scholarly journals Magnetic resonance imaging in multiple sclerosis animal models: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and white paper

2020 ◽  
Vol 28 ◽  
pp. 102371
Author(s):  
Benjamin V. Ineichen ◽  
Pascal Sati ◽  
Tobias Granberg ◽  
Martina Absinta ◽  
Nathanael J. Lee ◽  
...  
2020 ◽  
Vol 267 (11) ◽  
pp. 3199-3212 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tobias Granberg ◽  
Thomas Moridi ◽  
Judith S. Brand ◽  
Susanne Neumann ◽  
Martin Hlavica ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Perivascular spaces can become detectable on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) upon enlargement, referred to as enlarged perivascular spaces (EPVS) or Virchow-Robin spaces. EPVS have been linked to small vessel disease. Some studies have also indicated an association of EPVS to neuroinflammation and/or neurodegeneration. However, there is conflicting evidence with regards to their potential as a clinically relevant imaging biomarker in multiple sclerosis (MS). Methods To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of EPVS as visualized by MRI in MS. Nine out of 299 original studies addressing EPVS in humans using MRI were eligible for the systematic review and meta-analysis including a total of 457 MS patients and 352 control subjects. Results In MS, EPVS have been associated with cognitive decline, contrast-enhancing MRI lesions, and brain atrophy. Yet, these associations were not consistent between studies. The meta-analysis revealed that MS patients have greater EPVS prevalence (odds ratio = 4.61, 95% CI = [1.84; 11.60], p = 0.001) as well as higher EPVS counts (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.46, 95% CI = [0.26; 0.67], p < 0.001) and larger volumes (SMD = 0.88, 95% CI = [0.19; 1.56], p = 0.01) compared to controls. Conclusions Available literature suggests a higher EPVS burden in MS patients compared to controls. The association of EPVS to neuroinflammatory or -degenerative pathology in MS remains inconsistent. Thus, there is currently insufficient evidence supporting EPVS as diagnostic and/or prognostic marker in MS. In order to benefit future comparisons of studies, we propose recommendations on EPVS assessment standardization in MS. PROSPERO No: CRD42019133946.


2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Amir Valizadeh ◽  
Elham Barati ◽  
Mohammad Ali Sahraian ◽  
Mohammad Reza Fattahi ◽  
Mana Moassefi

Abstract Rationale: As the role of neurodegeneration in the pathophysiology of multiple sclerosis (MS) has become more prominent, the formation and evolution of chronic or persistent T1-hypointense lesions (Black Holes) have been used as markers of axonal loss and neuronal destruction to measure disease activity. However, findings regarding this subject are controversial. In this study we aim to clarify the level of importance of T1 hypointense lesions for estimating the prognosis of patients.Objectives: To evaluate the correlation between T1 hypointensities (Black holes) lesion load (lesion mean volume) on brain MRI with disability level of patients with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS) or Secondary-Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS).Data sources: We will search MEDLINE (through PubMed), Embase, CENTRAL, Science Citation Index – Expanded (Web of Science), and Conference Proceedings Citation Index – Science (Web of Science). We won’t consider any timeframe, language, or geographical restrictions.Methods: Standard systematic review protocol methodology is employed. Eligibility criteria is reported in line with PICOTS system. Population is limited to adult patients diagnosed with RRMS or SPMS, based on the McDonald criteria. Index (prognostic factor) of interest will be T1 hypointense (black hole) lesion mean volume (lesion load) on brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). There will be no comparators. Outcome of interest will be the disability measure using Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). For the timing domain, we will include studies only if the outcome was measured at the same time MRI was performed (or with a very close time interval between). Inpatient and outpatient settings will both be included. All included studies will be assessed for the risk of bias using a tailored version of the Quality In Prognosis Studies (QUIPS) tool. Extracted correlation coefficients will be converted to the Fisher’s z scale and a meta-analysis will be performed on the results. We will then convert back the results to correlation coefficients again for the sake of presentation. For the purpose of assessing heterogeneity we will use prediction intervals. If feasible, we will also try to perform subgroup and sensitivity analyses. We will also evaluate the publication bias using Funnel plots and assess the confidence in cumulative evidence using an adapted version of the GRADE for prognostic factor research.


2013 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
pp. 3-11 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nabeela Nathoo ◽  
V Wee Yong ◽  
Jeff F Dunn

Major advances are taking place in the development of therapeutics for multiple sclerosis (MS), with a move past traditional immunomodulatory/immunosuppressive therapies toward medications aimed at promoting remyelination or neuroprotection. With an increase in diversity of MS therapies comes the need to assess the effectiveness of such therapies. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is one of the main tools used to evaluate the effectiveness of MS therapeutics in clinical trials. As all new therapeutics for MS are tested in animal models first, it is logical that MRI be incorporated into preclinical studies assessing therapeutics. Here, we review key papers showing how MR imaging has been combined with a range of animal models to evaluate potential therapeutics for MS. We also advise on how to maximize the potential for incorporating MRI into preclinical studies evaluating possible therapeutics for MS, which should improve the likelihood of discovering new medications for the condition.


Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document