Current Treatments and Therapies for Huntington’s disease

Angelo Nolan^*
*Correspondence: Angelo Nolan, Department of Neurosurgery, Creighton University Medical Center, Omaha, USA, Email:

Introduction

Huntington’s disease (HD) is a hereditary neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. This debilitating condition typically manifests in mid-adulthood and leads to a gradual decline in cognitive, motor and psychiatric functions. While there is currently no cure for HD, advances in research have led to a range of treatments and therapies aimed at managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for affected individuals. Current treatments for Huntington’s disease primarily focus on alleviating symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease. Medications play a crucial role in managing the various manifestations of HD, including motor disturbances, psychiatric symptoms and cognitive decline. For motor symptoms such as chorea—the involuntary, irregular movements commonly seen in HD—antipsychotic medications like haloperidol and newer agents such as deutetrabenazine are often prescribed. Deutetrabenazine, in particular, has been shown to be effective in reducing chorea with a relatively favorable side effect profile [1].

Description

In addition to medications targeting motor symptoms, treatments for psychiatric symptoms are also essential. Individuals with HD may experience a range of psychiatric issues, including depression, anxiety and irritability. Antidepressants and mood stabilizers, such as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and lithium, can be beneficial in managing these symptoms. The choice of medication often depends on the specific psychiatric manifestations and the individual's overall health profile. Cognitive decline in HD presents another significant challenge. While there is no specific medication to halt cognitive deterioration, some drugs may help manage symptoms related to cognitive impairment. Cholinesterase inhibitors, such as donepezil, which are commonly used in Alzheimer’s disease, have shown limited benefits in improving cognitive function in HD patients. Research into more targeted therapies is ongoing, with the aim of developing treatments that could address the underlying mechanisms of cognitive decline in HD [2,3].

Therapies beyond medication are also integral to managing Huntington’s disease. Occupational and physical therapy play a vital role in maintaining motor function and enhancing daily living skills. Occupational therapists help patients adapt their living environments and develop strategies to cope with functional impairments, while physical therapists work on maintaining mobility, strength and balance. Speech therapy can also be beneficial for individuals experiencing difficulties with communication and swallowing, common issues in advanced stages of HD. Psychosocial support is another important aspect of managing Huntington’s disease. The progression of HD can take a significant emotional toll on both patients and their families. Counseling and support groups provide a space for individuals to share their experiences, receive emotional support and learn coping strategies. Mental health professionals can help patients and their families navigate the emotional challenges associated with the disease and develop effective coping mechanisms.

Genetic counseling and testing are also crucial components of care for those at risk of Huntington’s disease. As HD is an autosomal dominant disorder, individuals with a family history of the disease may consider genetic testing to determine their own risk. Genetic counselors provide guidance on the implications of testing, including the psychological impact and the potential for informing reproductive choices. For those who test positive, counseling can help them make informed decisions about their future and manage the associated emotional and practical challenges. Research into new treatments and therapies for Huntington’s disease is continually evolving. Recent advancements include gene-editing technologies such as CRISPR-Cas9, which hold promise for directly targeting and modifying the faulty gene responsible for HD. Clinical trials are exploring various approaches, including gene silencing techniques aimed at reducing the production of the mutant huntingtin protein, which is thought to contribute to the disease’s progression [4,5]. Additionally, there is ongoing research into neuroprotective strategies, which aim to slow or halt neuronal damage and preserve brain function.

Immunotherapy and stem cell research are also areas of active investigation. Immunotherapy approaches seek to harness the body’s immune system to target and eliminate diseased cells or modulate the immune response to protect healthy neurons. Stem cell therapy involves the transplantation of healthy neurons or stem cells into the brain to potentially replace damaged cells and restore function. While these approaches are still in experimental stages, they offer hope for future treatments that could significantly alter the course of the disease.

Conclusion

Overall, while there is no cure for Huntington’s disease, the current landscape of treatments and therapies offers a multifaceted approach to managing the condition. Medications, physical and occupational therapies and psychosocial support collectively contribute to improving the quality of life for individuals with HD. Ongoing research continues to bring hope for more effective treatments and potential breakthroughs that could transform the future of care for Huntington’s disease. As the scientific community advances in its understanding of the disease and develops new therapeutic strategies, the prospect of better management and, eventually, a cure becomes increasingly plausible.

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict of Interest

None.

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