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| AL Amyloidosis is not considered hereditary; it is not secondary to other diseases and cannot be passed on to others through aerosols/touch/sex. There are however a few families that have increases incidence to blood diseases which would include myeloma and AL Amyloidosis amongst others. This is not considered a norm (Desport et al., 2012). | AL Amyloidosis is not considered hereditary; it is not secondary to other diseases and cannot be passed on to others through aerosols/touch/sex. There are however a few families that have increases incidence to blood diseases which would include myeloma and AL Amyloidosis amongst others. This is not considered a norm (Desport et al., 2012). | ||
| - | Finally, the causes of patient developing AL Amyloidosis are not known and there is no known correlation with a person’s diet, activity, or stress levels (“Amyloidosis”, 2017). However, some patients that have other diseases like, “multiple myeloma, Hodgkin's disease, certain tumors, and familial Mediterranean fever” do show a risk of having an association with amyloidosis (“Amyloidosis”, 2017). | + | Finally, the causes of patient developing AL Amyloidosis are not known and there is no known correlation with a person’s diet, activity, or stress levels (“Amyloidosis”, n.d.). However, some patients that have other diseases like, “multiple myeloma, Hodgkin's disease, certain tumors, and familial Mediterranean fever” do show a risk of having an association with amyloidosis (“Amyloidosis”, n.d.). |
| ====== Signs and Symptoms ====== | ====== Signs and Symptoms ====== | ||
| - | According to the Cedar-Sinai Cancer Institute (“Amyloidosis”, 2017) the signs and symptoms of a patient potentially afflicted with Amyloidosis are hard to identify. This is because the disease is so rare and that many of the symptoms overlap with the characteristics displayed by patients with other diseases. Similarly, because Amyloidosis can affect different organs of the body, this too affects what symptoms a patient may display. Further, it is possible that a patient might not display any symptoms whatsoever although they may have the disease. Thus, all these factors contribute to the complexity of diagnosing this disease solely through signs and symptoms (“Amyloidosis”, 2017). | + | According to the Cedar-Sinai Cancer Institute (“Amyloidosis”, n.d.) the signs and symptoms of a patient potentially afflicted with Amyloidosis are hard to identify. This is because the disease is so rare and that many of the symptoms overlap with the characteristics displayed by patients with other diseases. Similarly, because Amyloidosis can affect different organs of the body, this too affects what symptoms a patient may display. Further, it is possible that a patient might not display any symptoms whatsoever although they may have the disease. Thus, all these factors contribute to the complexity of diagnosing this disease solely through signs and symptoms (“Amyloidosis”, n.d.). |
| - | Nevertheless, there are some key symptoms, which are generally associated with the disease (“Amyloidosis”, 2017). These are: | + | Nevertheless, there are some key symptoms, which are generally associated with the disease (“Amyloidosis”, n.d.). These are: |
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| * Bowel obstruction | * Bowel obstruction | ||
| * Carpal tunnel syndrome | * Carpal tunnel syndrome | ||
| - | * Nervous system disrupted” (“Amyloidosis”, 2017). | + | * Nervous system disrupted” (“Amyloidosis”, n.d.). |
| - | It is also important to note that if the disease is affecting the heart or kidney, the symptoms displayed may be more severe and will pertain to the respective organ, which is being affected (“Amyloidosis”, 2017). Usually in these cases the disease is life threatening (“Amyloidosis”, 2017). | + | It is also important to note that if the disease is affecting the heart or kidney, the symptoms displayed may be more severe and will pertain to the respective organ, which is being affected (“Amyloidosis”, n.d.). Usually in these cases the disease is life threatening (“Amyloidosis”, n.d.). |
| ====== Prognosis ====== | ====== Prognosis ====== | ||
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| <box width border blue centre|http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMra023144>{{ :new_path.jpg?300 }}</box|Figure 5: Pathway for amyloid fibril formation.> | <box width border blue centre|http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMra023144>{{ :new_path.jpg?300 }}</box|Figure 5: Pathway for amyloid fibril formation.> | ||
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| The amyloid precursors form and are secreted as native proteins, however, they escape the intracellular quality control system where the mutant light chains are not recognized (Merlini & Bellotti, 2003). Once in the ECM, these light chains unfold and reach an equilibrium between fully folded and partially folded state (Merlini & Bellotti, 2003). Local factors such as low pH, oxidative stress, high temperature and limited proteolysis shift this equilibrium towards the partially folded state, forming the protofibrils (Merlini & Bellotti, 2003). The protofibrils then go onto forming amyloid fibrils and they also cause cellular toxicity by inducing apoptosis in target tissue cells (Merlini & Bellotti, 2003). | The amyloid precursors form and are secreted as native proteins, however, they escape the intracellular quality control system where the mutant light chains are not recognized (Merlini & Bellotti, 2003). Once in the ECM, these light chains unfold and reach an equilibrium between fully folded and partially folded state (Merlini & Bellotti, 2003). Local factors such as low pH, oxidative stress, high temperature and limited proteolysis shift this equilibrium towards the partially folded state, forming the protofibrils (Merlini & Bellotti, 2003). The protofibrils then go onto forming amyloid fibrils and they also cause cellular toxicity by inducing apoptosis in target tissue cells (Merlini & Bellotti, 2003). | ||
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| ==== Factors Influencing Fibrillogenesis ==== | ==== Factors Influencing Fibrillogenesis ==== | ||
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| ====== Prevention ====== | ====== Prevention ====== | ||
| - | In the case of Alzheimers, Transthyretin prevents amyloid formation (Schwarzman et al., 1994). Alzheimers is part of the same family as AL amyloidosis, with the family being systemic amyloidosis. Colchicine prevents amyloidosis of familial mediterranean fever (Zemer et al., 1986). This fever is also within the family of systemic amyloidosis like AL amyloidosis. Colchicine is a drug that is administered to the individual. | + | As far as discernable, the state of the current research suggests that no direct preventive measures exist for AL Amyloidosis. However, there are preventive measures for similar diseases in the same family. According to Ghiso and Frangione (2002), one such disease is Alzheimer’s, which is the most prevalent form of amyloidosis in humans. The mechanisms of the disease are similar to AL Amyloidosis in the sense that amyloid deposits form in the brain parenchyma of patients with Alzheimer’s disease (Ghiso & Frangione, 2002). |
| + | In the case of Alzheimer’s disease, the transport protein Transthyretin prevents amyloid formation (Schwarzman et al., 1994). Alzheimer’s disease is part of the same family as AL amyloidosis, with the family being systemic amyloidosis. Similarly, colchicine prevents amyloidosis of familial Mediterranean fever (Zemer et al., 1986). This fever is also within the family of systemic amyloidosis like AL amyloidosis. Colchicine is a drug that is administered to the individual to help combat the effects of the amyloid deposits. | ||
| ====== Treatment / Management ====== | ====== Treatment / Management ====== | ||
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| ==== Chemotherapy and Autologous Stem-Cell Transplantation: ==== | ==== Chemotherapy and Autologous Stem-Cell Transplantation: ==== | ||
| - | High-dose chemotherapy medicines (melphalan) with autologous stem cell transplantation is the current treatment for the patients who have AL Amyloidosis.(Derrer, T.D., 2015; NHS choices, 2017; Shiel, C.W., & Balentine, R. J., 2017) The reason is that AL Amyloidosis is a protein abnormally deposits in some tissues of our human body; therefore, it causes some organ dysfunction (i.e. heart, liver, kidney etc.) (Papadakis, M.A., & McPhee, S. H., 2017). By using this treatment, the aim is to reduce the light chain protein production (the substance that can form amyloid) and deposition which can cause AL Amyloidosis. On the other hand, this treatment can arrest progressive of the organ dysfunction (Papadakis, M.A., & McPhee, S. H., 2017). Using high doses of chemotherapy medicines (melphalan), we observed a high rate of remission (Child et al., 2003).Since this treatment comes with autologous stem cell transplantation, but not all the patients can accept it. For this point of view, people should consider the toxicity of autologous stem cell transplantation such as febrile neutropenia, mucositis, delirium and atrial dysrhythmias (Bernard et al., 2015). As a result, patients may have dialysis-dependent renal failure (Bernard et al., 2015). If people cannot use the treatment properly, they may use oral melphalan and dexamethasone (Derrer, T.D., 2015; NHS choices, 2017; Shiel, C.W., & Balentine, R. J., 2017). These two chemotherapy medicine can give good hematological and organ response(Mahmood et al, 2014). As to chemotherapy, physician usually use melphalan, cyclophosphamide, dexamethasone, lanalidomide and bortezomib (Papadakis, M.A., & McPhee, S. H., 2017). However, this treatment has the related mortality about 8% in patients with AL Amyloidosis, because they do not have the organ improvement after therapy. Moreover, some patients are being treated very well. The reason is that the treatment can facilitate amyloid dissolution and correct the amyloid protein folding. Therefore, the protein will fold in normal form (Papadakis, M.A., & McPhee, S. H., 2017). | + | High-dose chemotherapy medicines (such as melphalan) with autologous stem cell transplant is the current treatment for patients with AL Amyloidosis.(Derrer, T.D., 2015; NHS choices, 2017; Shiel, C.W., & Balentine, R. J., 2017) Since AL Amyloidosis is deposition of abnormal proteins in tissues and organs of the human body leading to organ dysfunction (i.e. heart, liver, kidney etc.) (Papadakis, M.A., & McPhee, S. H., 2017). By using this treatment, the aim is to reduce the light chain protein production (the substance that can form amyloid) and deposition which can cause AL Amyloidosis. On the other hand, this treatment can arrest further progression organ dysfunction (Papadakis, M.A., & McPhee, S. H., 2017). Using high doses of chemotherapy medicines like melphalan, a high rate of remission was observed (Child et al., 2003).This treatment is followed by autologous stem cell transplantation, however, some patients are unsuitable and cannot endure its toxicity leading to febrile neutropenia, mucositis, delirium and atrial dysrhythmias (Bernard et al., 2015). In the case of Renal failure, patients may require dialysis and diuretic medications to remove excess water from their body (Tidy, C., 2014; Derrer, T.D., 2015). If people cannot undergo the treatment properly, they may use oral melphalan and dexamethasone (Derrer, T.D., 2015; NHS choices, 2017; Shiel, C.W., & Balentine, R. J., 2017). These two chemotherapy medicines can give good hematological and organ response(Mahmood et al, 2014). In the case of chemotherapy, some commonly used medications are melphalan, cyclophosphamide, dexamethasone, lanalidomide and bortezomib (Papadakis, M.A., & McPhee, S. H., 2017). However, chemotherapy treatment has a related mortality rate of approximately 8% in patients with AL Amyloidosis, because their organs fail to recover even after therapy. However, since the treatment facilitates amyloid dissolution and corrects the amyloid protein folding, many patients have successful recovery (Papadakis, M.A., & McPhee, S. H., 2017). |
| ==== Anti-Inflammatory Medicines: ==== | ==== Anti-Inflammatory Medicines: ==== | ||
| - | As to the Secondary (AA) amyloidosis, it usually comes with some inflammation. Therefore, physicians normally treat it with chemotherapy and the anti-inflammatory medicines (Papadakis, M.A., & McPhee, S. H., 2017). For this kind of medicine, they are basically used steroids (Derrer, T.D., 2015; NHS choices, 2017) . Using steroids sometimes may have some bad reaction which is caused by the effect of the chemotherapy (NHS choices, 2017), so people should use it properly and monitor the reaction. On the other hand, secondary amyloidosis may occur with another illness including chronic infections (i.e. Tuberculosis and osteomyelitis) and chronic inflammatory diseases (i.e. Rheumatoid arthritis). For Rheumatoid arthritis, physicians usually treat it by using Chlorambucil (Derrer, T.D., 2015). | + | Secondary systemic amyloidosis (AA) usually presents itself with some inflammation. Therefore, physicians normally treat it with chemotherapy and anti-inflammatory medicines which are basically steroids (Derrer, T.D., 2015; NHS choices, 2017, Papadakis, M.A., & McPhee, S. H., 2017). Using steroids sometimes results in a bad reaction due to the side effects of chemotherapy (NHS choices, 2017), and so patients must be regularly monitored to prevent such reaction. On the other hand, secondary amyloidosis may co-exist with another illness such as a chronic infection (i.e. Tuberculosis and osteomyelitis) and chronic inflammatory disease (i.e. Rheumatoid arthritis). For Rheumatoid arthritis, physicians usually treat it by using Chlorambucil (Derrer, T.D., 2015). |
| ==== Organ Transplant: ==== | ==== Organ Transplant: ==== | ||
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| <box width classes blue centre|http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/liver-transplant/details/what-you-can-expect/rec-20211848>{{ ds00097_-ds00398_-ds00411_-ds00676_-my00349_im03635_d7_living_liver_transplantthu_jpg.jpg?300 }}</box|Figure 7: The Liver Transplant (Mayo, 2017).> | <box width classes blue centre|http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/liver-transplant/details/what-you-can-expect/rec-20211848>{{ ds00097_-ds00398_-ds00411_-ds00676_-my00349_im03635_d7_living_liver_transplantthu_jpg.jpg?300 }}</box|Figure 7: The Liver Transplant (Mayo, 2017).> | ||
| - | Liver transplant is also one of the treatment for AL Amyloidosis. Depends on the condition of this disease, some patients may have liver failure (Derrer, T.D., 2015). Therefore, liver transplant may become one of the best treatment. Also, some patients may have hereditary amyloidosis or ATTR (Derrer, T.D., 2015). For this disease, liver will produce mutated transthyretin which will form amyloids (Papadakis, M.A., & McPhee, S. H., 2017). In order to arrest this process, physicians will strongly suggest the patients to do liver transplant ( NHS choices, 2017). However, we need to consider the rejection of our human body. | + | Liver transplant is also one of the treatment options in case of liver failure from AL Amyloidosis (Derrer, T.D., 2015). Also, some patients may have hereditary amyloidosis or ATTR (Derrer, T.D., 2015). In this disease, the liver produces mutated transthyretin which forms amyloid deposits (Papadakis, M.A., & McPhee, S. H., 2017). In order to arrest this process, physicians will strongly suggest the patients do a liver transplant ( NHS choices, 2017). However, they need to also consider the rejection by the human body. |
| - | Like the information provided above, depends on the condition of amyloidosis, the amyloid protein may affect some vital organs such as kidney and heart. If the vital organs get infection, organ transplant may become a reasonable treatment (i.e. kidney or heart transplant) (Derrer, T.D., 2015; NHS choices, 2017). | + | From the information provided above, it can be deduced that depending on the condition of amyloidosis, the amyloid protein may affect some vital organs such as kidney and heart. If the vital organs get an infection, an organ transplant will become a reasonable treatment option (i.e. kidney or heart transplant) (Derrer, T.D., 2015; NHS choices, 2017). |
| ==== Colchicine: ==== | ==== Colchicine: ==== | ||
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| ==== Other Treatments: ==== | ==== Other Treatments: ==== | ||
| - | Amyloidosis can happen in different conditions. It may affect different vital organs. If the disease affects the kidney and cause kidney problem, people may use diuretic medicines in order to remove excess water from the body (Tidy, C., 2014; Derrer, T.D., 2015). Secondly, people may have swelling of the tongue, therefore, they can add some thickeners to the fluids in order to prevent choking (Derrer, T.D., 2015). Thirdly, people may have swelling in their legs and feet, then they may use compression stockings. It can helop them to relieve swelling (Derrer, T.D., 2015). Last but not least, if people have gastrointestinal amyloidosis, they can modify their diet in order to prevent the disease progressive (Derrer, T.D., 2015). | + | Amyloidosis can occur under different conditions, affecting different vital organs. People may have swelling of the tongue, therefore, they can add some thickeners to the fluids in order to prevent choking (Derrer, T.D., 2015). They may also have swelling in their legs and feet and so they may use compression stockings which help relieve swelling (Derrer, T.D., 2015). Lastly, f people have gastrointestinal amyloidosis, they can modify their diet in order to prevent the disease progression (Derrer, T.D., 2015). |
| ====== Social Implications ====== | ====== Social Implications ====== | ||
| - | AL Amyloidosis or Amyloidosis in general is a disease not known by the majority of society. Among those who do there are often a lot of misconceptions and wrongful information. A lot is being done by corporations/foundations in order to spread correct information about the disease to the general public in order to create awareness. The Amyloidosis Foundation is one such foundation looking to create awareness, collect donation for patients and invest in research that will go a long in helping those affected by the disease. | + | AL Amyloidosis or Amyloidosis in general is a disease not very known by the majority of society. Among those who do know of the disease, there are often a lot of misconceptions or incorrect understanding of the scientific information. However, a lot is being done by corporations and foundations in order to spread correct information about the disease to the general public in order to create awareness. |
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| + | The Amyloidosis Foundation is one such foundation. According to their website, they were created by the merging of the Amyloidosis Research Foundation and the Amyloidosis Support Network in 2007 ("Us - Amyloidosis Foundation", n.d.). Some of the goals of the foundation is that they are looking to create awareness, collect donation for patients, and invest in research that will go a long way in helping those affected by the disease. As can be seen on the website, they also have many inspirational stories of former patients who have gone through having the AL Amyloidosis disease ("Us - Amyloidosis Foundation", n.d.). This is a fantastic resource for patients that have recently discovered they have AL Amyloidosis as they may feel they are all alone. However, on the contrary, this is not the case and in fact through reading the stories on the website, they can see there are many other people in the same situation as them. Thus, the foundation's stories of other patients acts as a sort of moral encouragement for new patients. Finally, the foundation also provides updates on the latest news regarding AL Amyloidosis research, among other things. This too acts as a great resource for patients as not all of them will have the technical knowledge to read the actual scientific research articles. Instead, they can read an adapted and summarized version presented on the foundation's news website. This still allows them to feel in the know about the current state of research into discovering a cure for this devastating disease. Overall, the foundation acts as a bridge to connect patients with resources to help them better overcome their disease and to live a happier, fuller life. | ||
| ====== Further Research / Applications ====== | ====== Further Research / Applications ====== | ||
| - | There is still a lot of research that needs to be done on AL Amyloidosis in order successfully diagnose and treat everyone who happens to obtain the disease with a high rate of success. The research being conducted spans a variety of platforms such as alternate treatments, enhancements to current treatments, earlier diagnosis methods and prevention methods. Of all such platforms the focus is on discovering tools in which to diagnose patients earlier even before the appearance of symptoms in order to apply treatment earlier which helps increase success and survivor-ship. | + | There is still a lot of research that needs to be done on AL Amyloidosis in order to successfully diagnose and treat everyone who gets diagnosed. The research being conducted spans a variety of platforms such as alternate treatments, enhancements to current treatments, earlier diagnosis methods and prevention methods. The focus is on discovering tools through which diagnosis can be made earlier, even before the appearance of symptoms, in order to provide treatment earlier and to help increase success and survivor-ship. |
| ==== Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate (EGCG): ==== | ==== Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate (EGCG): ==== | ||
| - | Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate (EGCG) is being looked at as a potential treatment for AL Amyloidosis. EGCC is the most abundant catechin in tea. EGCC is studied greatly today for its potential effects on human health and diseases. It is used in many dietary supplements. It is found in high concentrations in the dried leaves of green tea, white tea and black tea (Andrich et al., 2016). Trace amounts are found in foods such as apple skins, plums, onions and pecans (Andrich et al., 2016). EGCC is currently the subject of pre-clinical studies involving autoimmune diseases, inflammation and rheumatoid arthritis (Andrich et al., 2016). Recently, EGCC is being looked at as a secondary treatment for AL Amyloidosis. Research so far has suggested that EGCG specifically inhibits the second aggregation phase causing the formation of more stable non-amyloid light chain aggregates (Andrich et al., 2016). Scientists are most intrigued by the fact that EGCG intervention does not depend on the individual sequences of the light chains and thus can potentially be universally used as a treatment (Andrich et al., 2016). Further research is required in order to determine if EGCG would work at larger quantities and if it sustain inhibition for a prolonged period of time. | + | Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate (EGCG) is being looked at as a potential treatment for AL Amyloidosis. EGCC is the most abundant catechin in tea. EGCC is studied greatly today for its potential effects on human health and diseases. It is used in many dietary supplements. It is found in high concentrations in the dried leaves of green tea, white tea and black tea (Andrich et al., 2016). Trace amounts are found in foods such as apple skins, plums, onions and pecans (Andrich et al., 2016). EGCC is currently the subject of pre-clinical studies involving autoimmune diseases, inflammation and rheumatoid arthritis (Andrich et al., 2016). Recently, EGCC is being looked at as a secondary treatment for AL Amyloidosis. Research so far has suggested that EGCG specifically inhibits the second aggregation phase causing the formation of more stable non-amyloid light chain aggregates (Andrich et al., 2016). Scientists are most intrigued by the fact that EGCG intervention does not depend on the individual sequences of the light chains and thus can potentially be universally used as a treatment (Andrich et al., 2016). Further research is required in order to determine if EGCG would work at larger quantities and if it sustains inhibition for a prolonged period of time. |
| <box width classes blue centre|http://toptestosteronesupplements.com/epigallocatechin-gallate-egcg-ingredient-breakdown/>{{ epigallocatechin-gallate-egcg-2_top-testosterone-supplement.jpg?nolink&200 }}</box|Figure 8: Molecular structure of EGCG. EGCG found commonly in a variety of dried tea leaves. Looked at as a potential treatment for AL Amyloidosis.> | <box width classes blue centre|http://toptestosteronesupplements.com/epigallocatechin-gallate-egcg-ingredient-breakdown/>{{ epigallocatechin-gallate-egcg-2_top-testosterone-supplement.jpg?nolink&200 }}</box|Figure 8: Molecular structure of EGCG. EGCG found commonly in a variety of dried tea leaves. Looked at as a potential treatment for AL Amyloidosis.> | ||
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| ==== Monoclonal Antibodies - NEOD001: ==== | ==== Monoclonal Antibodies - NEOD001: ==== | ||
| - | The most cutting edge approach to AL Amyloidosis is the use of monoclonal antibodies which would clear the amyloid from the affected organs. Recent studies looking at NEOD001 have been very promising. NEOD001 is a monoclonal antibody that specifically targets the aggregated amyloid that accumulates in AL patients which would be eliminated (Gertz et al., 2016). In one study 69 patients were administrated NEOD001 post chemotherapy (Gertz et al., 2016). Response rate was 53% in cardiac patients and 64% among renal patients with little to no adverse side-effects (Gertz et al., 2016). NEOD001 also demonstrated improved neuro-pathy (Gertz et al., 2016). There are high hopes for this treatment and is currently in phase 2 of pre-clinical trials with phases 3 study planned. | + | The most cutting-edge approach to AL Amyloidosis is the use of monoclonal antibodies which would clear the amyloid from the affected organs. Recent studies looking at NEOD001 have been very promising. NEOD001 is a monoclonal antibody that specifically targets and eliminates the aggregated amyloid that accumulates in AL patients(Gertz et al., 2016). In one study, 69 patients were administrated NEOD001 post-chemotherapy (Gertz et al., 2016). Response rate was 53% in cardiac patients and 64% among renal patients with little to no adverse side-effects (Gertz et al., 2016). NEOD001 also demonstrated improved neuropathy (Gertz et al., 2016). There are high hopes for this treatment and it is currently in phase two of pre-clinical trials with phases 3 study planned. |
| ==== Genetically Engineered Cells: ==== | ==== Genetically Engineered Cells: ==== | ||
| - | Pre-Clinical testing is un-going on a potential treatment for AL Amyloidosis where a patient’s own immune system is genetically engineered to recognize and kill abnormal blood cells when reintroduced into the body (Rosenzweig, M., 2017). The goal of the research currently is to evaluate blood cells of patients with AL Amyloidosis and to find a specific protein that could be targeted (Rosenzweig, M., 2017). This protein must be unique to infected blood cells of AL Amyloidosis patients. Once this key step is completed in laboratory testing of genetically engineered cells be able to occur. | + | Pre-Clinical testing is on-going on a potential treatment for AL Amyloidosis where a patient’s own immune system is genetically engineered to recognize and kill abnormal blood cells when reintroduced into the body (Rosenzweig, M., 2017). The current goal of the research is to evaluate blood cells of patients with AL Amyloidosis and to find a specific protein that could be targeted (Rosenzweig, M., 2017). This protein must be unique to the infected blood cells of AL Amyloidosis patients. Once this key step is completed, in-laboratory testing of genetically engineered cells will occur. |
| ==== Study of Gene Expression Changes/Mutations: ==== | ==== Study of Gene Expression Changes/Mutations: ==== | ||
| - | To date, mutations/proteins involved in AL Amyloidosis are poorly understood and the lack of knowledge is holding back scientists from studying a broader range of treatments as well as being able to diagnose patients much earlier in life. A large portion of scientific research on AL Amyloidosis is spent on understanding and locating varies proteins, mutations and gene expressions that play a role in the diseases rise (Zhou et al., 2012). Identifying and understanding such aspects not only helps with further treatment development but also helps diagnosis patients early in the disease stage or ideally before symptoms even take place. A large-scale characterization of the mutations and gene expression changes that occur when developing AL Amyloidosis is currently occurring (Zhou et al., 2012). | + | To date, mutations/proteins involved in AL Amyloidosis are poorly understood and the lack of knowledge is holding back scientists from studying a broader range of treatments as well as being able to diagnose patients much earlier in life. A large portion of scientific research on AL Amyloidosis is spent on understanding and locating varies proteins, mutations and gene expressions that play a role in the development of this disease (Zhou et al., 2012). Identifying and understanding such aspects not only helps with further treatment development but also helps diagnosis patients early in the disease stage or ideally before symptoms even occur. A large-scale characterization of the mutations and gene expression changes that occur when developing AL Amyloidosis is currently occurring (Zhou et al., 2012). |
| ==== Clear Amyloid Protein Deposits (Immunotherapy / Physical): ==== | ==== Clear Amyloid Protein Deposits (Immunotherapy / Physical): ==== | ||
| - | Clearing Amyloid protein deposits directly was seen as impossible but recent research has now proves this misconception incorrect. It has been discovered that some immune cells known as Scavenger Cells have the capabilities of engulfing and breaking apart Amyloid deposits (Rosenzweig et al., 2017). However, the production and effectiveness of such cells are not at the levels required to clear large deposits of amyloids (Rosenzweig et al., 2017). New immunotherapy treatments are trying to accelerate the productiona nd functionality of such immune cells in order to be able to clear larger deposits as well as clear them quicker (Rosenzweig et al., 2017). 3 of such immuno-therapies are currently in stage 3 of clinical trails. There is a lot of hope in this form of treatment due to it being both efficient and safe (Rosenzweig et al., 2017). | + | Clearing Amyloid protein deposits directly was previously seen as impossible but recent research has now proved this misconception incorrect. It has been discovered that immune cells known as Scavenger Cells, have the capabilities of engulfing and breaking apart Amyloid deposits (Rosenzweig et al., 2017). However, the production and effectiveness of such cells are not at the levels required to clear large deposits of amyloids (Rosenzweig et al., 2017). New immunotherapy treatments are trying to accelerate the production and functionality of such immune cells in order to be able to clear larger deposits as well as clear them quickly (Rosenzweig et al., 2017). Three of such immuno-therapies are currently in stage 3 of clinical trials. There is a lot of hope in this form of treatment due to it being both efficient, effective and safe (Rosenzweig et al., 2017). |
| - | Basic research has also begun on constructing machinery that can physically be inserted into the body, target amyloid deposits, break the amyloid deposits into smaller piece and finally remove all traces of the amyloid deposits (Rosenzweig et al., 2017). Constructing such machinery while ensuring the patients safety is not an easy task. Research into such machinery has only recently begun and is a ways away from being a realistic treatment method for AL Amyloidosis. | + | Basic research has also begun on constructing machinery that can physically be inserted into the body, target amyloid deposits, break the amyloid deposits into smaller piece and finally remove all traces of the amyloid deposits (Rosenzweig et al., 2017). Constructing such machinery while ensuring the patient's safety is not an easy task. Research into such machinery has only recently begun and is far away from being a realistic treatment method for AL Amyloidosis. |
| ==== Proteasome Inhibitors: ==== | ==== Proteasome Inhibitors: ==== | ||
| - | There are currently 2 drugs in clinical trails that specifically target proteasomes required in the formation of the amyloid aggregates (Sanchorawala et al., 2017). Inhibition of such prevents such proteasomes from doing their role of degrading specific proteins (Sanchorawala et al., 2017). The proteins they normally degrade are proteins that stop the aggregation and formation of amyloid fibrils. Thus the 2 drugs would keep the preventive proteins in tact and amyloid fibrils would be prevented from every forming (Sanchorawala et al., 2017). The two drugs carfilzomib and ixazomib are very close to market release. | + | There are currently 2 drugs in clinical trials that specifically target proteasomes required in the formation of the amyloid aggregates (Sanchorawala et al., 2017). Inhibition of such prevents such proteasomes from doing their role of degrading specific proteins (Sanchorawala et al., 2017). The proteins they normally degrade are proteins that stop the aggregation and formation of amyloid fibrils. Thus the 2 drugs would keep the preventive proteins intact and amyloid fibrils would be prevented from every forming (Sanchorawala et al., 2017). The two drugs carfilzomib and ixazomib are very close to market release. |
| ==== Other: ==== | ==== Other: ==== | ||
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| 2. **Targeting of SAP Protein:** Potential new drug treatments are targeting the SAP protein which is a very specific protein structure found exclusively on Amyloid deposits and no other human cells/structures. Targeting such a protein will prevent any harm being done on normal healthy cells (Wechaleka et al., 2016). | 2. **Targeting of SAP Protein:** Potential new drug treatments are targeting the SAP protein which is a very specific protein structure found exclusively on Amyloid deposits and no other human cells/structures. Targeting such a protein will prevent any harm being done on normal healthy cells (Wechaleka et al., 2016). | ||
| - | 3. **Vaccines:** The formation of a new vaccine is being studies that when administrated would protect vital organs such as the heart from Amyloid Formation. The basic idea is that such antibodies would coat and organs and prevent amyloid fibrils from attaching and growing (Sanchorawala et al., 2017). | + | 3. **Vaccines:** The formation of a new vaccine is being studied that when administrated would protect vital organs such as the heart from Amyloid Formation. The basic idea is that such antibodies would coat and organs and prevent amyloid fibrils from attaching and growing (Sanchorawala et al., 2017). |
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| ====== References ====== | ====== References ====== | ||
| - | - Amyloidosis. (2017). Cedars-sinai.edu. Retrieved 4 October 2017, from https://www.cedars-sinai.edu/Patients/Health-Conditions/Amyloidosis.aspx | + | - Amyloidosis. (n.d.). Cedars-sinai.edu. Retrieved 4 October 2017, from https://www.cedars-sinai.edu/Patients/Health-Conditions/Amyloidosis.aspx |
| - Amyloidosis Foundation. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.amyloidosis.org/ | - Amyloidosis Foundation. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.amyloidosis.org/ | ||
| - Andrich, K., Hegenbart, U., Kimmich, C., Kedia, N., Bergen III, C.R., Schonland, S., Wanker, E.E., & Bieschke, J. (2016). Aggregation of full length immunoglobulin light chains from AL Amyloidosis patients is remodeled by epigallocatechin-3-gallate. //Journal of Biological Chemistry//, 292, 2328-2344. https://doi.org/10.1074/jbc.M116.750323 | - Andrich, K., Hegenbart, U., Kimmich, C., Kedia, N., Bergen III, C.R., Schonland, S., Wanker, E.E., & Bieschke, J. (2016). Aggregation of full length immunoglobulin light chains from AL Amyloidosis patients is remodeled by epigallocatechin-3-gallate. //Journal of Biological Chemistry//, 292, 2328-2344. https://doi.org/10.1074/jbc.M116.750323 | ||
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| - Gandelman, G. (2012). Cardiac Amyloidosis. The New York Times. Retrieved from: http://www.nytimes.com/health/guides/disease/cardiac-amyloidosis/overview.html?mcubz=0 | - Gandelman, G. (2012). Cardiac Amyloidosis. The New York Times. Retrieved from: http://www.nytimes.com/health/guides/disease/cardiac-amyloidosis/overview.html?mcubz=0 | ||
| - Gertz, M.A., Landau, H., Comenzo, R.L., Seldin, D., Weiss, B., & Zonder, J. (2016). First-in-Human Phase I/II Study of NEOD001 in patients with light chain amyloidosis and persistent organ dysfunction. //Journal of Clinical Oncology//, 34, 1097-1103. https://doi.org/10.1200/JCO.2015.63.6530 | - Gertz, M.A., Landau, H., Comenzo, R.L., Seldin, D., Weiss, B., & Zonder, J. (2016). First-in-Human Phase I/II Study of NEOD001 in patients with light chain amyloidosis and persistent organ dysfunction. //Journal of Clinical Oncology//, 34, 1097-1103. https://doi.org/10.1200/JCO.2015.63.6530 | ||
| + | - Ghiso, J., & Frangione, B. (2002). Amyloidosis and Alzheimer’s disease. Advanced drug delivery reviews, 54(12), 1539-1551. | ||
| - Jantunen, E., Kuittinen, T., Penttilä, K., Lehtonen, P., Mahlamäki, E., & Nousiainen, T. (2006). High-dose melphalan (200 mg/m2) supported by autologous stem cell transplantation is safe and effective in elderly (greater than or equal to65 years) myeloma patients: comparison with younger patients treated on the same protocol. //Bone Marrow Transplantation//, 37, 917-922. https://doi.org/doi:10.1038/sj.bmt.1705360 | - Jantunen, E., Kuittinen, T., Penttilä, K., Lehtonen, P., Mahlamäki, E., & Nousiainen, T. (2006). High-dose melphalan (200 mg/m2) supported by autologous stem cell transplantation is safe and effective in elderly (greater than or equal to65 years) myeloma patients: comparison with younger patients treated on the same protocol. //Bone Marrow Transplantation//, 37, 917-922. https://doi.org/doi:10.1038/sj.bmt.1705360 | ||
| - Kyle, R. (2001). Amyloidosis: a convoluted story. British Journal Of Haematology, 114(3), 529-538. http://dx.doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-2141.2001.02999.x | - Kyle, R. (2001). Amyloidosis: a convoluted story. British Journal Of Haematology, 114(3), 529-538. http://dx.doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-2141.2001.02999.x | ||
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| - Tennent, G. A., Lovat, L. B., & Pepys, M. B. (1995). Serum amyloid P component prevents proteolysis of the amyloid fibrils of Alzheimer disease and systemic amyloidosis. //Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America//, 92(10), 4299–4303. Received from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC41931/pdf/pnas01486-0235.pdf | - Tennent, G. A., Lovat, L. B., & Pepys, M. B. (1995). Serum amyloid P component prevents proteolysis of the amyloid fibrils of Alzheimer disease and systemic amyloidosis. //Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America//, 92(10), 4299–4303. Received from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC41931/pdf/pnas01486-0235.pdf | ||
| - Tidy, C. (2014). Amyloidosis. Patient. Retrieved from: https://patient.info/doctor/amyloidosis-pro | - Tidy, C. (2014). Amyloidosis. Patient. Retrieved from: https://patient.info/doctor/amyloidosis-pro | ||
| + | - Us - Amyloidosis Foundation. Amyloidosis Foundation. Retrieved 7 October 2017, from http://www.amyloidosis.org/us/#our-history | ||
| - Wallick, S. C., Kabat, E. A., & Morrison, S. L. (1988). Glycosylation of a VH residue of a monoclonal antibody against alpha (1-6) dextran increases its affinity for antigen. //The Journal of Experimental Medicine//, 168(3), 1099–1109. . https://doi.org/10.1084/jem.168.3.1099 | - Wallick, S. C., Kabat, E. A., & Morrison, S. L. (1988). Glycosylation of a VH residue of a monoclonal antibody against alpha (1-6) dextran increases its affinity for antigen. //The Journal of Experimental Medicine//, 168(3), 1099–1109. . https://doi.org/10.1084/jem.168.3.1099 | ||
| - Warsame, R., Kumar, S. K., Gertz, M. A., Lacy, M. Q., Buadi, F. K., Hayman, S. R., … Dispenzieri, A. (2015). Abnormal FISH in patients with immunoglobulin light chain amyloidosis is a risk factor for cardiac involvement and for death. //Blood Cancer Journa//l, 5, 310. https://doi.org/10.1038/bcj.2015.34 | - Warsame, R., Kumar, S. K., Gertz, M. A., Lacy, M. Q., Buadi, F. K., Hayman, S. R., … Dispenzieri, A. (2015). Abnormal FISH in patients with immunoglobulin light chain amyloidosis is a risk factor for cardiac involvement and for death. //Blood Cancer Journa//l, 5, 310. https://doi.org/10.1038/bcj.2015.34 | ||
