A rare variant of USP9X associated with female-restricted X-linked syndromic intellectual disability

USP9X gene variations have been associated with the rare syndrome female-restricted X-linked syndromic intellectual disability (MRXS99F). Loss-of-function mutations in USP9X gene is primarily characterized by development delay, speech and motor disorders, special facial features and multiple congenital malformations.

We reported a newborn who presented with special facial features and developmental delay. We performed whole-genome sequencing and identified a rare novel heterozygous USP9X variant, c.4071-4077delCTTTACT (p.Thr1359Trpfs*19). To date, only seven USP9X variants in infants have been reported. Affected individuals typically exhibit a spectrum of congenital anomalies, including craniofacial dysmorphisms (such as hypertelorism, flat nasal bridge, and cleft palate), skeletal abnormalities (such as limb shortening, scoliosis, and rib anomalies), and neurological deficits (including severe intellectual disability, epilepsy, and motor delay). The radio logical tests revealed structural anomalies, such as corpus callosum agenesis and congenital hip dysplasia.

This study expands the genotypic and clinical phenotypic spectrum of USP9X-related MRXS99F and reinforces the utility of whole-genome sequencing in early diagnosis and genetic counseling.