AbstractGermline mutations in fundamental epigenetic regulatory molecules including DNA methyltransferase 3A (DNMT3A) are commonly associated with growth disorders, whereas somatic mutations are often associated with malignancy. We profiled genome-wide DNA methylation patterns in DNMT3A c.2312G>A; p.(Arg771Gln) carriers in a large Amish sibship with Tatton-Brown-Rahman syndrome (TBRS), their mosaic father and 15 TBRS patients with distinct pathogenic de novo DNMT3A variants. This defined widespread DNA hypomethylation at specific genomic sites enriched at locations annotated to genes involved in morphogenesis, development, differentiation, and malignancy predisposition pathways. TBRS patients also displayed highly accelerated DNA methylation aging. Notably, these findings were most striking in a carrier of the AML associated driver mutation p.Arg882Cys. Our studies additionally defined phenotype related accelerated and decelerated epigenetic aging in two histone methyltransferase disorders; NSD1 Sotos syndrome overgrowth disorder and KMT2D Kabuki syndrome growth impairment. Together, our findings provide fundamentally new insights into aberrant epigenetic mechanisms, the role of epigenetic machinery maintenance and determinants of biological aging in these growth disorders.

Ciliopathy disorders due to abnormalities of motile cilia encompass a range of autosomal recessive conditions typified by chronic otosinopulmonary disease, infertility, situs abnormalities and hydrocephalus. Using a combination of genome-wide SNP mapping and whole exome sequencing (WES), we investigated the genetic cause of a form of situs inversus (SI) and male infertility present in multiple individuals in an extended Amish family, assuming that an autosomal recessive founder variant was responsible. This identified a single shared (2.34Mb) region of autozygosity on chromosome 15q21.3 as the likely disease locus, in which we identified a single candidate biallelic frameshift variant in MNS1 [NM_018365.2: c.407_410del; p.(Glu136Glyfs*16)]. Genotyping of multiple family members identified randomisation of the laterality defects in other homozygous individuals, with all wild type or MNS1 c.407_410del heterozygous carriers being unaffected, consistent with an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance. This study identifies an MNS1 variant as a cause of laterality defects and male infertility in humans, mirroring findings in Mns1-deficient mice which also display male infertility and randomisation of left-right asymmetry of internal organs, confirming a crucial role for MNS1 in nodal cilia and sperm flagella formation and function.

Notch signaling is a highly conserved intercellular pathway with tightly regulated and pleiotropic roles in normal tissue development and homeostasis. Dysregulated Notch signaling has also been implicated in human disease, including multiple forms of cancer, and represents an emerging therapeutic target. Successful development of such therapeutics requires a detailed understanding of potential on-target toxicities. Here, we identify autosomal dominant mutations of the canonical Notch ligand Jagged1 (or JAG1) as a cause of peripheral nerve disease in 2 unrelated families with the hereditary axonal neuropathy Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2 (CMT2). Affected individuals in both families exhibited severe vocal fold paresis, a rare feature of peripheral nerve disease that can be life-threatening. Our studies of mutant protein posttranslational modification and localization indicated that the mutations (p.Ser577Arg, p.Ser650Pro) impair protein glycosylation and reduce JAG1 cell surface expression. Mice harboring heterozygous CMT2-associated mutations exhibited mild peripheral neuropathy, and homozygous expression resulted in embryonic lethality by midgestation. Together, our findings highlight a critical role for JAG1 in maintaining peripheral nerve integrity, particularly in the recurrent laryngeal nerve, and provide a basis for the evaluation of peripheral neuropathy as part of the clinical development of Notch pathway-modulating therapeutics.

© 2020, the Author(s). The identification of causal variants in sequencing studies remains a considerable challenge that can be partially addressed by new gene-specific knowledge. Here, we integrate measures of how essential a gene is to supporting life, as inferred from viability and phenotyping screens performed on knockout mice by the International Mouse Phenotyping Consortium and essentiality screens carried out on human cell lines. We propose a cross-species gene classification across the Full Spectrum of Intolerance to Loss-of-function (FUSIL) and demonstrate that genes in five mutually exclusive FUSIL categories have differing biological properties. Most notably, Mendelian disease genes, particularly those associated with developmental disorders, are highly overrepresented among genes non-essential for cell survival but required for organism development. After screening developmental disorder cases from three independent disease sequencing consortia, we identify potentially pathogenic variants in genes not previously associated with rare diseases. We therefore propose FUSIL as an efficient approach for disease gene discovery.

Recent studies have identified both recessive and dominant forms of mitochondrial disease that result from ATAD3A variants. The recessive form includes subjects with biallelic deletions mediated by non-allelic homologous recombination. We report five unrelated neonates with a lethal metabolic disorder characterized by cardiomyopathy, corneal opacities, encephalopathy, hypotonia, and seizures in whom a monoallelic reciprocal duplication at the ATAD3 locus was identified. Analysis of the breakpoint junction fragment indicated that these 67 kb heterozygous duplications were likely mediated by non-allelic homologous recombination at regions of high sequence identity in ATAD3A exon 11 and ATAD3C exon 7. At the recombinant junction, the duplication allele produces a fusion gene derived from ATAD3A and ATAD3C, the protein product of which lacks key functional residues. Analysis of fibroblasts derived from two affected individuals shows that the fusion gene product is expressed and stable. These cells display perturbed cholesterol and mitochondrial DNA organization similar to that observed for individuals with severe ATAD3A deficiency. We hypothesize that the fusion protein acts through a dominant-negative mechanism to cause this fatal mitochondrial disorder. Our data delineate a molecular diagnosis for this disorder, extend the clinical spectrum associated with structural variation at the ATAD3 locus, and identify a third mutational mechanism for ATAD3 gene cluster variants. These results further affirm structural variant mutagenesis mechanisms in sporadic disease traits, emphasize the importance of copy number analysis in molecular genomic diagnosis, and highlight some of the challenges of detecting and interpreting clinically relevant rare gene rearrangements from next-generation sequencing data.

© the Author(s) 2018. Thalidomide embryopathy results from the ingestion of thalidomide in the first trimester during pregnancy, causing multiple forms of congenital abnormalities of variable severity that involve all systems. The skeletal findings most frequently affect the limbs, particularly the upper limbs and hands. Increasingly, several genetic disorders with similar birth defects have been identified. New cases of malformations owing to possible exposure to thalidomide continue to present through both historical and current usage. However, inadequate proof of ingestion, marked phenotypic variation and the possibility of an alternative genetic condition, hinder the diagnosis of thalidomide embryopathy. We introduce a ‘diagnostic algorithm for thalidomide embryopathy’ (DATE) diagnostic software that can potentially provide a numerical score for the likelihood of birth defects in an individual as being caused by exposure to thalidomide and to provide a differential diagnosis based on the pattern of malformation.

We report the case of a consanguineous couple who lost four pregnancies associated with skeletal dysplasia. Radiological examination of one fetus was inconclusive. Parental exome sequencing showed that both parents were heterozygous for a novel missense variant, p.(Pro133Leu), in the SLC35D1 gene encoding a nucleotide sugar transporter. The affected fetus was homozygous for the variant. The radiological features were reviewed, and being similar, but atypical, the phenotype was classified as a 'Schneckenbecken-like dysplasia.' the effect of the missense change was assessed using protein modelling techniques and indicated alterations in the mouth of the solute channel. A detailed biochemical investigation of SLC35D1 transport function and that of the missense variant p.(Pro133Leu) revealed that SLC35D1 acts as a general UDP-sugar transporter and that the p.(Pro133Leu) mutation resulted in a significant decrease in transport activity. The reduced transport activity observed for p.(Pro133Leu) was contrasted with in vitro activity for SLC35D1 p.(Thr65Pro), the loss-of-function mutation was associated with Schneckenbecken dysplasia. The functional classification of SLC35D1 as a general nucleotide sugar transporter of the endoplasmic reticulum suggests an expanded role for this transporter beyond chondroitin sulfate biosynthesis to a variety of important glycosylation reactions occurring in the endoplasmic reticulum.

Nystagmus is a disorder of uncontrolled eye movement and can occur as an isolated trait (idiopathic INS, IINS) or as part of multisystem disorders such as albinism, significant visual disorders or neurological disease. Eighty-one unrelated patients with nystagmus underwent routine ocular phenotyping using commonly available phenotyping methods and were grouped into four sub-cohorts according to the level of phenotyping information gained and their findings. DNA was extracted and sequenced using a broad utility next generation sequencing (NGS) gene panel. A clinical subpanel of genes for nystagmus/albinism was utilised and likely causal variants were prioritised according to methods currently employed by clinical diagnostic laboratories. We determine the likely underlying genetic cause for 43.2% of participants with similar yields regardless of prior phenotyping. This study demonstrates that a diagnostic workflow combining basic ocular phenotyping and a clinically available targeted NGS panel, can provide a high diagnostic yield for patients with infantile nystagmus, enabling access to disease specific management at a young age and reducing the need for multiple costly, often invasive tests. By describing diagnostic yield for groups of patients with incomplete phenotyping data, it also permits the subsequent design of 'real-world' diagnostic workflows and illustrates the changing role of genetic testing in modern diagnostic workflows for heterogeneous ophthalmic disorders.

The centrosomal protein 55 kDa (CEP55 (OMIM 610000)) plays a fundamental role in cell cycle regulation and cytokinesis. However, the precise role of CEP55 in human embryonic growth and development is yet to be fully defined. Here we identified a novel homozygous founder frameshift variant in CEP55, present at low frequency in the Amish community, in two siblings presenting with a lethal foetal disorder. The features of the condition are reminiscent of a Meckel-like syndrome comprising of Potter sequence, hydranencephaly, and cystic dysplastic kidneys. These findings, considered alongside two recent studies of single families reporting loss of function candidate variants in CEP55, confirm disruption of CEP55 function as a cause of this clinical spectrum and enable us to delineate the cardinal clinical features of this disorder, providing important new insights into early human development.

Ciliopathies are a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of disorders often exhibiting phenotypic overlap and caused by abnormalities in the structure or function of cellular cilia. As such, a precise molecular diagnosis is important for guiding clinical management and genetic counseling. In the present study, two Pakistani families comprising individuals with overlapping clinical features suggestive of a ciliopathy syndrome, including intellectual disability, obesity, congenital retinal dystrophy, and hypogonadism (in males), were investigated clinically and genetically. Whole-exome sequencing identified the likely causes of disease as a novel homozygous frameshift mutation (NM_152384.2: c.196delA; p.(Arg66Glufs*12); family 1) in BBS5, and a nonsense mutation (NM_019892.5:c.1879C>T; p.Gln627*; family 2) in INPP5E, previously reported in an extended Pakistani family with MORM syndrome. Our findings expand the molecular spectrum associated with BBS5 mutations in Pakistan and provide further supportive evidence that the INPP5E mutation is a common cause of ciliopathy in Northern Pakistan, likely representing a regional founder mutation. This study also highlights the value of genomic studies in Pakistan for families affected by rare heterogeneous developmental disorders and where clinical phenotyping may be limited by geographical and financial constraints. The identification of the spectrum and frequency of disease-causing variants within this setting enables the development of population-specific genetic testing strategies targeting variants common to the local population and improving health care outcomes.

PURPOSE: Defects in the cohesin pathway are associated with cohesinopathies, notably Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS). We aimed to delineate pathogenic variants in known and candidate cohesinopathy genes from a clinical exome perspective. METHODS: We retrospectively studied patients referred for clinical exome sequencing (CES, N = 10,698). Patients with causative variants in novel or recently described cohesinopathy genes were enrolled for phenotypic characterization. RESULTS: Pathogenic or likely pathogenic single-nucleotide and insertion/deletion variants (SNVs/indels) were identified in established disease genes including NIPBL (N = 5), SMC1A (N = 14), SMC3 (N = 4), RAD21 (N = 2), and HDAC8 (N = 8). The phenotypes in this genetically defined cohort skew towards the mild end of CdLS spectrum as compared with phenotype-driven cohorts. Candidate or recently reported cohesinopathy genes were supported by de novo SNVs/indels in STAG1 (N = 3), STAG2 (N = 5), PDS5A (N = 1), and WAPL (N = 1), and one inherited SNV in PDS5A. We also identified copy-number deletions affecting STAG1 (two de novo, one of unknown inheritance) and STAG2 (one of unknown inheritance). Patients with STAG1 and STAG2 variants presented with overlapping features yet without characteristic facial features of CdLS. CONCLUSION: CES effectively identified disease-causing alleles at the mild end of the cohensinopathy spectrum and enabled characterization of candidate disease genes.

Germline mutations in fundamental epigenetic regulatory molecules including DNA methyltransferase 3 alpha (DNMT3A) are commonly associated with growth disorders, whereas somatic mutations are often associated with malignancy. We profiled genome-wide DNA methylation patterns in DNMT3A c.2312G > A; p.(Arg771Gln) carriers in a large Amish sibship with Tatton-Brown-Rahman syndrome (TBRS), their mosaic father, and 15 TBRS patients with distinct pathogenic de novo DNMT3A variants. This defined widespread DNA hypomethylation at specific genomic sites enriched at locations annotated as genes involved in morphogenesis, development, differentiation, and malignancy predisposition pathways. TBRS patients also displayed highly accelerated DNA methylation aging. These findings were most marked in a carrier of the AML-associated driver mutation p.Arg882Cys. Our studies additionally defined phenotype-related accelerated and decelerated epigenetic aging in two histone methyltransferase disorders: NSD1 Sotos syndrome overgrowth disorder and KMT2D Kabuki syndrome growth impairment. Together, our findings provide fundamental new insights into aberrant epigenetic mechanisms, the role of epigenetic machinery maintenance, and determinants of biological aging in these growth disorders.

BACKGROUND: Neurological disorders are a common cause of morbidity and mortality within Pakistani populations. It is one of the most important challenges in healthcare, with significant life-long socio-economic burden. METHODS: We investigated the cause of disease in three Pakistani families in individuals with unexplained autosomal recessive neurological conditions, using both genome-wide SNP mapping and whole exome sequencing (WES) of affected individuals. RESULTS: We identified a homozygous splice site variant (NM_000521:c.445 + 1G > T) in the hexosaminidase B (HEXB) gene confirming a diagnosis of Sandhoff disease (SD; type II GM2-gangliosidosis), an autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disorder caused by deficiency of hexosaminidases in a single family. In two further unrelated families, we identified a homozygous frameshift variant (NM_024298.3:c.758_778del; p.Glu253_Ala259del) in membrane-bound O-acyltransferase family member 7 (MBOAT7) as the likely cause of disease. MBOAT7 gene variants have recently been identified as a cause of intellectual disability (ID), seizures and autistic features. CONCLUSIONS: We identified two metabolic disorders of lipid biosynthesis within three Pakistani families presenting with undiagnosed neurodevelopmental conditions. These findings enabled an accurate neurological disease diagnosis to be provided for these families, facilitating disease management and genetic counselling within this population. This study consolidates variation within MBOAT7 as a cause of neurodevelopmental disorder, broadens knowledge of the clinical outcomes associated with MBOAT7-related disorder, and confirms the likely presence of a regionally prevalent founder variant (c.758_778del; p.Glu253_Ala259del) in Pakistan.

© 2019 Elsevier Inc. Distal hereditary motor neuropathy (dHMN), also known as distal spinal muscular atrophy (distal SMA), comprises of a group of progressive neurological diseases resulting in degeneration of lower motor neurons with weakness and atrophy in distal muscles. In the present study, we investigated a large multigenerational family from Pakistan with multiple individuals showing distal muscle wasting and weakness of the upper and lower limbs. Our genomic studies identified a previously reported splice-site sequence variant of SIGMAR1 gene in this family (NM_005866.3 c.151+1G>T;c.92_151del; p.31_50del), which has been commonly implicated in a broad spectrum of motor neuron conditions. Structural annotation of human SIGMAR1 protein identified one signal peptide domain, and a single trans-membrane domain. Putative post-translational modifications revealed several generic phosphorylation sites in SIGMAR1, and the protein was predicted to interact with endoplasmic reticulum mono‑oxygenases, CYP51A1 and MSMO1. Our results entail the first report of SIGMAR1 mutation associated with dHMN from Pakistan, and provide the basis for further studies on structural variations and biological pathways involving SIGMAR1 in hereditary motor neuropathies.

Physical stress, including high temperatures, may damage the central metabolic nicotinamide nucleotide cofactors [NAD(P)H], generating toxic derivatives [NAD(P)HX]. The highly conserved enzyme NAD(P)HX dehydratase (NAXD) is essential for intracellular repair of NAD(P)HX. Here we present a series of infants and children who suffered episodes of febrile illness-induced neurodegeneration or cardiac failure and early death. Whole-exome or whole-genome sequencing identified recessive NAXD variants in each case. Variants were predicted to be potentially deleterious through in silico analysis. Reverse-transcription PCR confirmed altered splicing in one case. Subject fibroblasts showed highly elevated concentrations of the damaged cofactors S-NADHX, R-NADHX and cyclic NADHX. NADHX accumulation was abrogated by lentiviral transduction of subject cells with wild-type NAXD. Subject fibroblasts and muscle biopsies showed impaired mitochondrial function, higher sensitivity to metabolic stress in media containing galactose and azide, but not glucose, and decreased mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production. Recombinant NAXD protein harbouring two missense variants leading to the amino acid changes p.(Gly63Ser) and p.(Arg608Cys) were thermolabile and showed a decrease in Vmax and increase in KM for the ATP-dependent NADHX dehydratase activity. This is the first study to identify pathogenic variants in NAXD and to link deficient NADHX repair with mitochondrial dysfunction. The results show that NAXD deficiency can be classified as a metabolite repair disorder in which accumulation of damaged metabolites likely triggers devastating effects in tissues such as the brain and the heart, eventually leading to early childhood death.

BACKGROUND: Inherited palmoplantar keratodermas (PPKs) are clinically and genetically heterogeneous and phenotypically diverse group of genodermatoses characterized by hyperkeratosis of the palms and soles. More than 20 genes have been reported to be associated with PPKs including desmoglein 1 (DSG1) a key molecular component for epidermal adhesion and differentiation. Mal de Meleda (MDM) is a rare inherited autosomal recessive genodermatosis characterized by transgrediens PPK, associated with mutations in the secreted LY6/PLAUR domain containing 1 (SLURP1) gene. METHODS: This study describes clinical as well as genetic whole exome sequencing (WES) and di-deoxy sequencing investigations in two Pakistani families with a total of 12 individuals affected by PPK. RESULTS: WES identified a novel homozygous nonsense variant in SLURP1, and a novel heterozygous nonsense variant in DSG1, as likely causes of the conditions in each family. CONCLUSIONS: This study expands knowledge regarding the molecular basis of PPK, providing important information to aid clinical management in families with PPK from Pakistan.

Copyright © 2019 Wheway and Mitchison. Cilia are highly specialized cellular organelles that serve multiple functions in human development and health. Their central importance in the body is demonstrated by the occurrence of a diverse range of developmental disorders that arise from defects of cilia structure and function, caused by a range of different inherited mutations found in more than 150 different genes. Genetic analysis has rapidly advanced our understanding of the cell biological basis of ciliopathies over the past two decades, with more recent technological advances in genomics rapidly accelerating this progress. The 100,000 Genomes Project was launched in 2012 in the UK to improve diagnosis and future care for individuals affected by rare diseases like ciliopathies, through whole genome sequencing (WGS). In this review we discuss the potential promise and medical impact of WGS for ciliopathies and report on current progress of the 100,000 Genomes Project, reviewing the medical, technical and ethical challenges and opportunities that new, large scale initiatives such as this can offer.

PURPOSE: to investigate eight previously unreported Pakistani families with genetically undefined OCA for mutations in TYR. METHODS: Sanger sequencing of TYR has been performed in eight families with OCA phenotype. Mutation analysis was performed to establish the pathogenic role of novel mutation. Bioinformatics analysis was performed to predict the structural and functional impacts on protein due to the mutation. RESULTS: in this study, we identified six likely pathogenic variants of TYR (c.272 G>A, c.308 G>A, c.346C>T, c.715 C>T, c.832 C>T and c.1255 G>A), including one novel variant (c.308 G>A; p.Cys103Tyr), segregating as appropriate in each family. Cys103 lies in the highly conserved region of the tyrosinase enzyme, and p.Cys103Tyr is predicted to disturb enzymatic function via alteration of the configurational orientation of TYR leading to a more rigid polypeptide structure. We have also reviewed the mutation spectrum of TYR in Pakistani ethnicity. Published data on OCA families proposed that ~40% have been associated with genetic variations in the TYR gene. The mutations reported in this study have now been described with varying frequencies in Pakistani families, including very rare/unique mutations. CONCLUSION: a literature review of TYR gene mutations in Pakistani populations, combined with our genetic data, identified a number of gene mutations likely to represent regional ancestral founder mutations of relevance to Pakistani populations, in addition to sporadic and recurrent 'hotspot' mutations present repeatedly in other regions worldwide.

© 2017 European Society of Human Genetics. Syndromes caused by copy number variations are described as reciprocal when they result from deletions or duplications of the same chromosomal region. When comparing the phenotypes of these syndromes, various clinical features could be described as reversed, probably due to the opposite effect of these imbalances on the expression of genes located at this locus. The NFIX gene codes for a transcription factor implicated in neurogenesis and chondrocyte differentiation. Microdeletions and loss of function variants of NFIX are responsible for Sotos syndrome-2 (also described as Malan syndrome), a syndromic form of intellectual disability associated with overgrowth and macrocephaly. Here, we report a cohort of nine patients harboring microduplications encompassing NFIX. These patients exhibit variable intellectual disability, short stature and small head circumference, which can be described as a reversed Sotos syndrome-2 phenotype. Strikingly, such a reversed phenotype has already been described in patients harboring microduplications encompassing NSD1, the gene whose deletions and loss-of-function variants are responsible for classical Sotos syndrome. Even though the type/contre-type concept has been criticized, this model seems to give a plausible explanation for the pathogenicity of 19p13 microduplications, and the common phenotype observed in our cohort.

OBJECTIVE: Rare genetic disorders resulting in prenatal or neonatal death are genetically heterogeneous, but testing is often limited by the availability of fetal DNA, leaving couples without a potential prenatal test for future pregnancies. We describe our novel strategy of exome sequencing parental DNA samples to diagnose recessive monogenic disorders in an audit of the first 50 couples referred. METHOD: Exome sequencing was carried out in a consecutive series of 50 couples who had 1 or more pregnancies affected with a lethal or prenatal-onset disorder. In all cases, there was insufficient DNA for exome sequencing of the affected fetus. Heterozygous rare variants (MAF 

We identified a homozygous missense alteration (c.75C>A, p.D25E) in CLCC1, encoding a presumptive intracellular chloride channel highly expressed in the retina, associated with autosomal recessive retinitis pigmentosa (arRP) in eight consanguineous families of Pakistani descent. The p.D25E alteration decreased CLCC1 channel function accompanied by accumulation of mutant protein in granules within the ER lumen, while siRNA knockdown of CLCC1 mRNA induced apoptosis in cultured ARPE-19 cells. TALEN KO in zebrafish was lethal 11 days post fertilization. The depressed electroretinogram (ERG) cone response and cone spectral sensitivity of 5 dpf KO zebrafish and reduced eye size, retinal thickness, and expression of rod and cone opsins could be rescued by injection of wild type CLCC1 mRNA. Clcc1+/- KO mice showed decreased ERGs and photoreceptor number. Together these results strongly suggest that intracellular chloride transport by CLCC1 is a critical process in maintaining retinal integrity, and CLCC1 is crucial for survival and function of retinal cells.

© 2018 Elsevier B.V. Background: Oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) is a genetically heterogeneous disorder of abnormal melanin synthesis, resulting in decreased or absent pigmentation of eyes, skin and hair. OCA has been classified based on genetic findings into seven subtypes (OCA 1–7). OCA1 is the most common subtype, accounting for 50% of cases worldwide (Hutton and Spritz, 2008; Rooryck et al. 2008), and is caused by mutations in the tyrosinase (TYR) gene. This study describes genetic investigations in 11 families from Pakistan with individuals with OCA. Methods: Whole genome SNP genotyping for autozygosity mapping was undertaken using the Illumina Human CytoSNP-12 array, and exome sequencing performed using the Illumina TruSight One sequencing panel. For individuals putatively linked to the TYR gene, dideoxy sequencing of TYR was performed using primers targeting all five coding exons and intron-exon splice sites to identify mutations in individuals diagnosed with OCA. Dideoxy sequencing was also performed to confirm the presence and cosegregation of TYR and OCA2 variants identified via exome sequencing. Results: We identified new and previously reported variations in TYR and OCA2 genes in 11 OCA families from Pakistan. One novel missense variant in TYR (NM_000372.4: c.240G>C; p.Trp80Cys), and three novel variants in OCA2 (missense variants NM_000275.2: c.2458T>C; p.Ser820Pro and c.1762C>T; p.Arg588Trp, as well as a frameshift variant c.408_409delTT; p.Arg137Ilefs*83), were observed in five OCA families. In addition, four previously identified variants in TYR (c.649C>T; p.Arg217Trp, c.1255G>A; p.Gly419Arg, c.832C>T; p.Arg278Ter, and c.132T>A p.Ser44Arg) and three previously identified variants in OCA2 (c.1045-15T>G, c.2020C>G; p.Leu674Val and c.1327G>A; p.Val443Ile) were identified in eight OCA families. All affected individuals displayed the cardinal features of OCA with white hair, pale skin, nystagmus and decreased vision. Conclusions: Our findings broaden the molecular spectrum associated with TYR and OCA2 mutations in Pakistani families, aiding the development and refinement of genetic diagnostic and counselling services in Pakistan.

BACKGROUND: Autosomal recessive anophthalmia and microphthalmia are rare developmental eye defects occurring during early fetal development. Syndromic and non-syndromic forms of anophthalmia and microphthalmia demonstrate extensive genetic and allelic heterogeneity. To date, disease mutations have been identified in 29 causative genes associated with anophthalmia and microphthalmia, with autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive and X-linked inheritance patterns described. Biallelic ALDH1A3 gene variants are the leading genetic causes of autosomal recessive anophthalmia and microphthalmia in countries with frequent parental consanguinity. METHODS: This study describes genetic investigations in two consanguineous Pakistani families with a total of seven affected individuals with bilateral non-syndromic clinical anophthalmia. RESULTS: Using whole exome and Sanger sequencing, we identified two novel homozygous ALDH1A3 sequence variants as likely responsible for the condition in each family; missense mutation [NM_000693.3:c.1240G > C, p.Gly414Arg; Chr15:101447332G > C (GRCh37)] in exon 11 (family 1), and, a frameshift mutation [NM_000693.3:c.172dup, p.Glu58Glyfs*5; Chr15:101425544dup (GRCh37)] in exon 2 predicted to result in protein truncation (family 2). CONCLUSIONS: This study expands the molecular spectrum of pathogenic ALDH1A3 variants associated with anophthalmia and microphthalmia, and provides further insight of the key role of the ALDH1A3 in human eye development.

Objective: to identify the genetic cause of disease in 2 previously unreported families with forms of distal hereditary motor neuropathies (dHMNs). Methods: the first family comprises individuals affected by dHMN type V, which lacks the cardinal clinical feature of vocal cord paralysis characteristic of dHMN-VII observed in the second family. Next-generation sequencing was performed on the proband of each family. Variants were annotated and filtered, initially focusing on genes associated with neuropathy. Candidate variants were further investigated and confirmed by dideoxy sequence analysis and cosegregation studies. Thorough patient phenotyping was completed, comprising clinical history, examination, and neurologic investigation. Results: dHMNs are a heterogeneous group of peripheral motor neuron disorders characterized by length-dependent neuropathy and progressive distal limb muscle weakness and wasting. We previously reported a dominant-negative frameshift mutation located in the concluding exon of the SLC5A7 gene encoding the choline transporter (CHT), leading to protein truncation, as the likely cause of dominantly-inherited dHMN-VII in an extended UK family. In this study, our genetic studies identified distinct heterozygous frameshift mutations located in the last coding exon of SLC5A7, predicted to result in the truncation of the CHT C-terminus, as the likely cause of the condition in each family. Conclusions: This study corroborates C-terminal CHT truncation as a cause of autosomal dominant dHMN, confirming upper limb predominating over lower limb involvement, and broadening the clinical spectrum arising from CHT malfunction.

Mutations in genes involved in lipid metabolism have increasingly been associated with various subtypes of hereditary spastic paraplegia, a highly heterogeneous group of neurodegenerative motor neuron disorders characterized by spastic paraparesis. Here, we report an unusual autosomal recessive neurodegenerative condition, best classified as a complicated form of hereditary spastic paraplegia, associated with mutation in the ethanolaminephosphotransferase 1 (EPT1) gene (now known as SELENOI), responsible for the final step in Kennedy pathway forming phosphatidylethanolamine from CDP-ethanolamine. Phosphatidylethanolamine is a glycerophospholipid that, together with phosphatidylcholine, constitutes more than half of the total phospholipids in eukaryotic cell membranes. We determined that the mutation defined dramatically reduces the enzymatic activity of EPT1, thereby hindering the final step in phosphatidylethanolamine synthesis. Additionally, due to central nervous system inaccessibility we undertook quantification of phosphatidylethanolamine levels and species in patient and control blood samples as an indication of liver phosphatidylethanolamine biosynthesis. Although this revealed alteration to levels of specific phosphatidylethanolamine fatty acyl species in patients, overall phosphatidylethanolamine levels were broadly unaffected indicating that in blood EPT1 inactivity may be compensated for, in part, via alternate biochemical pathways. These studies define the first human disorder arising due to defective CDP-ethanolamine biosynthesis and provide new insight into the role of Kennedy pathway components in human neurological function.

Actin nucleation factors function to organize, shape, and move membrane-bound organelles, yet they remain poorly defined in relation to disease. Galloway-Mowat syndrome (GMS) is an inherited disorder characterized by microcephaly and nephrosis resulting from mutations in the WDR73 gene. This core clinical phenotype appears frequently in the Amish, where virtually all affected individuals harbor homozygous founder mutations in WDR73 as well as the closely linked WHAMM gene, which encodes a nucleation factor. Here we show that patient cells with both mutations exhibit cytoskeletal irregularities and severe defects in autophagy. Reintroduction of wild-type WHAMM restored autophagosomal biogenesis to patient cells, while inactivation of WHAMM in healthy cell lines inhibited lipidation of the autophagosomal protein LC3 and clearance of ubiquitinated protein aggregates. Normal WHAMM function involved binding to the phospholipid PI(3)P and promoting actin nucleation at nascent autophagosomes. These results reveal a cytoskeletal pathway controlling autophagosomal remodeling and illustrate several molecular processes that are perturbed in Amish GMS patients.

Copyright 2017 American Medical Association. All rights reserved. IMPORTANCE: Steroid 5α-reductase type 3 congenital disorder of glycosylation (SRD5A3-CDG) is a rare disorder of N-linked glycosylation. Its retinal phenotype is not well described but could be important for disease recognition because it appears to be a consistent primary presenting feature. OBJECTIVE: to investigate a series of patients with the same mutation in the SRD5A3 gene and thereby characterize its retinal manifestations and other associated features. DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: Seven affected individuals from 4 unrelated families with early-onset retinal dystrophy as a primary manifestation underwent comprehensive ophthalmic assessment, including retinal imaging and electrodiagnostic testing. Developmental and systemic findings were also recorded. Molecular genetic approaches, including targeted next-generation sequencing, autozygosity mapping, and apex microarray, were tried to reach a diagnosis; all participants were mutation negative. Whole-exome sequencing or whole-genome sequencing was used to identify the causative variant. Biochemical profiling was conducted to confirm a CDGtype I defect. Patient phenotype data were collected over the course of ophthalmic follow-up, spanning a period of 20 years, beginning March 20, 1997, through September 15, 2016. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: Detailed clinical phenotypes as well as genetic and biochemical results. RESULTS: the cohort consisted of 7 participants (5 females and 2 males) whose mean (SD) age at the most recent examination was 17.1 (3.9) years and who were all of South Asian ethnicity. Whole-exome sequencing and whole-genome sequencing identified the same homozygous SRD5A3 c.57G>A, p. (Trp19Ter) variant as the underlying cause of early-onset retinal dystrophy in each family. Detailed ocular phenotyping identified early-onset (aged

The presynaptic, high-affinity choline transporter is a critical determinant of signalling by the neurotransmitter acetylcholine at both central and peripheral cholinergic synapses, including the neuromuscular junction. Here we describe an autosomal recessive presynaptic congenital myasthenic syndrome presenting with a broad clinical phenotype due to homozygous choline transporter missense mutations. The clinical phenotype ranges from the classical presentation of a congenital myasthenic syndrome in one patient (p.Pro210Leu), to severe neurodevelopmental delay with brain atrophy (p.Ser94Arg) and extend the clinical outcomes to a more severe spectrum with infantile lethality (p.Val112Glu). Cells transfected with mutant transporter construct revealed a virtually complete loss of transport activity that was paralleled by a reduction in transporter cell surface expression. Consistent with these findings, studies to determine the impact of gene mutations on the trafficking of the Caenorhabditis elegans choline transporter orthologue revealed deficits in transporter export to axons and nerve terminals. These findings contrast with our previous findings in autosomal dominant distal hereditary motor neuropathy of a dominant-negative frameshift mutation at the C-terminus of choline transporter that was associated with significantly reduced, but not completely abrogated choline transporter function. Together our findings define divergent neuropathological outcomes arising from different classes of choline transporter mutation with distinct disease processes and modes of inheritance. These findings underscore the essential role played by the choline transporter in sustaining acetylcholine neurotransmission at both central and neuromuscular synapses, with important implications for treatment and drug selection.

Orofacial clefting is amongst the most common of birth defects, with both genetic and environmental components. Although numerous studies have been undertaken to investigate the complexities of the genetic etiology of this heterogeneous condition, this factor remains incompletely understood. Here, we describe mutations in the HYAL2 gene as a cause of syndromic orofacial clefting. HYAL2, encoding hyaluronidase 2, degrades extracellular hyaluronan, a critical component of the developing heart and palatal shelf matrix. Transfection assays demonstrated that the gene mutations destabilize the molecule, dramatically reducing HYAL2 protein levels. Consistent with the clinical presentation in affected individuals, investigations of Hyal2-/- mice revealed craniofacial abnormalities, including submucosal cleft palate. In addition, cor triatriatum sinister and hearing loss, identified in a proportion of Hyal2-/- mice, were also found as incompletely penetrant features in affected humans. Taken together our findings identify a new genetic cause of orofacial clefting in humans and mice, and define the first molecular cause of human cor triatriatum sinister, illustrating the fundamental importance of HYAL2 and hyaluronan turnover for normal human and mouse development.

Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) is an essential cofactor for DNA replication and repair, recruiting multiple proteins to their sites of action. We examined the effects of the PCNAS228I mutation that causes PCNA-associated DNA repair disorder (PARD). Cells from individuals affected by PARD are sensitive to the PCNA inhibitors T3 and T2AA, showing that the S228I mutation has consequences for undamaged cells. Analysis of the binding between PCNA and PCNA-interacting proteins (PIPs) shows that the S228I change dramatically impairs the majority of these interactions, including that of Cdt1, DNMT1, PolD3p66 and PolD4p12. In contrast p21 largely retains the ability to bind PCNAS228I. This property is conferred by the p21 PIP box sequence itself, which is both necessary and sufficient for PCNAS228I binding. Ubiquitination of PCNA is unaffected by the S228I change, which indirectly alters the structure of the inter-domain connecting loop. Despite the dramatic in vitro effects of the PARD mutation on PIP-degron binding, there are only minor alterations to the stability of p21 and Cdt1 in cells from affected individuals. Overall our data suggests that reduced affinity of PCNAS228I for specific clients causes subtle cellular defects in undamaged cells which likely contribute to the etiology of PARD.

PRUNE is a member of the DHH (Asp-His-His) phosphoesterase protein superfamily of molecules important for cell motility, and implicated in cancer progression. Here we investigated multiple families from Oman, India, Iran and Italy with individuals affected by a new autosomal recessive neurodevelopmental and degenerative disorder in which the cardinal features include primary microcephaly and profound global developmental delay. Our genetic studies identified biallelic mutations of PRUNE1 as responsible. Our functional assays of disease-associated variant alleles revealed impaired microtubule polymerization, as well as cell migration and proliferation properties, of mutant PRUNE. Additionally, our studies also highlight a potential new role for PRUNE during microtubule polymerization, which is essential for the cytoskeletal rearrangements that occur during cellular division and proliferation. Together these studies define PRUNE as a molecule fundamental for normal human cortical development and define cellular and clinical consequences associated with PRUNE mutation.

Although over 150 unique mutations affecting the coding sequence of CHM have been identified in patients with the X-linked chorioretinal disease choroideremia (CHM), no regulatory mutations have been reported, and indeed the promoter has not been defined. Here, we describe two independent families affected by CHM bearing a mutation outside the gene's coding region at position c.-98: C>A and C>T, which segregated with the disease. The male proband of family 1 was found to lack CHM mRNA and its gene product Rab escort protein 1, whereas whole-genome sequencing of an affected male in family 2 excluded the involvement of any other known retinal genes. Both mutations abrogated luciferase activity when inserted into a reporter construct, and by further employing the luciferase reporter system to assay sequences 5' to the gene, we identified the CHM promoter as the region encompassing nucleotides c.-119 to c.-76. These findings suggest that the CHM promoter region should be examined in patients with CHM who lack coding sequence mutations, and reveals, for the first time, features of the gene's regulation.

© 2016,Iranian Journal of Public Health. All rights reserved. Oral-facial-digital syndrome as heterogeneous developmental conditions is characterized by abnormalities in the oral cavity,facial features and digits. Furthermore,central nervous system (CNS) abnormalities can also be part of this developmental disorder. At least 13 forms of OFDS based on their pattern of signs and symptoms have been identified so far. Type 1 which is now considered to be a ciliopathy accounts for the majority of cases. It is transmitted in an X-linked dominant pattern and caused by mutations in OFD1 gene,which can result in embryonic male lethality. In this study,we present a family suffering from orofaciodigital syndrome type I who referred to Medical Genetics Research Center,Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences in 2015. Two female siblings and their mother shared a novel 2-base pair deletion (c.1964-1965delGA) in exon 16 of OFD1 gene. Clinically,the sibling had oral,facial and brain abnormalities,whereas their mother is very mildly affected. She also had history of recurrent miscarriage of male fetus.

Congenital short bowel syndrome (CSBS) is an intestinal pediatric disorder, where patients are born with a dramatic shortened small intestine. Pathogenic variants in CLMP were recently identified to cause an autosomal recessive form of the disease. However, due to the rare nature of CSBS, only a small number of patients have been reported to date with variants in this gene. In this report, we describe novel inherited variants in CLMP in three CSBS patients derived from two unrelated families, confirming CLMP as the major gene involved in the development of the recessive form of CSBS.

Hereditary spastic paraplegias (HSPs) are genetically and clinically heterogeneous axonopathies primarily affecting upper motor neurons and, in complex forms, additional neurons. Here, we report two families with distinct recessive mutations in TFG, previously suggested to cause HSP based on findings in a single small family with complex HSP. The first carried a homozygous c.317G>A (p.R106H) variant and presented with pure HSP. The second carried the same homozygous c.316C>T (p.R106C) variant previously reported and displayed a similarly complex phenotype including optic atrophy. Haplotyping and bisulfate sequencing revealed evidence for a c.316C>T founder allele, as well as for a c.316_317 mutation hotspot. Expression of mutant TFG proteins in cultured neurons revealed mitochondrial fragmentation, the extent of which correlated with clinical severity. Our findings confirm the causal nature of bi-allelic TFG mutations for HSP, broaden the clinical and mutational spectra, and suggest mitochondrial impairment to represent a pathomechanistic link to other neurodegenerative conditions.

A mutation in the HERC2 gene has been linked to a severe neurodevelopmental disorder with similarities to the Angelman syndrome. This gene codifies a protein with ubiquitin ligase activity that regulates the activity of tumor protein p53 and is involved in important cellular processes such as DNA repair, cell cycle, cancer, and iron metabolism. Despite the critical role of HERC2 in these physiological and pathological processes, little is known about its relevance in vivo. Here, we described a mouse with targeted inactivation of the Herc2 gene. Homozygous mice were not viable. Distinct from other ubiquitin ligases that interact with p53, such as MDM2 or MDM4, p53 depletion did not rescue the lethality of homozygous mice. The HERC2 protein levels were reduced by approximately one-half in heterozygous mice. Consequently, HERC2 activities, including ubiquitin ligase and stimulation of p53 activity, were lower in heterozygous mice. A decrease in HERC2 activities was also observed in human skin fibroblasts from individuals with an Angelman-like syndrome that express an unstable mutant protein of HERC2. Behavioural analysis of heterozygous mice identified an impaired motor synchronization with normal neuromuscular function. This effect was not observed in p53 knockout mice, indicating that a mechanism independent of p53 activity is involved. Morphological analysis showed the presence of HERC2 in Purkinje cells and a specific loss of these neurons in the cerebella of heterozygous mice. In these animals, an increase of autophagosomes and lysosomes was observed. Our findings establish a crucial role of HERC2 in embryonic development and motor coordination.

BACKGROUND: the deletion of the chromosome 4p16.3 Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome critical region (WHSCR-2) typically results in a characteristic facial appearance, varying intellectual disability, stereotypies and prenatal onset of growth retardation, while gains of the same chromosomal region result in a more variable degree of intellectual deficit and dysmorphism. Similarly the phenotype of individuals with terminal deletions of distal chromosome 3p (3p deletion syndrome) varies from mild to severe intellectual deficit, micro- and trigonocephaly, and a distinct facial appearance. METHODS AND RESULTS: We investigated a large Indian five-generation pedigree with ten affected family members in which chromosomal microarray and fluorescence in situ hybridization analyses disclosed a complex rearrangement involving chromosomal subregions 4p16.1 and 3p26.3 resulting in a 4p16.1 deletion and 3p26.3 microduplication in three individuals, and a 4p16.1 duplication and 3p26.3 microdeletion in seven individuals. A typical clinical presentation of WHS was observed in all three cases with 4p16.1 deletion and 3p26.3 microduplication. Individuals with a 4p16.1 duplication and 3p26.3 microdeletion demonstrated a range of clinical features including typical 3p microdeletion or 4p partial trisomy syndrome to more severe neurodevelopmental delay with distinct dysmorphic features. CONCLUSION: We present the largest pedigree with complex t(4p;3p) chromosomal rearrangements and diverse clinical outcomes including Wolf Hirschorn-, 3p deletion-, and 4p duplication syndrome amongst affected individuals.

© 2015 Nature America, Inc. All rights reserved. The major pathway by which the brain obtains essential omega-3 fatty acids from the circulation is through a sodium-dependent lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) transporter (MFSD2A), expressed in the endothelium of the blood-brain barrier. Here we show that a homozygous mutation affecting a highly conserved MFSD2A residue (p.Ser339Leu) is associated with a progressive microcephaly syndrome characterized by intellectual disability, spasticity and absent speech. We show that the p.Ser339Leu alteration does not affect protein or cell surface expression but rather significantly reduces, although not completely abolishes, transporter activity. Notably, affected individuals displayed significantly increased plasma concentrations of LPCs containing mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acyl chains, indicative of reduced brain uptake, confirming the specificity of MFSD2A for LPCs having mono-and polyunsaturated fatty acyl chains. Together, these findings indicate an essential role for LPCs in human brain development and function and provide the first description of disease associated with aberrant brain LPC transport in humans.

The major pathway by which the brain obtains essential omega-3 fatty acids from the circulation is through a sodium-dependent lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) transporter (MFSD2A), expressed in the endothelium of the blood-brain barrier. Here we show that a homozygous mutation affecting a highly conserved MFSD2A residue (p.Ser339Leu) is associated with a progressive microcephaly syndrome characterized by intellectual disability, spasticity and absent speech. We show that the p.Ser339Leu alteration does not affect protein or cell surface expression but rather significantly reduces, although not completely abolishes, transporter activity. Notably, affected individuals displayed significantly increased plasma concentrations of LPCs containing mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acyl chains, indicative of reduced brain uptake, confirming the specificity of MFSD2A for LPCs having mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acyl chains. Together, these findings indicate an essential role for LPCs in human brain development and function and provide the first description of disease associated with aberrant brain LPC transport in humans.

OBJECTIVE: to identify the genetic cause of pontocerebellar hypoplasia type III (PCH3). METHODS: We studied the original reported pedigree of PCH3 and performed genetic analysis including genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism genotyping, linkage analysis, whole-exome sequencing, and Sanger sequencing. Human fetal brain RNA sequencing data were then analyzed for the identified candidate gene. RESULTS: the affected individuals presented with severe global developmental delay and seizures starting in the first year of life. Brain MRI of an affected individual showed diffuse atrophy of the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brainstem. Genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism analysis confirmed the linkage to chromosome 7q we previously reported, and showed no other genomic areas of linkage. Whole-exome sequencing of 2 affected individuals identified a shared homozygous, nonsense variant in the PCLO (piccolo) gene. This variant segregated with the disease phenotype in the pedigree was rare in the population and was predicted to eliminate the PDZ and C2 domains in the C-terminus of the protein. RNA sequencing data of human fetal brain showed that PCLO was moderately expressed in the developing cerebral cortex. CONCLUSIONS: Here, we show that a homozygous, nonsense PCLO mutation underlies the autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disorder, PCH3. PCLO is a component of the presynaptic cytoskeletal matrix, and is thought to be involved in regulation of presynaptic proteins and synaptic vesicles. Our findings suggest that PCLO is crucial for the development and survival of a wide range of neuronal types in the human brain.

© 2015 Macmillan Publishers Limited. All rights reserved. Human-imprinting disorders are congenital disorders of growth, development and metabolism, associated with disturbance of parent of origin-specific DNA methylation at imprinted loci across the genome. Some imprinting disorders have higher than expected prevalence of monozygotic twinning, of assisted reproductive technology among parents, and of disturbance of multiple imprinted loci, for which few causative trans-acting mutations have been found. Here we report mutations in NLRP5 in five mothers of individuals affected by multilocus imprinting disturbance. Maternal-effect mutations of other human NLRP genes, NLRP7 and NLRP2, cause familial biparental hydatidiform mole and multilocus imprinting disturbance, respectively. Offspring of mothers with NLRP5 mutations have heterogenous clinical and epigenetic features, but cases include a discordant monozygotic twin pair, individuals with idiopathic developmental delay and autism, and families affected by infertility and reproductive wastage. NLRP5 mutations suggest connections between maternal reproductive fitness, early zygotic development and genomic imprinting.

We describe a novel nephrocerebellar syndrome on the Galloway-Mowat syndrome spectrum among 30 children (ages 1.0 to 28 years) from diverse Amish demes. Children with nephrocerebellar syndrome had progressive microcephaly, visual impairment, stagnant psychomotor development, abnormal extrapyramidal movements and nephrosis. Fourteen died between ages 2.7 and 28 years, typically from renal failure. Post-mortem studies revealed (i) micrencephaly without polymicrogyria or heterotopia; (ii) atrophic cerebellar hemispheres with stunted folia, profound granule cell depletion, Bergmann gliosis, and signs of Purkinje cell deafferentation; (iii) selective striatal cholinergic interneuron loss; and (iv) optic atrophy with delamination of the lateral geniculate nuclei. Renal tissue showed focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis and extensive effacement and microvillus transformation of podocyte foot processes. Nephrocerebellar syndrome mapped to 700 kb on chromosome 15, which contained a single novel homozygous frameshift variant (WDR73 c.888delT; p.Phe296Leufs*26). WDR73 protein is expressed in human cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and cultured embryonic kidney cells. It is concentrated at mitotic microtubules and interacts with α-, β-, and γ-tubulin, heat shock proteins 70 and 90 (HSP-70; HSP-90), and the carbamoyl phosphate synthetase 2/aspartate transcarbamylase/dihydroorotase multi-enzyme complex. Recombinant WDR73 p.Phe296Leufs*26 and p.Arg256Profs*18 proteins are truncated, unstable, and show increased interaction with α- and β-tubulin and HSP-70/HSP-90. Fibroblasts from patients homozygous for WDR73 p.Phe296Leufs*26 proliferate poorly in primary culture and senesce early. Our data suggest that in humans, WDR73 interacts with mitotic microtubules to regulate cell cycle progression, proliferation and survival in brain and kidney. We extend the Galloway-Mowat syndrome spectrum with the first description of diencephalic and striatal neuropathology.

Numerous human disorders, including Cockayne syndrome, UV-sensitive syndrome, xeroderma pigmentosum, and trichothiodystrophy, result from the mutation of genes encoding molecules important for nucleotide excision repair. Here, we describe a syndrome in which the cardinal clinical features include short stature, hearing loss, premature aging, telangiectasia, neurodegeneration, and photosensitivity, resulting from a homozygous missense (p.Ser228Ile) sequence alteration of the proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). PCNA is a highly conserved sliding clamp protein essential for DNA replication and repair. Due to this fundamental role, mutations in PCNA that profoundly impair protein function would be incompatible with life. Interestingly, while the p.Ser228Ile alteration appeared to have no effect on protein levels or DNA replication, patient cells exhibited marked abnormalities in response to UV irradiation, displaying substantial reductions in both UV survival and RNA synthesis recovery. The p.Ser228Ile change also profoundly altered PCNA's interaction with Flap endonuclease 1 and DNA Ligase 1, DNA metabolism enzymes. Together, our findings detail a mutation of PCNA in humans associated with a neurodegenerative phenotype, displaying clinical and molecular features common to other DNA repair disorders, which we showed to be attributable to a hypomorphic amino acid alteration.

The proper development of neuronal circuits during neuromorphogenesis and neuronal-network formation is critically dependent on a coordinated and intricate series of molecular and cellular cues and responses. Although the cortical actin cytoskeleton is known to play a key role in neuromorphogenesis, relatively little is known about the specific molecules important for this process. Using linkage analysis and whole-exome sequencing on samples from families from the Amish community of Ohio, we have demonstrated that mutations in KPTN, encoding kaptin, cause a syndrome typified by macrocephaly, neurodevelopmental delay, and seizures. Our immunofluorescence analyses in primary neuronal cell cultures showed that endogenous and GFP-tagged kaptin associates with dynamic actin cytoskeletal structures and that this association is lost upon introduction of the identified mutations. Taken together, our studies have identified kaptin alterations responsible for macrocephaly and neurodevelopmental delay and define kaptin as a molecule crucial for normal human neuromorphogenesis.

BACKGROUND: Deregulation of the activity of the ubiquitin ligase E6AP (UBE3A) is well recognised to contribute to the development of Angelman syndrome (AS). The ubiquitin ligase HERC2, encoded by the HERC2 gene is thought to be a key regulator of E6AP. METHODS AND RESULTS: Using a combination of autozygosity mapping and linkage analysis, we studied an autosomal-recessive neurodevelopmental disorder with some phenotypic similarities to AS, found among the Old Order Amish. Our molecular investigation identified a mutation in HERC2 associated with the disease phenotype. We establish that the encoded mutant HERC2 protein has a reduced half-life compared with its wild-type counterpart, which is associated with a significant reduction in HERC2 levels in affected individuals. CONCLUSIONS: Our data implicate a model in which disruption of HERC2 function relates to a reduction in E6AP activity resulting in neurodevelopmental delay, suggesting a previously unrecognised role of HERC2 in the pathogenesis of AS.

Glycosphingolipids are ubiquitous constituents of eukaryotic plasma membranes, and their sialylated derivatives, gangliosides, are the major class of glycoconjugates expressed by neurons. Deficiencies in their catabolic pathways give rise to a large and well-studied group of inherited disorders, the lysosomal storage diseases. Although many glycosphingolipid catabolic defects have been defined, only one proven inherited disease arising from a defect in ganglioside biosynthesis is known. This disease, because of defects in the first step of ganglioside biosynthesis (GM3 synthase), results in a severe epileptic disorder found at high frequency amongst the Old Order Amish. Here we investigated an unusual neurodegenerative phenotype, most commonly classified as a complex form of hereditary spastic paraplegia, present in families from Kuwait, Italy and the Old Order Amish. Our genetic studies identified mutations in B4GALNT1 (GM2 synthase), encoding the enzyme that catalyzes the second step in complex ganglioside biosynthesis, as the cause of this neurodegenerative phenotype. Biochemical profiling of glycosphingolipid biosynthesis confirmed a lack of GM2 in affected subjects in association with a predictable increase in levels of its precursor, GM3, a finding that will greatly facilitate diagnosis of this condition. With the description of two neurological human diseases involving defects in two sequentially acting enzymes in ganglioside biosynthesis, there is the real possibility that a previously unidentified family of ganglioside deficiency diseases exist. The study of patients and animal models of these disorders will pave the way for a greater understanding of the role gangliosides play in neuronal structure and function and provide insights into the development of effective treatment therapies.

Imprinting disorders are associated with mutations and epimutations affecting imprinted genes, that is those whose expression is restricted by parent of origin. Their diagnosis is challenging for two reasons: firstly, their clinical features, particularly prenatal and postnatal growth disturbance, are heterogeneous and partially overlapping; secondly, their underlying molecular defects include mutation, epimutation, copy number variation, and chromosomal errors, and can be further complicated by somatic mosaicism and multi-locus methylation defects. It is currently unclear to what extent the observed phenotypic heterogeneity reflects the underlying molecular pathophysiology; in particular, the molecular and clinical diversity of multilocus methylation defects remains uncertain. To address these issues we performed comprehensive methylation analysis of imprinted genes in a research cohort of 285 patients with clinical features of imprinting disorders, with or without a positive molecular diagnosis. 20 of 91 patients (22%) with diagnosed epimutations had methylation defects of additional imprinted loci, and the frequency of developmental delay and congenital anomalies was higher among these patients than those with isolated epimutations, indicating that hypomethylation of multiple imprinted loci is associated with increased diversity of clinical presentation. Among 194 patients with clinical features of an imprinting disorder but no molecular diagnosis, we found 15 (8%) with methylation anomalies, including missed and unexpected molecular diagnoses. These observations broaden the phenotypic and epigenetic definitions of imprinting disorders, and show the importance of comprehensive molecular testing for patient diagnosis and management. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Angelman syndrome (AS) and Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) are caused by genetic and epigenetic mutations of the imprinted gene cluster on chromosome 15q13. Although the imprinting mutations causing PWS and AS are essentially opposite in nature, remarkably, a small number of patients have been reported with clinical features of PWS but epigenetic mutations consistent with AS. We report here a patient who presented with clinical features partially consistent with both PWS and Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome (BWS). Epimutations were found at both the AS/PWS and BWS loci, and additionally at the H19, PEG3, NESPAS and GNAS loci. This patient is therefore the first described case with a primary epimutation consistent with AS accompanied by hypomethylation of other imprinted loci.

We report on a patient who was initially suspected to have Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome because of recurrent neonatal hypoglycaemias, macroglossia and overgrowth, but in whom no 11p15 abnormality could be found. Follow-up showed continued overgrowth and disturbed glucose homeostasis, a marked developmental delay, and severe behavioural problems especially caused by anxieties. Array comparative genomic hybridization analysis showed a de novo 12q24.31 interstitial deletion, which was confirmed by fluorescence in situ hybridization. The deleted region contains amongst others: HNF1 homeobox a (HNF1A) which is important for the regulation of gene expression in the liver and involved in maturity-onset diabetes of the young type 3 and insulin resistance; acyl-CoA dehydrogenase short chain (ACADS) which encodes an enzyme important in mitochondrial fatty acid beta-oxidation and can cause short-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenese (SCAD) deficiency, and purinergic receptor P2X7 (P2RX7) which encodes a ligand-gated ion channel, and of which polymorphisms are found with increased frequency in patients with psychiatric disorders, especially anxieties. We conclude the present patient has a hitherto undescribed contiguous gene syndrome, which can initially resemble Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome. Copyright © 2010 S. Karger AG.

This study was an investigation of 90 patients referred to the Wessex Regional Genetics Laboratory for and negative by molecular cytogenetic analysis using array comparative genomic hybridization. This patient cohort represents typical referrals to a regional genetic centre. Methylation analysis was performed at 13 imprinted loci [PLAGL1, IGF2R, MEST, GRB10, H19, IGF2 DMR2 (IGF2P0), KCNQ1OT1 (KvDMR), MEG3, SNRPN, PEG3, GNAS (GNAS exon 1a and NESP55) and GNASAS]. In total 6/90 (6.67%) were shown to have a methylation defect, 2 of which were associated with known imprinting disorders: 1 patient had isolated hypomethylation at IGF2P0, an atypical epigenotype associated with Russell-Silver syndrome, and 1 showed hypomethylation at KvDMR consistent with a diagnosis of Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome. A further 4 patients, 3 exhibiting complete hypermethylation, and 1 partial hypomethylation, had aberrations at IGF2R, the clinical significance of which remains unclear. This study demonstrates the potential utility of epigenetic investigation in routine diagnostic testing. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Natural antibodies (NAb) and complement (C′) are important regulators of immune system activation. We have shown previously that the galactosyl-αl,3-galactosyl (Galα1,3Gal) xenoantigen and the similar ABO histo-blood group antigens are transferred onto virus from the producer cell, resulting in sensitisation of the virus to the respective NAb in a C′-dependent manner. Here we show that measles virus (Mv) that expresses Galα1,3Gal termini can drive the proliferation of human T cells in the presence of serum and autologous DC, whereas without such targets, measles, as expected, suppress T cell reactivity. The use of affinity-purified NAb to Galα1,3Gal and rabbit C′ demonstrated the components in human serum responsible for this effect. Proteasome inhibition and blocking of antigen presentation showed that the increased T cell proliferation was mediated by MHC class I cross-presentation of immune complexes. These results lend further support to the idea that polymorphic carbohydrates of the Galα1,3Gal/ABO type serve as important targets for NAb and C′ and that their expression on virus has influenced their evolution by contributing to protection against viral transmission within as well as between species. The adjuvance effect of this recognition, acting as a bridge between the natural innate and daptive immune systems, also has important implications for vaccine development. © 2007 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.