Identification of two novel mutations in the ATP7B gene that cause Wilson's disease

Wilson's disease is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by liver disease and/or neurologic deficits due to copper accumulation and is caused by pathogenic mutations in the ATP7B gene.

Two unrelated Chinese patients born to nonconsanguineous parents who were diagnosed with earlyonset Wilson's disease. DNA sequencing and bioinformation analysis were conducted.

We have identified four mutations in two family trios, of which two were novel, namely, c. 3028A>G (p. K1010E) and c.3992T>G (p.Y1331X), in each patient.

Gene testing is playing an important role in diagnosis of Wilson's disease. The early-onset of Wilson's disease is apparently not associated with P-ATPase domain in the ATP7B protein. Our findings further widen the spectrum of mutations involving the ATP7B gene.