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[Clinical characteristics and mutation analysis of the LKB1 gene in a Peutz-Jeghers syndrome pedigree]
1Department of Gastroenterology, Nanjing Children's Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, China.
Insights
Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) is linked to LKB1 gene mutations. A specific LKB1 mutation (c.924G>C) was identified in a PJS family, impacting protein function and aiding diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) is an autosomal dominant disorder.
- PJS is characterized by mucocutaneous pigmentation, gastrointestinal polyps, and a hereditary pattern.
- The LKB1 gene is implicated in PJS pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical features of a Peutz-Jeghers syndrome pedigree.
- To identify mutations in the LKB1 gene within this PJS family.
- To analyze the functional impact of identified LKB1 gene mutations.
Main Methods:
- Clinical data from a PJS family were collected and analyzed.
- LKB1 gene mutation screening was performed using multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) and DNA sequencing.
- Protein structure and function alterations were predicted using SWISS-MODEL software.
Main Results:
- The proband presented with characteristic mucocutaneous pigmentation and gastrointestinal hamartomatous polyps.
- No LKB1 gene fragment deletions were detected by MLPA.
- A germline mutation, c.924G>C in the LKB1 gene (resulting in Trp308Cys), was identified in affected family members but not in 250 healthy controls.
- This mutation is predicted to reduce LKB1 protein activity due to conformational changes.
Conclusions:
- Germline mutation screening of the LKB1 gene is crucial for diagnosing PJS.
- Identifying LKB1 mutations in PJS patients and relatives can lead to definitive diagnoses.
- Early diagnosis and genetic screening can improve patient outcomes and lifespan.
Objective:
To investigate clinical characteristics and mutation of the LKB1 gene in a Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) pedigree.
Method:
Clinical data of a PJS family were analyzed and LKB1 gene mutation was detected by systematic screening with multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) and DNA sequencing. Meanwhile, two hundred and fifty healthy adults were enrolled in this study and denaturing high performance liquid chromatography (PCR-DHPLC) was carried out to verify the mutation excluding polymorphism sites found in this family. Changes in protein structure and function caused by the mutated coding sequence was analyzed by SWISS-MODEL software.
Result:
The proband had pigmented mucocutaneous lesions and multiple hamartomatous polyps in the gastrointestinal tract. There was no fragment deletion of LKB1 gene detected by MLPA. Among PJS family and 250 healthy adults, germline mutation c. 924G > C of LKB1 which cause Trp308Cys in protein sequence was identified only in the proband and another affected member. LKB1 protein activity could be reduced due to changes in LKB1 protein conformation structure by Trp308Cys.
Conclusion:
Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterised by mucocutaneous pigmentation, multiple gastrointestinal hamartomatous polyps and heredofamilial nature. Gene identification and mutagen screening of LKB1 gene in all PJS patients and first degree relatives will contribute to a definite diagnosis and improve the life span of the family.
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