Pharmacological Research (Jun 2022)

Mitochondrial stroke-like episodes: The search for new therapies

  • Daniele Orsucci,
  • Elena Caldarazzo Ienco,
  • Vincenzo Montano,
  • Gabriele Siciliano,
  • Michelangelo Mancuso

Journal volume & issue
Vol. 180
p. 106228

Abstract

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A mitochondrial stroke-like event is an evolving subacute neurological syndrome linked to seizure activity and focal metabolic brain derangement in a genetically determined mitochondrial disorder. The acronym “MELAS” (mitochondrial encephalopathy associated with lactic acidosis and stroke-like lesions) identifies subjects with molecular, biochemical and/or histological evidence of mitochondrial disorder who experience stroke-like lesions. MELAS is a rare inherited mitochondrial disease linked to severe multiorgan involvement and stress-induced episodes of metabolic decompensation and lactic acidosis. Unfortunately, there are no etiopathogenetic therapies for stroke-like episodes to date, and the treatment is mainly based on anti-epileptic drugs and supportive therapies. This perspective opinion article discusses the current care standards for MELAS patients and revises current and innovative emerging therapies for mitochondrial stroke-like episodes.

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