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Published on: September 19, 2019
Metabolic abnormalities in Williams-Beuren syndrome
María Gabriela Palacios-Verdú1, Maria Segura-Puimedon2, Cristina Borralleras1
1Genetics Unit, Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain Hospital del Mar Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Barcelona, Spain.
Williams-Beuren syndrome (WBS) patients often exhibit decreased triglycerides and cholesterol, alongside hyperbilirubinemia linked to hypothyroidism. Gene haploinsufficiency at 7q11.23 may cause these metabolic changes, requiring early management.
Area of Science:
- Genetics and Molecular Biology
- Endocrinology and Metabolism
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Williams-Beuren syndrome (WBS) is a genetic neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a deletion at 7q11.23, affecting multiple systems.
- Known endocrine and metabolic issues in WBS include transient hypercalcemia, hypothyroidism, and impaired glucose tolerance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate metabolic alterations in WBS patients and mouse models.
- To identify candidate genes and modifiers responsible for WBS-related metabolic disturbances.
Main Methods:
- Analyzed metabolic parameters in 154 WBS individuals and WBS mouse models.
- Investigated gene deletions and variations at the 7q11.23 locus.
Main Results:
- WBS patients showed significantly decreased triglyceride and slightly decreased cholesterol levels.
- Hyperbilirubinemia, subclinical hypothyroidism, and hypotriglyceridemia were observed, suggesting shared pathways.
- Increased protein and iron levels, alongside known glucose intolerance, were also noted.
Conclusions:
- Several unreported biochemical alterations are common in WBS, linked to gene haploinsufficiency at 7q11.23.
- Early diagnosis and management of these metabolic disturbances are crucial for preventing long-term complications.
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