Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 30, 2026

A Reporter Based Cellular Assay for Monitoring Splicing Efficiency
Published on: September 15, 2021
A recurrent deep-intronic splicing CF mutation emphasizes the importance of mRNA studies in clinical practice
Catherine Costa1, Virginie Pruliere-Escabasse, Alix de Becdelievre
1APHP, Groupe hospitalier Henri Mondor, Service de Biochimie-Génétique, Créteil, F-94010, France.
Background:
The identification by CFTR mRNA studies of a new deep-intronic splicing mutation, c.870-1113_1110delGAAT, in one patient of our series with mild CF symptoms and in three CF patients of an Italian study, led us to evaluate the mutation frequency and phenotype/genotype correlations.
Methods:
266 patients with CF and related disorders and having at least one undetected mutation, were tested at the gDNA level in three French reference laboratories.
Results:
In total, the mutation was found in 13 unrelated patients (5% of those already carrying a mutation) plus 4 siblings, including one homozygote and 12 heterozygotes having a severe CF mutation. The sweat test was positive in 10/14 documented cases, the diagnosis was delayed after 20 years in 9/15 and pancreatic insufficiency was present in 5/16.
Conclusion:
c.870-1113_1110delGAAT should be considered as CF-causing with phenotype variability and overall delayed diagnosis. Its frequency highlights the potential of mRNA studies.
Insights
A new deep-intronic splicing mutation, c.870-1113_1110delGAAT, in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients can cause variable symptoms and delayed diagnosis. Its frequency suggests mRNA studies are valuable for identifying CF-causing mutations.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
- Medical Research
Background:
- A novel deep-intronic splicing mutation, c.870-1113_1110delGAAT, was identified in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients.
- Initial findings suggested a link between this mutation and mild CF symptoms, prompting further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the frequency of the c.870-1113_1110delGAAT mutation in CF patients.
- To analyze genotype-phenotype correlations associated with this mutation.
Main Methods:
- Genomic DNA (gDNA) analysis was performed on 266 patients with CF and related disorders who had at least one unidentified mutation.
- Testing was conducted across three French reference laboratories.
Main Results:
- The c.870-1113_1110delGAAT mutation was found in 13 unrelated patients and 4 siblings, representing 5% of individuals with a previously undetected mutation.
- Phenotypic data revealed a positive sweat test in 10/14 cases, delayed diagnosis beyond 20 years in 9/15, and pancreatic insufficiency in 5/16 patients.
- One homozygote and 12 heterozygotes (with a severe CF mutation) were identified.
Conclusions:
- The c.870-1113_1110delGAAT mutation is considered CF-causing, exhibiting variable phenotypes and often leading to delayed diagnosis.
- The mutation's prevalence underscores the diagnostic potential of mRNA studies in cystic fibrosis.
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