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Molecular characterization of a novel X-linked syndrome involving developmental delay and deafness
Journal article   Peer reviewed

Molecular characterization of a novel X-linked syndrome involving developmental delay and deafness

Michael S Hildebrand, Michelle G de Silva, Tiong Yang Tan, Elizabeth Rose, Carla Nishimura, Tanya Tolmachova, Joanne M Hulett, Susan M White, Jeremy Silver, Melanie Bahlo, …
American journal of medical genetics. Part A, Vol.143A(21), pp.2564-2575
11/01/2007
DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.31995
PMID: 17935254

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Abstract

X-linked syndromes associated with developmental delay and sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) have been characterized at the molecular level, including Mohr-Tranebjaerg syndrome and Norrie disease. In this study we report on a novel X-linked recessive, congenital syndrome in a family with developmental delay and SNHL that maps to a locus associated with mental retardation (MR) for which no causative gene has been identified. The X-linked recessive inheritance and congenital nature of the syndrome was confirmed by detailed clinical investigation and the family history. Linkage mapping of the X-chromosome was conducted to ascertain the disease locus and candidate genes were screened by direct sequencing and STRP analysis. The recessive syndrome was mapped to Xp11.3-q21.32 and a deletion was identified in a regulatory region upstream of the POU3F4 gene in affected family members. Since mutations in POU3F4 cause deafness at the DFN3 locus, the deletion is the likely cause of the SNHL in this family. The choroideremia (CHM) gene was also screened and a novel missense change was identified. The alteration changes the serine residue at position 89 in the Rab escort 1 protein (REP-1) to a cysteine (S89C). Prenylation of Rab proteins was investigated in patients and the location of REP-1 expression in the brain determined. However, subsequent analysis revealed that this change in CHM was polymorphic having no effect on REP-1 function. Although the causative gene at the MR locus in this family has not been identified, there are a number of genes involved in syndromic and nonsyndromic forms of MR that are potential candidates.
Chromosomes, Human, X - genetics Humans Middle Aged Child, Preschool Male Chromosome Mapping Developmental Disabilities - genetics Hearing Loss, Sensorineural - genetics Genes, Recessive POU Domain Factors - genetics Pedigree Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing - genetics Adolescent Protein Prenylation - genetics Female Genetic Diseases, X-Linked - genetics Child

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