tSNP-based identification of allelic loss of gene expression in a patient with a balanced chromosomal rearrangement

Current affairs in quantitative targeted proteomics: multiple reaction monitoring-mass spectrometry

Quantitative targeted proteomics has recently taken front stage in the proteomics community. Centered on multiple reaction monitoring-mass spectrometry (MRM-MS) methodologies, quantitative targeted proteomics is being used in the verification of global proteomics data, the discovery of lower abundance proteins, protein post-translational modifications, discrimination of select highly homologous protein isoforms and as the final step in biomarker discovery. An older methodology utilized with small molecule analysis, the proteomics community is making great technological strides to develop MRM-MS as the next method to address previously challenging issues in global proteomics experimentation, namely dynamic range, identification of post-translational modifications, sensitivity and selectivity of measurement which will undoubtedly further biomedical knowledge. This brief review will provide a general introduction of MRM-MS and highlight its novel application for targeted quantitative proteomic experimentations.

Genetics of autosomal recessive non-syndromic mental retardation: recent advances

The identification of the genes mutated in autosomal recessive non-syndromic mental retardation (ARNSMR) has been very active recently. This report presents an overview of the current knowledge on clinical data in ARNSMR and progress in research. To date, 12 ARNSMR loci have been mapped, and three genes identified. Mutations in known ARNSMR genes have been detected so far in only a small number of families; their contribution to mental retardation in the general population might be limited. The ARNSMR-causing genes belong to different protein families, including serine proteases, Adenosine 5'-triphosphate-dependent Lon proteases and calcium-regulated transcriptional repressors. All of the mutations in the ARNSMR-causing genes are protein truncating, indicating a putative severe loss-of-function effect. The future objective will be the development of diagnostic kits for molecular diagnosis in mentally retarded individuals in order to offer at-risk families pre-natal diagnosis to detect affected offspring.