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Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia 37

Disease Details

Family Health Simplified

Description
Hereditary spastic paraplegia 37 (SPG37) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by progressive weakness and spasticity of the lower limbs due to the degeneration of motor neurons.
Type
Hereditary spastic paraplegia type 37 (SPG37) is a type of neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive weakness and spasticity of the lower limbs. The genetic transmission of SPG37 is autosomal recessive.
Signs And Symptoms
Hereditary spastic paraplegia 37 (HSP37) is a genetic disorder characterized primarily by progressive weakness and spasticity (stiff or tight muscles) of the lower limbs. Symptoms typically begin in childhood or early adulthood and worsen over time. Key signs and symptoms include:

- Gradual weakness and stiffness in the legs
- Difficulty with walking and balance
- Muscle spasms or contractions
- Foot deformities, such as high arches
- Urinary urgency or incontinence in some cases

The severity and progression of symptoms can vary significantly among affected individuals.
Prognosis
Hereditary spastic paraplegia 37 (HSP37) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by progressive weakness and spasticity of the lower limbs. The prognosis for individuals with HSP37 can vary widely, as the severity and progression of symptoms can differ even among those with the same condition. Generally, HSP37 is considered a slowly progressive disorder. While it can lead to significant mobility issues and may require aids such as walkers or wheelchairs over time, life expectancy is usually not affected.
Onset
Hereditary spastic paraplegia 37 (SPG37) typically has an onset in childhood or adolescence. The condition is characterized by progressive weakness and spasticity of the lower limbs.
Prevalence
The prevalence of Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia 37 (HSP37) is not well-established in the literature, making it difficult to provide a definitive number or estimate. This particular condition is considered rare, with few reported cases.
Epidemiology
Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia 37 (HSP 37) is a rare genetic disorder. Due to its rarity, precise epidemiological data is limited. Generally, hereditary spastic paraplegias collectively have a prevalence of approximately 1 to 9 in 100,000 people globally, but specific data for HSP 37 is not well-documented. As with other forms of HSP, it is an autosomal recessive disorder, meaning that two copies of the mutated gene are required for an individual to be affected. The condition is characterized by progressive spasticity and weakness of the lower limbs.
Intractability
Hereditary spastic paraplegia 37 (SPG37) is considered a progressive neurodegenerative disorder with no known cure. Management focuses on alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life through physical therapy, medications for muscle stiffness, and other supportive measures. Thus, it can be considered intractable because it cannot be cured or completely resolved.
Disease Severity
Hereditary spastic paraplegia 37 (HSP 37) is a type of hereditary spastic paraplegia, which is a group of inherited neurological disorders characterized by progressive weakness and spasticity of the lower limbs. The severity of HSP 37 can vary widely among individuals. In some cases, symptoms can be mild and progress slowly, while in others, they may be more severe and lead to significant disability over time. The onset of symptoms and rate of progression can also vary.
Healthcare Professionals
Disease Ontology ID - DOID:0110788
Pathophysiology
Hereditary spastic paraplegia 37 (SPG37) is a subtype of hereditary spastic paraplegia, a group of genetic disorders characterized by progressive weakness and spasticity of the lower limbs. SPG37 is caused by mutations in the REEP1 gene. This gene is involved in shaping the endoplasmic reticulum and in maintaining the structure and function of neurons, particularly the corticospinal tract, which is critical for motor control. Mutations in REEP1 disrupt these processes, leading to the degeneration of these neurons and resulting in the characteristic symptoms of spasticity and weakness.
Carrier Status
Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia 37 (SPG37) is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. This means that a person must inherit two copies of the mutated gene, one from each parent, to be affected by the condition.

**Carrier status for SPG37:**
- Carriers have one copy of the mutated gene but do not typically show symptoms of the disease.
- Both parents must be carriers for there to be a 25% chance with each pregnancy to have an affected child, a 50% chance to have an unaffected carrier child, and a 25% chance to have an unaffected and non-carrier child.

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Mechanism
Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia 37 (SPG37) is caused by mutations in the genes that encode certain proteins involved in various cellular functions, most notably the TDP1 gene. These mutations cause degeneration of the longest axons in the corticospinal tract, leading to progressive weakness and spasticity of the lower limbs.

Molecular Mechanisms:
1. **TDP1 Gene Mutation**: SPG37 is associated with mutations in the gene encoding tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase 1 (TDP1). This enzyme is crucial for the repair of DNA single-strand breaks.
2. **DNA Repair Impairment**: Mutations in TDP1 impair its ability to repair DNA, leading to the accumulation of DNA damage in neurons, which is especially detrimental to long motor neurons.
3. **Axonal Degeneration**: The impaired DNA repair is believed to contribute to axonal degeneration, particularly in the long motor neurons of the corticospinal tract. This leads to the characteristic symptoms of spasticity and weakness in the lower limbs.
4. **Cellular Stress Responses**: Accumulated DNA damage can trigger stress responses in neurons, potentially leading to cell death and further contributing to the pathology of SPG37.
Treatment
There is currently no cure for hereditary spastic paraplegia 37 (HSP 37). Treatment primarily focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This may include physical therapy to maintain mobility and muscle strength, occupational therapy to assist with daily activities, and the use of assistive devices such as braces or walkers. Medications may be prescribed to reduce muscle spasticity and manage pain. Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is essential to monitor disease progression and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Compassionate Use Treatment
Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia 37 (HSP37) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder. For compassionate use treatment, off-label, or experimental treatments, there are no specific therapies widely accepted for HSP37 due to its rarity. However, some potential approaches might include:

1. **Spasticity Medications**: While not specific to HSP37, drugs like Baclofen, Tizanidine, or Diazepam may be used off-label to manage spasticity.
2. **Physical Therapy**: Regular physical therapy can help manage symptoms and improve mobility.
3. **Research Initiatives**: Clinical trials investigating similar neurodegenerative disorders might offer experimental treatment options.

Consultation with a specialist familiar with neurogenetic disorders is essential to explore these and other potential treatment options fully.
Lifestyle Recommendations
Hereditary spastic paraplegia 37 (HSP37) is a rare genetic disorder affecting the nervous system, primarily causing progressive weakness and spasticity in the lower limbs.

For lifestyle recommendations:
1. **Physical Therapy**: Engage in regular physical therapy to maintain mobility, muscle strength, and flexibility.
2. **Occupational Therapy**: Adapt daily activities to remain independent and improve the quality of life.
3. **Exercise**: Low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling, or yoga can help improve cardiovascular health and muscle tone.
4. **Assistive Devices**: Use of canes, walkers, or wheelchairs may be necessary as the disease progresses.
5. **Balanced Diet**: Maintain a nutritious diet to support overall health and manage weight, easing the stress on lower limbs.
6. **Regular Check-ups**: Monitor progression with regular medical check-ups and consult specialists, such as neurologists and physiatrists.
7. **Mental Health Support**: Psychological counseling or support groups can help cope with the emotional aspects of the disorder.

Engaging in these activities and seeking professional guidance can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for those with HSP37.
Medication
Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia 37 (SPG37) does not have a specific cure. Treatment generally focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This can include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and the use of medications to manage spasticity, such as baclofen, tizanidine, or botulinum toxin injections. As for disease-specific medications, there are no known pharmacological treatments tailored exclusively to SPG37. Consulting with a healthcare professional is crucial for personalized management plans.
Repurposable Drugs
Hereditary spastic paraplegia 37 (HSP37) is a subtype of hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP), typically characterized by progressive stiffness and contraction in the lower limbs. HSP37 results from mutations in the gene that encodes for protein ALDH18A1. As of now, there are no specific repurposable drugs identified for treating HSP37 directly. Management is often focused on symptomatic relief and might include muscle relaxants, physical therapy, and other supportive measures. Further research is needed to identify potential drug candidates for this condition.
Metabolites
Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia 37 (SPG37) refers to a rare genetic disorder characterized by progressive stiffness and contraction (spasticity) in the lower limbs. SPG37 is associated with mutations in the gene responsible for encoding certain proteins that impact nerve function and structure.

For SPG37, specific metabolic profiles are not universally characterized or acknowledged in scientific literature. However, like many neurogenetic disorders, it might theoretically involve disturbances in metabolites related to neuronal function, lipid metabolism, and energy production. Rigorous clinical evaluations and metabolomic studies are required for any conclusive metabolite data. If any particular characteristic metabolite changes become known in future research, they could potentially serve as biomarkers for diagnosis or monitoring disease progression.
Nutraceuticals
There is no specific information available on the use of nutraceuticals for Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia 37 (HSP 37) in current medical literature. Nutraceuticals are food-derived products that offer health benefits, but their efficacy and safety for HSP 37 have not been well-studied. It is best to consult with a healthcare provider for individualized advice.
Peptides
Hereditary spastic paraplegia 37 (SPG37) is a genetic disorder characterized by progressive weakness and spasticity of the lower limbs. It is caused by mutations in the gene. Peptides and nan material-based therapies are emerging experimental approaches. Peptides might be designed to target specific pathways disrupted by the mutation, while nanoscale drug delivery systems can potentially improve the specificity and efficacy of treatments. However, these approaches are still largely in the research phase for hereditary spastic paraplegia.