Neurofilament-light and contactin-1 association with long-term brain atrophy in natalizumab-treated relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Despite highly effective treatment strategies for patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), long-term neurodegeneration and disease progression are often considerable. Accurate blood-based biomarkers that predict long-term neurodegeneration are lacking.

Objective

To assess the predictive value of serum neurofilament-light (sNfL) and serum contactin-1 (sCNTN1) for long-term magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-derived neurodegeneration in natalizumab-treated patients with RRMS.

Methods

sNfL and sCNTN1 were measured in an observational cohort of natalizumab-treated patients with RRMS at baseline (first dose) and at 3 months, Year 1, Year 2, and last follow-up (median = 5.2 years) of treatment. Disability progression was quantified using "EDSS-plus" criteria. Neurodegeneration was measured by calculating annualized percentage brain, ventricular, and thalamic volume change (PBVC, VVC, and TVC, respectively). Linear regression analysis was performed to identify longitudinal predictors of neurodegeneration.

Results

In total, 88 patients (age = 37 ± 9 years, 75% female) were included, of whom 48% progressed. Year 1 sNfL level (not baseline or 3 months) was associated with PBVC (standardized (std.) β = -0.26, p = 0.013), VVC (standardized β = 0.36, p < 0.001), and TVC (standardized β = -0.24, p = 0.02). For sCNTN1, only 3-month level was associated with VVC (standardized β = -0.31, p = 0.002).

Conclusion

Year 1 (but not baseline) sNfL level was predictive for long-term brain atrophy in patients treated with natalizumab. sCNTN1 level did not show a clear predictive value.

SUBMITTER: van Lierop ZY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9679802 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature