Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 1, 2026

Optogenetic Functional MRI
Published on: April 19, 2016
MRI findings of hypomyelination in adenylosuccinate lyase deficiency
Samar Kayfan1, Rana M Yazdani1, Samantha Castillo1
1Department of Radiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
Abstract:
Adenylosuccinate lyase deficiency is a rare genetic disorder with few reported cases in the United States. Magnetic resonance imaging findings in the brain include hypomyelination and low generalized parenchymal volume. Presented here is a case in a 3-month-old male who presented with hypotonia and seizures and was subsequently diagnosed with adenylosuccinate lyase deficiency. Given the rarity of this diagnosis, findings demonstrated in this case may prompt ordering physicians to broaden their approach to genetic testing in the setting of hypomyelination. Comparison is also made to more common hypomyelinating leukodystrophies.
Insights
Adenylosuccinate lyase deficiency is a rare genetic disorder causing brain hypomyelination. This case highlights the importance of considering this diagnosis in infants with hypotonia and seizures, even with common leukodystrophy presentations.
Area of Science:
- Neurogenetics
- Metabolic Disorders
- Pediatric Neurology
Background:
- Adenylosuccinate lyase deficiency (ADCL) is an ultra-rare autosomal recessive metabolic disorder.
- It results from mutations in the ASL gene, impacting purine biosynthesis.
- Clinical presentation often includes neurological deficits, with few cases reported globally.
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