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A novel PCBD gene mutation in an Iranian patient with hyperphenylalaninemia
Marzieh Raeisi1, Nejat Mahdieh, Amir Yousefzadeh
1Medical Genetics Lab. of Dr. Zeinali, Kawsar's Human Genetic Research Center, Tehran, Iran.
Insights
A novel mutation in the PCBD gene was identified in a patient with phenylketonuria (PKU). This finding expands the known spectrum of genetic causes for BH4 deficiency, impacting metabolic disorder diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Phenylketonuria (PKU) screening is standard in neonates, with hyperphenylalaninemias representing common phenylalanine catabolism disorders.
- Six genes, including PAH, PTPS, DHPR, GTPCH, SR, and PCBD, are implicated in BH4 metabolism.
- This study focuses on a referral center in Iran for molecular analysis of PKU.
Observation:
- A 2-year-old boy presented with suspected PKU, but initial PAH gene sequencing revealed no mutations.
- Linkage mapping using short tandem repeats (STR) was employed to screen BH4-metabolizing genes.
- Autozygosity by descent (ABD) patterns suggested potential involvement of the PCBD gene.
Findings:
- Sequencing of the PCBD gene identified a novel homozygous T>C substitution (X105Q) in the termination codon.
- This mutation was found in a patient with phenylketonuria, indicating a potential cause for BH4 deficiency.
- The identified mutation represents a novel finding within the PCBD gene.
Implications:
- This discovery expands the known genetic mutations associated with BH4 deficiency.
- The novel stop codon mutation in PCBD highlights the importance of comprehensive genetic analysis in diagnosing metabolic disorders.
- Understanding these mutations aids in accurate diagnosis and potential future therapeutic strategies for PKU and related conditions.
Background:
Neonatal screening for PKU is carried out nationally and our center is one of the referral centers for molecular analysis of PKU in Iran. Hyperphenylalaninemias are common disorders of phenyalanine catabolism. Six genes, including PAH, PTPS, DHPR, GTPCH, SR, and PCBD, independently play a role in this disorder.
Methods:
A 2-year-old boy was referred to our center for genetic diagnosis of PKU. PAH gene was sequenced but no mutation was found. Using the STR based linkage mapping approach, BH4-metabolizing genes were screened.
Result:
A pattern of autozygosity by descent (ABD) suggested that the PCBD gene may be involved in this family. The PCBD gene was sequenced and a homozygous T > C substitution (X105Q) was found in the termination codon.
Conclusions:
Although most of the reported mutations in PCBD gene are single substitutions or premature stop codons causing a benign or transient form of BH4 deficiency, this novel mutation was found in the stop codon.
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