patients and healthy control volunteers respectively. This assay demonstrated clear discrimination in the levels of the p75ecd in the urine samples of ALS patients as compared to healthy individuals.

RESULTS: It was found that the concentration of p75ecd in ALS samples was significantly higher than that of healthy controls group. Additionally, high p75ecd levels were segregated with respect to age, sex, family history, occupation and drug treatment, medication status. Moreover, we observed differential expression patterns among the different stages of the disease. Our results followed the pattern that was observed in the Chinese, and Australian cohort.

CONCLUSION: Altogether, our results indicate that the development of an efficient system for the detection of elevated levels of p75ecd in the urine could serve as a useful modality for early ALS diagnosis, disease progression, and monitoring the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions.},
}

@article {pmid40350531,
year = {2025},
author = {Woo, TG and Han, J and Kim, Y and Hwang, YJ and Lee, M and Kang, SM and Park, S and Ji, Y and Chung, YH and Baek, S and Shin, E and Minju-Kim, and Jang, H and Shin, YJ and Kwon, Y and Kim, BH and Park, BJ},
title = {Inhibition of SOD1 trimerization is a novel drug target for ALS disease.},
journal = {Translational neurodegeneration},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {21},
pmid = {40350531},
issn = {2047-9158},
support = {RS-2024-00399681//Ministry of Science and ICT, South Korea/ ; RS-2024-00339289//Ministry of Science and ICT, South Korea/ ; RS-2023-00258714//Korea Drug Development Fund/ ; },
mesh = {*Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/drug therapy/metabolism/genetics ; *Superoxide Dismutase-1/metabolism/genetics/antagonists & inhibitors ; Animals ; Humans ; Mice ; Mice, Transgenic ; *Protein Multimerization/drug effects ; Disease Models, Animal ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that begins with motor neuron death in the spinal cord and cerebral cortex, ultimately resulting in death from respiratory distress (breathing failure). About 90% of ALS cases are sporadic, and 10% of ALS cases are of the inherited type with a genetic cause. About 150 different gene mutations have been reported so far. SOD1 is a well-identified gene associated with ALS. Indeed, SOD1 aggregation has been reported in ALS patients, but the mechanism of SOD1 aggregation remains unclear. Our previous work showed that inhibiting SOD1 aggregation with a hit compound (PRG-A-01) could reduce the SOD1-induced cytotoxicity and extend the lifespan of ALS mouse model (SOD1[G93A-Tg]). However, the low bioavailability and rapid degradation of the compound in vivo necessitates the development of a more effective candidate. We generated different derivatives and finally obtained the most potential drug candidate, PRG-A-04.

METHODS: Neuronal cell lines were transfected with the mutant SOD1 expression vector and incubated with PRG-A-04. SOD1 aggregation was examined by SOD1 oligomerization assay, immunofluorescence and dot blot assay. The interaction between GST-conjugated SOD1 recombinant proteins and PRG-A-04 was identified using LC-MS/MS and GST pull-down assay. To check the in vivo therapeutic effect of PRG-A-04, SOD1[G93A-Tg] mice were injected with PRG-A-04; then behavioral test, histological analysis and microarray were performed.

RESULTS: PRG-A-04 demonstrated favorable pharmacokinetics including high bioavailability and significant blood-brain barrier penetration. Indeed, oral administration of PRG-A-04 in ALS mouse model inhibited the aggregation of SOD1 in the spinal cord, protected against neuronal loss, and extended the lifespan of ALS mice by up to 3 weeks. In vitro, PRG-A-04 selectively bound to the mutant form of SOD1, but not the wild type, and efficiently inhibited the aggregation caused by SOD1-G147P (a SOD1 trimer stabilizer).

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings underscore the potential of targeting trimeric SOD1 in ALS treatment, positioning PRG-A-04 as a strong drug candidate for both familial and sporadic ALS.},
}

*Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/drug therapy/metabolism/genetics
*Superoxide Dismutase-1/metabolism/genetics/antagonists & inhibitors
Animals
Humans
Mice
Mice, Transgenic
*Protein Multimerization/drug effects
Disease Models, Animal

@article {pmid40347374,
year = {2025},
author = {Varshney, V and Gabble, BC and Bishoyi, AK and Varma, P and Qahtan, SA and Kashyap, A and Panigrahi, R and Nathiya, D and Chauhan, AS},
title = {Exploring Exosome-Based Approaches for Early Diagnosis and Treatment of Neurodegenerative Diseases.},
journal = {Molecular neurobiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40347374},
issn = {1559-1182},
abstract = {Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), like Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), present an increasingly significant global health burden, primarily due to the lack of effective early diagnostic tools and treatments. Exosomes-nano-sized extracellular vesicles secreted by nearly all cell types-have emerged as promising candidates for both biomarkers and therapeutic agents in NDs. This review examines the biogenesis, molecular composition, and diverse functions of exosomes in NDs. Exosomes play a crucial role in mediating intercellular communication. They are capable of reflecting the biochemical state of their parent cells and have the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB). In doing so, they facilitate the propagation of pathological proteins, such as amyloid-beta (Aβ), tau, and alpha-synuclein (α-syn), while also enabling the targeted delivery of neuroprotective compounds. Recent advancements in exosome isolation and engineering have opened up new possibilities for diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. These range from the discovery of non-invasive biomarkers to innovative approaches in gene therapy and drug delivery systems. However, challenges related to standardization, safety, and long-term effects must be addressed before exosomes can be translated into clinical applications. This review highlights both the promising potential and the obstacles that must be overcome to leverage exosomes in the treatment of NDs and the transformation of personalized medicine.},
}

@article {pmid40346952,
year = {2025},
author = {Çelik, F},
title = {Xenon in ALS Treatment: What Are We Waiting for?.},
journal = {CNS neuroscience & therapeutics},
volume = {31},
number = {5},
pages = {e70435},
doi = {10.1111/cns.70435},
pmid = {40346952},
issn = {1755-5949},
}

@article {pmid40344633,
year = {2025},
author = {Tang, S and Shi, J and Li, X and Yang, M and Li, C and Zhang, D and Yang, S and Mei, C and Luo, Z and Zhang, L and Zhang, W and Zhang, C and Zhu, C and Ma, X and Xia, R and Chen, Y and Zhang, J and Chen, Q and Chen, S and Xie, Q and Yu, F},
title = {Development and Breeding of Herbicide-Resistant Sorghum for Effective Cereal-Legume Intercropping.},
journal = {Advanced science (Weinheim, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e2503083},
doi = {10.1002/advs.202503083},
pmid = {40344633},
issn = {2198-3844},
support = {YZGG-04//Sorghum Seed Industry Innovation and Improved Joint Research Project of Shanxi Province/ ; 2023YFD1200700//National Key R&D Program of China/ ; 2023YFF1001400//National Key R&D Program of China/ ; 32222010//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32430077//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Weeds bring a serious challenge to crop production, and herbicides is the most effective and economic way to manage it in field. Sorghum is a critical crop for staple food, fodder, and biofuel. However, the lack of herbicide-resistant sorghum germplasm severely impedes its production. Here, we conducted a large-scale screening and identified 13 sorghum mutant lines resistant to imidazolinone (IMI) herbicides. Two unique mutation sites in SbALS (acetolactate synthase), thus namely Sbals-1 (A93T) and Sbals-2 (S624N) are discovered, both enhance sorghum tolerance to imazamox. Notably, under high concentrations of imazamox, sbals-1 presented a superior growth phenotype and elevated SbALS activity than sbals-2, a difference that can be attributed to the predicted protein structures. Breeding with Sbals, both grain- and grass-type sorghum, shows great weed control and field performance. The herbicide imazamox resistance is further evaluated in a soybean population for sorghum-soybean strip intercropping, identifying 123 highly resistant soybean varieties. Field intercropping tests indicated health growth of both soybean and sorghum lines post-imazamox treatment, which enhance field clearance of weed. This study, therefore, provides valuable insights not only for herbicide-resistant sorghum breeding but also for the successful implementation of efficient and sustainable cereal-legume intercropping systems.},
}

@article {pmid40280464,
year = {2025},
author = {Gritsiuta, AI and Reep, G and Parupudi, S and Petrov, RV},
title = {Optimizing the management of anastomotic leaks after esophagectomy: a narrative review of salvage strategies and outcomes.},
journal = {Journal of gastrointestinal surgery : official journal of the Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract},
volume = {29},
number = {7},
pages = {102069},
doi = {10.1016/j.gassur.2025.102069},
pmid = {40280464},
issn = {1873-4626},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Anastomotic leaks (ALs) after esophagectomy remain a major postoperative complication, leading to increased morbidity, prolonged hospital stays, and higher mortality. Despite advancements in surgical techniques and perioperative care, AL management lacks standardized protocols. This review aimed to evaluate current salvage strategies, including conservative, endoscopic, and surgical approaches, to optimize outcomes and reduce complications.

METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar databases to identify studies published between 2000 and 2025 on AL management after esophagectomy. Peer-reviewed clinical trials, guidelines, and expert consensus reports were reviewed, focusing on minimally invasive and surgical interventions, patient outcomes, and emerging treatment strategies.

RESULTS: AL management strategies were classified into 3 primary approaches. Conservative management includes nutritional support, antibiotic therapy, and percutaneous drainage, particularly for contained leaks. Endoscopic interventions, such as self-expanding metal stents and endoscopic vacuum-assisted closure, have shown high success rates, with vacuum-assisted closure achieving superior closure outcomes. Hybrid techniques, including stent-over-sponge and vacuum-assisted closure-stent, are emerging as promising alternatives. Surgical interventions remain the gold standard for severe or refractory leaks with options, including primary repair, esophageal diversion, and delayed conduit reconstruction.

CONCLUSION: A multidisciplinary approach is crucial for optimizing AL management, incorporating enhanced recovery protocols, early risk assessment, and individualized treatment plans. Endoscopic techniques have reduced the need for surgical revisions, but surgical intervention remains necessary for severe cases. Future research should focus on refining treatment algorithms, integrating novel technologies, and establishing standardized guidelines to improve patient survival and quality of life.},
}

@article {pmid40333935,
year = {2025},
author = {Vanderlinden, G and Carron, C and Van Weehaeghe, D and De Vocht, J and Ombelet, F and Masrori, P and De Weerdt, C and James, RE and Evans, LT and Schroeder, FA and Hooker, JM and Koole, M and Kranz, JE and Gilbert, TM and Van Damme, P and Van Laere, K},
title = {Histone Deacetylase 6 Brain PET in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis-Frontotemporal Spectrum Disorder.},
journal = {Annals of clinical and translational neurology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/acn3.70067},
pmid = {40333935},
issn = {2328-9503},
support = {//Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration/ ; //Target ALS/ ; //Eikonizo Therapeutics/ ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: [[18]F]EKZ-001 is a positron emission tomography (PET) tracer targeting histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6), an enzyme responsible for intracellular transport and clearance of misfolded proteins. HDAC6 modulation is a promising treatment strategy in neurodegenerative disorders, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Apart from motor symptoms, people with ALS (pwALS) can show a variable degree of cognitive impairment as part of the ALS-frontotemporal spectrum disorder (ALS-FTSD). This work assessed [[18]F]EKZ-001 binding in pwALS with variable involvement of FTSD.

METHODS: Twenty-four pwALS (13M/11F, 61 ± 10 years) and 12 healthy controls (HC) (6M/6F, 58 ± 3 years) were included. Thirteen pwALS were cognitively normal (ALS-CN), and eleven pwALS presented with FTSD (ALS-FTSD) ranging from mild cognitive or behavioral impairment to FTD, according to their performance on the Edinburgh cognitive and behavioral ALS screen (ECAS). All subjects underwent dynamic PET-MR imaging with arterial sampling, and regional distribution volumes (VT) were calculated using a Logan graphical analysis.

RESULTS: [[18]F]EKZ-001 VT was significantly lower in pwALS compared to HC. For ALS-CN, the largest reduction was found in the brainstem. For ALS-FTSD, reductions were more widespread in both gray and white matter. No differences in VT were found between pwALS with and without a C9orf72 mutation. [[18]F]EKZ-001 VT was not correlated with ECAS scores, age, or disease duration.

INTERPRETATION: [[18]F]EKZ-001 binding is lower throughout the brain in pwALS compared to HC. This may be related to a compensatory mechanism to repair intracellular transport defects in ALS or to reduced HDAC6 enzyme availability for [[18]F]EKZ-001 binding due to sequestration of HDAC6 within protein aggregates.},
}

@article {pmid40228660,
year = {2025},
author = {Veenstra, J and Ozog, D and Stephens, A},
title = {Response to Barbieri, "Response to Veenstra et al's 'Benzoyl peroxide acne treatment shows no significant association with benzene-related cancers: A multicenter retrospective analysis'".},
journal = {Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jaad.2025.03.090},
pmid = {40228660},
issn = {1097-6787},
}

@article {pmid40326917,
year = {2025},
author = {van Eijk, RPA and Weemering, DN and Opie-Martin, S and van Unnik, JWJ and Caravaca Puchades, A and Chiò, A and Corcia, P and Galvin, M and Hardiman, O and Heverin, M and Hobin, F and Holmdahl, O and Ingre, C and Lamaire, N and Mac Domhnaill, É and McDonough, H and Manera, U and McDermott, CJ and McFarlane, R and Mouzouri, M and Ombelet, F and Povedano Panadés, M and Sennfält, S and Shaw, PJ and Terrafeta Pastor, C and Van Damme, P and Vasta, R and Veldink, JH and Al-Chalabi, A and van den Berg, LH},
title = {Natural history of the revised ALS functional rating scale and its association with survival: the PRECISION-ALS Extant Study.},
journal = {Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis & frontotemporal degeneration},
volume = {26},
number = {sup1},
pages = {30-40},
doi = {10.1080/21678421.2024.2443985},
pmid = {40326917},
issn = {2167-9223},
mesh = {Humans ; *Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/mortality/diagnosis/physiopathology ; Male ; Female ; Middle Aged ; Disease Progression ; Aged ; Longitudinal Studies ; Cohort Studies ; Adult ; Severity of Illness Index ; Survival Rate/trends ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To characterize the natural history of the revised ALS functional rating scale (ALSFRS-R) over a 24-month period following initial assessment, and to assess its associations with survival.

METHODS: Longitudinal ALSFRS-R measurements and survival data were obtained from seven population-based, European cohorts. Different models for the ALSFRS-R trajectory were evaluated, including tests for linearity and between-cohort differences. We employed a joint modeling framework to factor in mortality, thereby aiming to derive a more precise estimate of the population's rate of decline, while simultaneously delineating its relationship with survival.

RESULTS: In total, 7,030 patients were included who produced 31,746 ALSFRS-R measurements during a follow-up period of 10,285 person-years. There was substantial evidence for a non-linear time trend within all cohorts (all p < 0.001), with faster progression rates at the beginning of follow-up. The average rate over 24 months was 0.89 points per month; 95% of the patients had a rate between 0.04 and 1.96. Overall, two components of the ALSFRS-R trajectory were found to be associated with survival: (1) the actual value of the ALSFRS-R total score and (2) the rate of change at any given time (both p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS: Functional loss in ALS follows a decelerating trajectory, where the current functional status and the rate of change have a direct impact on the patient' s probability of survival. Given the pivotal role of the ALSFRS-R in drug development, these results help to separate treatment benefit from the disease's natural trajectory and to estimate the impact on survival.},
}

Humans
*Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/mortality/diagnosis/physiopathology
Male
Female
Middle Aged
Disease Progression
Aged
Longitudinal Studies
Cohort Studies
Adult
Severity of Illness Index
Survival Rate/trends

@article {pmid40326914,
year = {2025},
author = {Vasta, R and Ombelet, F and Hobin, F and Manera, U and Ammar, AC and Caravaca Puchades, A and Corcia, P and Galvin, M and Hardiman, O and Heverin, M and Holmdahl, O and Ingre, C and Lamaire, N and McDermott, C and Mac Domhnaill, É and McDonough, H and McFarlane, R and Mouzouri, M and Sarah, OM and Povedano Panadés, M and Sennfält, S and Shaw, P and Terrafeta Pastor, C and van den Berg, LH and van Eijk, RPA and Veldink, JH and Weemering, DN and Van Damme, P and Chiò, A},
title = {Real-world prognostic role of riluzole use in ALS: a multi-center study from PRECISION-ALS.},
journal = {Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis & frontotemporal degeneration},
volume = {26},
number = {sup1},
pages = {50-60},
doi = {10.1080/21678421.2025.2472889},
pmid = {40326914},
issn = {2167-9223},
mesh = {Humans ; *Riluzole/therapeutic use ; *Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/drug therapy/mortality/diagnosis ; Male ; Female ; Middle Aged ; *Neuroprotective Agents/therapeutic use ; Retrospective Studies ; Aged ; Prognosis ; Disease Progression ; Adult ; Kaplan-Meier Estimate ; Treatment Outcome ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) remains an incurable disease, with limited treatment options, and riluzole is the most widely available drug. We evaluated survival in a large cohort of patients with ALS, comparing those treated with riluzole to those who were not.

METHODS: Using data from the PRECISION-ALS database, we retrospectively analyzed patients with ALS who were treated with 100 mg of riluzole daily at the time of diagnosis. ALSFRS-R slope from onset to diagnosis (ΔFRS) was calculated. Based on the ΔFRS distribution, we defined fast progressors as patients having a ΔFRS > 1.17, intermediate progressors as those with 1.17 > ΔFRS > 0.31 and slow progressors as those with a ΔFRS < 0.31 points per month. We used Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards model to explore the association of riluzole use with patient survival since diagnosis.

RESULTS: Out of the 5842 patients with available riluzole data, 4847 (82.9%) received riluzole. The overall survival significantly differed between patients treated and not treated with riluzole (HR 0.70, 95%CI 0.69, 0.79), independently of sex, site of onset, age at onset and diagnostic delay. Patients treated with riluzole exhibited a 7 month longer median survival than those who did not receive riluzole (17.6 months, IQR 9.7, 29.9 vs 10.7 months, IQR 4.3, 23.4; p = 2 × 10[-16]). The relationship between riluzole use and extended survival varied across ΔFRS strata, being only evident among fast progressors (HR = 0.50, 95% 0.40, 0.63).

CONCLUSIONS: Treatment with riluzole is an independent prognostic factor in ALS. The extended survival related to riluzole use was only evident among fast-progressing patients.},
}

Humans
*Riluzole/therapeutic use
*Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/drug therapy/mortality/diagnosis
Male
Female
Middle Aged
*Neuroprotective Agents/therapeutic use
Retrospective Studies
Aged
Prognosis
Disease Progression
Adult
Kaplan-Meier Estimate
Treatment Outcome

@article {pmid40324960,
year = {2025},
author = {Simkins Lead, T and Shefner, JM and Kupfer, S and Malik, FI and Meng, L and Rudnicki, SA and Wei, J and van Eijk, RP},
title = {Application of the ENCALS predictive survival model in assessing the effect of the 24/44 inclusion criteria in FORTITUDE-ALS.},
journal = {Journal of neuromuscular diseases},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {22143602251336058},
doi = {10.1177/22143602251336058},
pmid = {40324960},
issn = {2214-3602},
abstract = {FORTITUDE-ALS was a study evaluating reldesemtiv in people living with ALS. Post-hoc analysis identified larger treatment effects in those with symptom onset ≤24 months and baseline ALSFRS-R ≤ 44 (24/44 criteria). Using the ENCALS risk score (RS), we analyzed how the 24/44 criteria changed the eligible population. Of the 272 participants meeting the 24/44 criteria, 73% had very short to intermediate RS compared to 18% not meeting the criteria. Though the 24/44 criteria enriched the FORTITUDE-ALS population with rapidly progressing patients, they did not completely exclude all patients with a very long predicted survival.},
}

@article {pmid40314791,
year = {2025},
author = {Iuzzolino, VV and Scaravilli, A and Carignani, G and Senerchia, G and Pontillo, G and Dubbioso, R and Cocozza, S},
title = {Mapping motor and extra-motor gray and white matter changes in ALS: a comprehensive review of MRI insights.},
journal = {Neuroradiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40314791},
issn = {1432-1920},
abstract = {Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease primarily affecting motor neurons, yet with substantial clinical variability. Furthermore, beyond motor symptoms, ALS patients also show non-motor features, reflecting its classification as a multi-system disorder. The identification of reliable biomarkers is a critical challenge for improving diagnosis, tracking disease progression, and predicting patient outcomes. This review explores macro- and microstructural alterations in ALS, focusing on gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM) as observed through Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). This approach synthesizes not only the expected involvement of motor areas but also highlights emerging evidence that these changes extend to extra-motor areas, such as the frontal and temporal lobes, underscoring the complex pathophysiology of ALS. The review emphasizes the potential of MRI as a non-invasive tool to provide new biomarkers by assessing both GM and WM integrity, a key advancement in ALS research. Additionally, it addresses existing discrepancies in findings and stresses the need for standardized imaging protocols. It also highlights the role of multi-modal MRI approaches in deepening our understanding of ALS pathology, emphasizing the importance of combining structural and diffusion MRI techniques to offer more comprehensive insights into ALS progression, ultimately advancing the potential for personalized treatment strategies and improving patient outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid40314217,
year = {2025},
author = {Ju, T and Zhang, Y and Liu, L and Zhao, X and Li, X and Liu, C and Sun, S and Wu, LA},
title = {The role of gut microbiota-mitochondria crosstalk in neurodegeneration: Underlying mechanisms and potential therapies.},
journal = {Neural regeneration research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.4103/NRR.NRR-D-24-01419},
pmid = {40314217},
issn = {1673-5374},
abstract = {Emerging evidence suggests that the gut microbiota is closely associated with the pathological manifestations of multiple neurodegenerative diseases via the gut-brain axis, which refers to the crosstalk between the gut and the central nervous system. More importantly, mitochondria have been considered prominent mediators of the interplay between the gut microbiota and the brain. Intestinal microbes may modulate mitochondrial function in the central nervous system to affect the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Mitochondria are essential for meeting the host's substantial neuronal metabolic demands, maintaining excitability, and facilitating synaptic transmission. Dysfunctional mitochondria are considered critical hallmarks of various neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, this review provides novel insights into the intricate roles of gut microbiota-mitochondrial crosstalk in the underlying mechanisms during the progression of neurodegeneration, as well as the existing potential therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative disorders. These suggest intestinal microbiota-mitochondrial interaction play a crucial role in the occurrence and development of neurodegenerative diseases, and targeting this interaction may be a promising therapeutic approach to neurodegenerative diseases. However, this review found that there was relatively little research on the effect of this crosstalk on other neurodegenerative diseases, such as Huntington's disease and Multiple sclerosis, and the potential therapeutic strategies were translated into clinical trials, which face many challenges in developing personalized treatment plans based on the unique gut microbiota of different individuals.},
}

@article {pmid40313114,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhou, M and Zheng, M and Liang, S and Li, M and Ma, J and Zhang, S and Song, X and Hu, Y and Lyu, Y and Ou, X and Yue, C},
title = {Inherent potential of mitochondria-targeted interventions for chronic neurodegenerative diseases.},
journal = {Neural regeneration research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.4103/NRR.NRR-D-24-01507},
pmid = {40313114},
issn = {1673-5374},
abstract = {The cure rate for chronic neurodegenerative diseases remains low, creating an urgent need for improved intervention methods. Recent studies have shown that enhancing mitochondrial function can mitigate the effects of these diseases. This paper comprehensively reviews the relationship between mitochondrial dysfunction and chronic neurodegenerative diseases, aiming to uncover the potential use of targeted mitochondrial interventions as viable therapeutic options. We detail five targeted mitochondrial intervention strategies for chronic neurodegenerative diseases that act by promoting mitophagy, inhibiting mitochondrial fission, enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis, applying mitochondria-targeting antioxidants, and transplanting mitochondria. Each method has unique advantages and potential limitations, making them suitable for various therapeutic situations. Therapies that promote mitophagy or inhibit mitochondrial fission could be particularly effective in slowing disease progression, especially in the early stages. In contrast, those that enhance mitochondrial biogenesis and apply mitochondria-targeting antioxidants may offer great benefits during the middle stages of the disease by improving cellular antioxidant capacity and energy metabolism. Mitochondrial transplantation, while still experimental, holds great promise for restoring the function of damaged cells. Future research should focus on exploring the mechanisms and effects of these intervention strategies, particularly regarding their safety and efficacy in clinical settings. Additionally, the development of innovative mitochondria-targeting approaches, such as gene editing and nanotechnology, may provide new solutions for treating chronic neurodegenerative diseases. Implementing combined therapeutic strategies that integrate multiple intervention methods could also enhance treatment outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid40312429,
year = {2025},
author = {Ludolph, AC and Grandjean, H and Reviers, E and De Micheli, V and Bianchi, C and Cardosi, L and Russ, H and Silani, V},
title = {Author Correction: The preferences of people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis on riluzole treatment in Europe.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {15297},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-025-95009-7},
pmid = {40312429},
issn = {2045-2322},
}

@article {pmid40311013,
year = {2025},
author = {Xu, Z and Yi, W and Guan, L and Tang, J and Feng, D and Zou, Y},
title = {Deciphering the Inhibitory Mechanism of ALS-Associated N352S and S352p Variants against TDP-43 Aggregation and Its Destabilization Effect on TDP-43 Protofibrils.},
journal = {ACS chemical neuroscience},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acschemneuro.5c00045},
pmid = {40311013},
issn = {1948-7193},
abstract = {Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is closely related to ubiquitin-positive inclusions formed by transactive response deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) binding protein of 43 kDa (TDP-43). Previous experiments identified that the ALS-linked familial variant, N352S (asparagine substituted by serine), and subsequent phosphorylation of S352 (S352p) are associated with the aggregation of TDP-43. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are still not fully understood. By performing all-atom explicit-solvent replica exchange molecular dynamics (REMD) simulations with a total simulation time of 100.8 μs, we scrutinized the impact of the N352S mutation and its phosphorylation variant S352p on the conformational ensembles of the TDP-43342-366 dimer. Our simulation results show that both the N352S and S352p variants could promote the formation of unstructured conformation and impede the formation of β-structure and helix content, and the inhibitive effect of S352P is more obvious. Further analyses suggest that the H-bonding and hydrophobic interaction among TDP-43342-366 peptides, as well as the R361-E362 salt bridge, are attenuated by N352S and S352p variants. Additional MD simulations show that N352S and S352p variants reduce the structural stability of the hydrophobic region and lower the number of H-bonds and contacts of two hydrophobic clusters, thus possessing a destabilization effect on the TDP-43282-360 protofibrils. Our results unmask the molecular mechanism of the N352S mutation and its phosphorylation variant S352p toward the inhibition of TDP-43342-366 aggregation and prove the protofibril-destabilizing effects of these two variants, which may be helpful for designing drugs for the treatment of ALS.},
}

@article {pmid40309800,
year = {2025},
author = {Manai, AL and Caria, P and Noli, B and Contini, C and Manconi, B and Etzi, F and Cocco, C},
title = {VGF and Its Derived Peptides in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.},
journal = {Brain sciences},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/brainsci15040329},
pmid = {40309800},
issn = {2076-3425},
abstract = {Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by a progressive degeneration in the neurons of the frontal cortex, spinal cord, and brainstem, altering the correct release of neurotransmitters. The disease affects every muscle in the body and could cause death three to five years after symptoms first occur. There is currently no efficient treatment to stop the disease's progression. The lack of identification of potential therapeutic strategies is a consequence of the delayed diagnosis due to the absence of accurate ALS early biomarkers. Indeed, neurotransmitters altered in ALS are not measurable in body fluids at quantities that allow for testing, making their use as diagnostic tools a challenge. Contrarily, neuroproteins and neuropeptides are chemical messengers produced and released by neurons, and most of them have the potential to enter bodily fluids. To find out new possible ALS biomarkers, the research of neuropeptides and proteins is intensified using mass spectrometry and biochemical-based assays. Neuropeptides derived from the proVGF precursor protein act as signaling molecules within neurons. ProVGF and its derived peptides are expressed in the nervous and endocrine systems but are also widely distributed in body fluids such as blood, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid, making them viable options as disease biomarkers. To highlight the proVGF and its derived peptides' major roles as ALS diagnostic biomarkers, this review provides an overview of the VGF peptide alterations in spinal cord and body fluids and outlines the limitations of the reported investigations.},
}

@article {pmid40309514,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, V and Huang, Y},
title = {Oligonucleotide therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases.},
journal = {NeuroImmune pharmacology and therapeutics},
volume = {4},
number = {1},
pages = {1-11},
pmid = {40309514},
issn = {2750-6665},
abstract = {Recently there has been a surge in interest involving the application of oligonucleotides, including small interfering RNA (siRNA) and antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), for the treatment of chronic diseases that have few available therapeutic options. This emerging class of drugs primarily operates by selectively suppressing target genes through antisense and/or RNA interference mechanisms. While various commercial medications exist for delivering oligonucleotides to the hepatic tissue, achieving effective delivery to extra hepatic tissues remains a formidable challenge. Here, we review recent advances in oligonucleotide technologies, including nanoparticle delivery, local administration, and 2'-O-hexadecyl (C16)-conjugation that work to extend the applicability of siRNAs and ASOs to nerve tissues. We discuss critical factors pivotal for the successful clinical translations of these modified or engineered oligonucleotides in the context of treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.},
}

@article {pmid40304918,
year = {2025},
author = {Anjum, F and Alsharif, A and Bakhuraysah, M and Shafie, A and Hassan, MI and Mohammad, T},
title = {Discovering Novel Biomarkers and Potential Therapeutic Targets of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Through Integrated Machine Learning and Gene Expression Profiling.},
journal = {Journal of molecular neuroscience : MN},
volume = {75},
number = {2},
pages = {61},
pmid = {40304918},
issn = {1559-1166},
support = {KSRG-2024-446//King Salman Center for Disability Research/ ; KSRG-2024-446//King Salman Center for Disability Research/ ; KSRG-2024-446//King Salman Center for Disability Research/ ; KSRG-2024-446//King Salman Center for Disability Research/ ; },
mesh = {*Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/genetics/metabolism ; Humans ; *Machine Learning ; Receptors, Nicotinic/genetics/metabolism ; Gene Expression Profiling ; Biomarkers/metabolism ; Tumor Suppressor Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Transcriptome ; Membrane Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that has multiple factors that make its molecular pathogenesis difficult to understand and its diagnosis and treatment during the early stages difficult to determine. Discovering novel biomarkers in ALS for diagnostic and therapeutic potential has become important. Consequently, bioinformatics and machine learning algorithms are useful for identifying differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and potential biomarkers, as well as understanding the molecular mechanisms and intricacies of diseases such as ALS. To achieve the aim of the present study, six datasets obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) were utilized and analyzed using an integrative bioinformatics and machine learning approach. Log transformation was done during data preprocessing, RMA normalization was performed, and the batch effect was corrected. Differential expression analysis identified 206 DEGs that were significantly associated with different biological processes, including muscle function, energy metabolism, and mitochondrial membrane activity. Functional enrichment analysis highlighted pathways, including those related to prion disease, Parkinson's disease, and ATP synthesis via chemiosmotic coupling. We employed a multi-step machine learning framework incorporating random forest, LASSO regression, and SVM-RFE to identify robust biomarkers. This approach identified three key genes, CHRNA1, DLG5, and PLA2G4C, which could be explored as promising biomarkers for ALS after further validation. The internal validation, including principal component analysis (PCA) and ROC-AUC analysis, demonstrated strong diagnostic potential of these hub genes, achieving an AUC of 0.96. This work highlights the utility of bioinformatics and machine learning in identifying key genes as biomarkers for diagnostic and therapeutic potential in ALS.},
}

*Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/genetics/metabolism
Humans
*Machine Learning
Receptors, Nicotinic/genetics/metabolism
Gene Expression Profiling
Biomarkers/metabolism
Tumor Suppressor Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Transcriptome
Membrane Proteins/genetics/metabolism

@article {pmid40300682,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, Z and Xing, J},
title = {Role of sirtuins in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury: Mechanisms and therapeutic potential.},
journal = {International journal of biological macromolecules},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {143591},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.143591},
pmid = {40300682},
issn = {1879-0003},
abstract = {The high incidence and mortality rate of cardiac arrest (CA) establishes it as a critical clinical challenge in emergency medicine globally. Despite continuous advances in advanced life support (ALS) technology, the prognosis for patients experiencing cardiac arrest remains poor, with cerebral ischemia and reperfusion injury (CIRI) being a significant determinant of adverse neurological outcomes and increased mortality. Sirtuins (SIRTs) are a class of highly evolutionarily conserved NAD[+]-dependent histone deacylenzymes capable of regulating the expression of various cytoprotective genes to play a neuroprotective role in CIRI. SIRTs mainly regulate the levels of downstream proteins such as PGC 1-α, Nrf 2, NLRP 3, FoxOs, and PINK 1 to inhibit inflammatory response, attenuate oxidative stress, improve mitochondrial dysfunction, promote angiogenesis, and inhibit apoptosis while reducing CIRI. Natural active ingredients are widely used in regulating the protein level of SIRTs in the body because of their multi-components, multi-pathway, multi-target, and minimal toxic side effects. However, these naturally active ingredients still face many challenges related to drug targeting, pharmacokinetic properties, and drug delivery. The emergence and vigorous development of new drug delivery systems, such as nanoparticles, micromilk, and exosomes, provide strong support for solving the above problems. In the context of the rapid development of molecular biology technology, non-coding RNA (NcRNA), represented by miRNA and LncRNA, offers great potential for achieving gene-level precision medicine. In the context of multidisciplinary integration, combining SIRTs proteins with biotechnology, omics technologies, artificial intelligence, and material science will strongly promote the deepening of their basic research and expand their clinical application. This review describes the major signaling pathways of targeting SIRTs to mitigate CIRI, as well as the current research status of Chinese and Western medicine and medical means for the intervention level of SIRTs. Meanwhile, the challenges and possible solutions in the clinical application of targeted drugs are summarized. In the context of medical and industrial crossover, the development direction of SIRTs in the future is discussed to provide valuable reference for basic medical researchers and clinicians to improve the clinical diagnosis and treatment effects of CIRI.},
}

@article {pmid40299102,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, G and Huang, S and Wei, M and Wu, Y and Wang, J},
title = {Excitatory Amino Acid Transporters as Therapeutic Targets in the Treatment of Neurological Disorders: Their Roles and Therapeutic Prospects.},
journal = {Neurochemical research},
volume = {50},
number = {3},
pages = {155},
pmid = {40299102},
issn = {1573-6903},
support = {2023JJB140089//Guangxi Youth Science Foundation Project/ ; 82201694//the National Natural Scientific Foundation of China/ ; 2022AC21033//Guangxi Science and technology base and talent project/ ; 2022KY0349//Guangxi university young and middle-aged teachers' basic ability improvement project/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Nervous System Diseases/metabolism/drug therapy ; *Glutamate Plasma Membrane Transport Proteins/metabolism ; Glutamic Acid/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Excitatory amino acid transporters (EAATs) are pivotal regulators of glutamate homeostasis in the central nervous system and orchestrate synaptic glutamate clearance through transmembrane transport and the glutamine‒glutamate cycle. The five EAAT subtypes (GLAST/EAAT1, GLT-1/EAAT2, EAAC1/EAAT3, EAAT4, and EAAT5) exhibit spatiotemporal-specific expression patterns in neurons and glial cells, and their dysfunction is implicated in diverse neurological pathologies, including epilepsy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), schizophrenia, depression, and retinal degeneration. Mechanistic studies revealed that astrocytic GLT-1 deficiency disrupts glutamate clearance in ALS motor neurons, whereas GLAST genetic variants are linked to both epilepsy susceptibility and glaucomatous retinal ganglion cell degeneration. Three major challenges persist in ongoing research: ① subtype-specific regulatory mechanisms remain unclear; ② compensatory functions of transporters vary significantly across disease models; and ③ clinical translation lacks standardized evaluation criteria. The interaction mechanisms and dynamic roles of EAATs in neurological disorders were systematically investigated in this study, and an integrated approach combining single-cell profiling, stem cell-based disease modeling, and drug screening platforms was proposed. These findings lay the groundwork for novel therapeutic strategies targeting glutamate homeostasis.},
}

Humans
Animals
*Nervous System Diseases/metabolism/drug therapy
*Glutamate Plasma Membrane Transport Proteins/metabolism
Glutamic Acid/metabolism

@article {pmid40298821,
year = {2025},
author = {Bortolotti, M and Polito, L and Battelli, MG and Bolognesi, A},
title = {Xanthine Oxidoreductase: A Double-Edged Sword in Neurological Diseases.},
journal = {Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antiox14040483},
pmid = {40298821},
issn = {2076-3921},
abstract = {Non-communicable neurological disorders are the second leading cause of death, and their burden continues to increase as the world population grows and ages. Oxidative stress and inflammation are crucially implicated in the triggering and progression of multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease, and even stroke. In this narrative review, we examine the role of xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR) activities and products in all the above-cited neurological diseases. The redox imbalance responsible for oxidative stress could arise from excess reactive oxygen and nitrogen species resulting from the activities of XOR, as well as from the deficiency of its main product, uric acid (UA), which is the pivotal antioxidant system in the blood. In fact, with the exception of stroke, serum UA levels are inversely related to the onset and progression of these neurological disorders. The inverse correlation observed between the level of uricemia and the presence of neurological diseases suggests a neuroprotective role for UA. Oxidative stress and inflammation are also caused by ischemia and reperfusion, a condition in which XOR action has been recognized as a contributing factor to tissue damage. The findings reported in this review could be useful for addressing clinical decision-making and treatment optimization.},
}

@article {pmid40295933,
year = {2025},
author = {Yu, SF and Michon, M and Lingappa, AF and Paulvannan, K and Solas, D and Staats, K and Ichida, J and Dey, D and Rosenfeld, J and Lingappa, VR},
title = {An ALS assembly modulator signature in peripheral blood mononuclear cells: implications for ALS pathophysiology, therapeutics, and diagnostics.},
journal = {Clinical proteomics},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {16},
pmid = {40295933},
issn = {1542-6416},
support = {IL-2023-C4-L1//Target ALS/ ; W81XWH2210721//DOD CDMRP/ ; },
abstract = {Assembly modulators are a new class of allosteric site-targeted therapeutic small molecules, some of which are effective at restoring nuclear localization of TDP-43 in ALS cellular models, and which display efficacy in a variety of ALS animal models. These compounds have been shown to bind selectively to a small subset of protein disulfide isomerase (PDI), a protein implicated in ALS pathophysiology. The targeted subset of PDI is found within a novel, transient and energy-dependent multi-protein complex that includes other important members of the ALS interactome, such as TDP-43, RanGTPase, and selective autophagy receptor p62/SQSTM1. We demonstrate here that a similar multi-protein complex drug target is present in PBMCs as isolated by energy-dependent drug resin affinity chromatography (eDRAC) and characterized by mass spectrometry and by Western blot (WB). Signature alterations in the composition of the multi-protein complex in PBMCs from ALS patients compared to PBMCs from healthy individuals were identified by WB of eDRAC bound proteins, thereby extending earlier literature suggesting PBMC dysfunction in ALS. Changes in the PBMC drug target in ALS patients compared to healthy individuals include diminished p62/SQSTM1 and appearance of a 17 kDa post-translationally modified form of RanGTPase. These changes are not readily apparent from analysis of whole cell extracts, as the individual protein components within the drug target multi-protein complex comprise only small percentages of the total of those component proteins in the extract. Furthermore, whole blood from ALS patients shows a distinctive degradation of total RanGTPase not observed in blood from healthy individuals. This degradation appears to be rescued by treatment of whole blood from ALS patients for 72 h with ALS-active assembly modulator small molecules. Our findings are consistent with the hypothesis that ALS is fundamentally a disorder of homeostasis that can be detected early, prior to disability, in blood by the methods described, and restored to the healthy state by assembly modulator drug treatment.},
}

@article {pmid40295049,
year = {2025},
author = {Keul, J and Sperling, S and Rohde, V and Ninkovic, M},
title = {Advantages and Disadvantages of Drug Combination Treatment: Riluzole, Metformin and Dexamethasone Effect on Glioblastoma Cell.},
journal = {Anticancer research},
volume = {45},
number = {5},
pages = {1813-1823},
doi = {10.21873/anticanres.17561},
pmid = {40295049},
issn = {1791-7530},
abstract = {BACKGROUND/AIM: In glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), a deadly brain tumor, glucose is one of the main fuels for accelerated growth. Patients with GBM are also exposed to excess glucose through hyperglycemia in diabetes mellitus. In addition, dexamethasone (Dex), a corticosteroid commonly administered for controlling cerebral oedema, causes additional excess glucose. Therefore, targeting glucose metabolism is an attractive therapeutic intervention for GBM treatment. We have recently shown that riluzole (Ril), a drug used to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), has an effect on some detrimental Dex-induced metabolic changes in GBM. Therefore, we examined the effect of the combination of metformin (Met), widely used to treat type 2 diabetes, and Ril on GBM cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to determine cell viability of U87MG after treatment with Ril, Met, Ril plus Met (Ril+Met) and the addition of Dex to this co-treatment. Cell migration was assessed by the xCELLigence system, matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) activation by zymography assay and gene expression by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

RESULTS: Co-treatment with Ril and Met was effective in killing GBM cells and reducing the expression of genes involved in glucose and stem cell metabolism. Furthermore, combination of Ril and Met reduced MMP2 activation. But co-administration increased the migration of U87MG cells. The addition of Dex to this combination reversed the unfavorable effects of Ril+Met on cell migration.

CONCLUSION: Ril+Met co-treatment had a positive effect in terms of GBM cell death, decreased expression of genes involved in glucose metabolism and stemness, and reduced MMP2 activation. Disadvantage of Ril+Met treatment was increased cell migration. Taken together, these drug combinations may also allow the reduction of the concentration of Dex to minimize its side effects.},
}

@article {pmid40294721,
year = {2025},
author = {Natala, SR and Habas, A and Stocking, EM and Orry, A and Abagyan, R and Makale, MT and Wrasidlo, W},
title = {Structure based design, synthesis and identification of novel covalent reversible dual TLR2/TLR9 small molecule antagonists.},
journal = {Bioorganic & medicinal chemistry letters},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {130259},
doi = {10.1016/j.bmcl.2025.130259},
pmid = {40294721},
issn = {1464-3405},
abstract = {Inflammation is a key driver of the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases and cancer and can be caused by aggregated proteins, injured neurons or synapses, dysregulation of inflammatory control mechanisms, and other factors. Tolllike receptors (TLRs) are important mediators of inflammatory pathways, and their activation leads to pro-inflammatory cytokine release by immune cells in the periphery or in the central nervous system (CNS). TLR2 and TLR9 are implicated in the inflammatory pathogenesis of CNS degenerative diseases such as Parkinson's Disease (PD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). They are also held to be important in the etiology of certain malignancies like inflammatory pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and glioblastoma. Inactivation of TLR2/9 in animal models of neurodegeneration has reduced pathological markers and diminished neuronal loss, while in animal models of cancer it has suppressed tumors. Therefore, TLR2 and TLR9 may be potential targets for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders and cancers. We identified for the first time a key binding locus in TLR2/9 TIR domain which guided reversible covalent drug (RCD) design of a novel, first-in class series of dual TLR2/9 antagonists. Sub-micromolar antagonist concentrations potently inhibited TLR2 and TLR9 signaling induced by TLR2/9 specific agonists. Importantly, this series of antagonists did not discernably activate other TLRs and exhibited favorable in-vitro ADME and safety. The analogs described here may help realize effective TLR2/9 antagonism as a viable therapeutic strategy for inflammation driven CNS diseases and various malignancies with an inflammatory etiology.},
}