Dr. Sharique Ansari, Kane Hall Barry Neurologist, Publishes New Medical Research
We are proud to share that Dr. Sharique Ansari has co-authored a newly published article in Clinical Case Reports titled:
“Expanded-Access Use of Elamipretide Improves Quality of Life in Patients With Rare Mitochondrial Disorders Characterized by Ophthalmic Symptoms: A Case Series.”
This important work, co-authored with Mary Kay Koenig, MD, explores how elamipretide—a new investigational therapy—may improve quality of life for individuals living with rare mitochondrial disorders that affect the eyes.
About the Research
The study looked at the use of elamipretide, a medication designed to support healthier mitochondria. Mitochondria are often called the “power plants” of our cells because they create the energy our bodies need to function. For people with mitochondrial disorders, these power plants do not work properly, leading to symptoms such as muscle weakness, vision problems, fatigue, and difficulty walking.
The case series followed two patients with rare, progressive mitochondrial disorders:
- Chronic Progressive External Ophthalmoplegia (CPEO-plus)
- Neuropathy, Ataxia, and Retinitis Pigmentosa (NARP) syndrome
Both patients received elamipretide through an expanded-access program and reported meaningful improvements in their energy, mobility, and eye function, which in turn enhanced their overall quality of life.
Mitochondrial disorders are rare and often difficult to treat. While there are currently no FDA-approved therapies for these conditions, expanded-access programs allow patients with serious diseases to try promising investigational treatments when no other options are available. Research like this gives hope that new therapies may improve daily living for patients and families affected by mitochondrial disease.
About Dr. Sharique Ansari
Dr. Ansari has long been dedicated to advancing both research and care for patients with rare neurological disorders. At Kane Hall Barry Neurology, he directs the only CMTA-certified Charcot-Marie-Tooth Center of Excellence in the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex treating adults. He is board certified in Neurology by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) and in Electrodiagnostic Medicine by the American Board of Electrodiagnostic Medicine (ABEM). He also serves as the Co-Medical Director for the AANEM Electrodiagnostic Lab at Kane Hall Barry Neurology Neuromuscular Center. His expertise bridges hands-on patient care, advanced diagnostics, and neuromuscular research.
Beyond patient care, Dr. Ansari is committed to medical education and collaboration with national leaders in neurology. His partnership with Dr. Koenig on this publication confirms his dedication to improving patient outcomes and pushing the boundaries of treatment for rare conditions.
At Kane Hall Barry Neurology, we celebrate this exciting contribution to medical research and are proud to have Dr. Ansari leading innovative work in neuromuscular and rare neurological care, right here in our community.
Dr. Ansari’s published research may be read in full here.