1
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Chopra M, Savatt JM, Bingaman TI, Good ME, Morgan A, Cooney C, Rossel AM, VanHoute B, Cordova I, Mahida S, Lanzotti V, Baldridge D, Gurnett CA, Piven J, Hazlett H, Pomeroy SL, Sahin M, Payne PRO, Riggs ER, Constantino JN. Clinical variants paired with phenotype: A rich resource for brain gene curation. Genet Med 2024; 26:101035. [PMID: 38059438 PMCID: PMC10939875 DOI: 10.1016/j.gim.2023.101035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Clinically ascertained variants are under-utilized in neurodevelopmental disorder research. We established the Brain Gene Registry (BGR) to coregister clinically identified variants in putative brain genes with participant phenotypes. Here, we report 179 genetic variants in the first 179 BGR registrants and analyze the proportion that were novel to ClinVar at the time of entry and those that were absent in other disease databases. METHODS From 10 academically affiliated institutions, 179 individuals with 179 variants were enrolled into the BGR. Variants were cross-referenced for previous presence in ClinVar and for presence in 6 other genetic databases. RESULTS Of 179 variants in 76 genes, 76 (42.5%) were novel to ClinVar, and 62 (34.6%) were absent from all databases analyzed. Of the 103 variants present in ClinVar, 37 (35.9%) were uncertain (ClinVar aggregate classification of variant of uncertain significance or conflicting classifications). For 5 variants, the aggregate ClinVar classification was inconsistent with the interpretation from the BGR site-provided classification. CONCLUSION A significant proportion of clinical variants that are novel or uncertain are not shared, limiting the evidence base for new gene-disease relationships. Registration of paired clinical genetic test results with phenotype has the potential to advance knowledge of the relationships between genes and neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Chopra
- Rosamund Stone Zander Translational Neuroscience Center, Boston Children's Hospital; Boston, MA; Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital Intellectual Disability and Research Center; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA.
| | - Juliann M Savatt
- Autism and Developmental Medicine Institute, Geisinger, Danville, PA
| | - Taylor I Bingaman
- Autism and Developmental Medicine Institute, Geisinger, Danville, PA
| | - Molly E Good
- Autism and Developmental Medicine Institute, Geisinger, Danville, PA
| | - Alexis Morgan
- Autism and Developmental Medicine Institute, Geisinger, Danville, PA
| | - Caitlin Cooney
- Autism and Developmental Medicine Institute, Geisinger, Danville, PA
| | - Allison M Rossel
- Autism and Developmental Medicine Institute, Geisinger, Danville, PA
| | - Bryanna VanHoute
- Autism and Developmental Medicine Institute, Geisinger, Danville, PA
| | - Ineke Cordova
- Autism and Developmental Medicine Institute, Geisinger, Danville, PA
| | - Sonal Mahida
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital Intellectual Disability and Research Center; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA
| | - Virginia Lanzotti
- Washington University School of Medicine Intellectual and Developmental Disability Research Center, St. Louis, MO
| | - Dustin Baldridge
- Washington University School of Medicine Intellectual and Developmental Disability Research Center, St. Louis, MO
| | - Christina A Gurnett
- Washington University School of Medicine Intellectual and Developmental Disability Research Center, St. Louis, MO
| | - Joseph Piven
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina Intellectual and Developmental Disability Research Center, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Heather Hazlett
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina Intellectual and Developmental Disability Research Center, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Scott L Pomeroy
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital Intellectual Disability and Research Center; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA
| | - Mustafa Sahin
- Rosamund Stone Zander Translational Neuroscience Center, Boston Children's Hospital; Boston, MA; Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital Intellectual Disability and Research Center; Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA
| | - Philip R O Payne
- Institute for Informatics Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - Erin Rooney Riggs
- Autism and Developmental Medicine Institute, Geisinger, Danville, PA
| | - John N Constantino
- Division of Behavioural and Mental Health, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Departments of Psychiatry and Paediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
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2
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Cheung C, Berger SM, Ross M, Kramer T, Li Y, Andrews C, Dergham KR, Spitz E, Florido ME, Ahimaz P. Assessing management practices for variants of uncertain significance among genetic counselors in pediatrics. J Genet Couns 2024. [PMID: 38217320 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Increased utilization of genomic sequencing in pediatric medicine has increased the detection of variants of uncertain significance (VUS). Periodic VUS reinterpretation can clarify clinical significance and increase diagnostic yield, highlighting the importance of systematic VUS tracking and reinterpretation. There are currently no standardized guidelines or established best practices for VUS management, and our understanding of how genetic counselors (GCs) track and manage VUS results for pediatric patients is limited. In this exploratory study, GCs in pediatric clinics in North America were surveyed about their VUS management practices. A total of 124 responses were included in the analysis. The majority (n = 115, 92.7%) of GCs reported that VUS management workflows were at the discretion of each individual provider in their workplace. Approximately half (n = 65, 52%) kept track of patient VUS results over time, and GCs with lower patient volumes were more likely to do so (p = 0.04). While 95% (n = 114) of GCs had requested VUS reinterpretation at least once, only 5% (n = 6) requested it routinely. Most (n = 80, 86%) GCs notified patients when a VUS was reclassified, although methods of recontact differed when the reclassification was an upgrade versus a downgrade. GCs who asked patients to stay in touch through periodic recontact or follow-up appointments were more likely to request VUS reinterpretation (p = 0.01). The most frequently reported barriers to requesting reinterpretation regularly were patients being lost to follow-up (n = 39, 33.1%), insufficient bandwidth (n = 27, 22.9%), and lack of standardized guidelines (n = 25, 21.2%). GCs had consistent overall practices around VUS management around investigation, disclosure, reinterpretation, and recontact, but specific methods used differed and were at the discretion of each provider. These results showcase the current landscape of VUS management workflows in pediatrics and the challenges associated with adopting more uniform practices. The study findings can help inform future strategies to develop standardized guidelines surrounding VUS management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Cheung
- Genetic Counseling Graduate Program, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Clinical Trials Office, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sara M Berger
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Clinical Genetics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Meredith Ross
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Clinical Genetics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Tamar Kramer
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Clinical Genetics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Yuhuan Li
- Department of Biostatistics, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Carli Andrews
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Clinical Genetics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Katia R Dergham
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Clinical Genetics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Keck Graduate Insititute, Claremont, California, USA
| | - Elana Spitz
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Clinical Genetics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Hematology Oncology, University of Carlifornia, Los Angeles Health, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Michelle E Florido
- Genetic Counseling Graduate Program, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Genetics and Development, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Priyanka Ahimaz
- Genetic Counseling Graduate Program, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Clinical Genetics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
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3
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Sullivan JA, Spillmann RC, Schoch K, Walley N, Alkelai A, Stong N, Shea PR, Petrovski S, Jobanputra V, McConkie-Rosell A, Shashi V. The best of both worlds: Blending cutting-edge research with clinical processes for a productive exome clinic. Clin Genet 2024; 105:62-71. [PMID: 37853563 DOI: 10.1111/cge.14437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Genomic medicine has been transformed by next-generation sequencing (NGS), inclusive of exome sequencing (ES) and genome sequencing (GS). Currently, ES is offered widely in clinical settings, with a less prevalent alternative model consisting of hybrid programs that incorporate research ES along with clinical patient workflows. We were among the earliest to implement a hybrid ES clinic, have provided diagnoses to 45% of probands, and have identified several novel candidate genes. Our program is enabled by a cost-effective investment by the health system and is unique in encompassing all the processes that have been variably included in other hybrid/clinical programs. These include careful patient selection, utilization of a phenotype-agnostic bioinformatics pipeline followed by manual curation of variants and phenotype integration by clinicians, close collaborations between the clinicians and the bioinformatician, pursuit of interesting variants, communication of results to patients in categories that are predicated upon the certainty of a diagnosis, and tracking changes in results over time and the underlying mechanisms for such changes. Due to its effectiveness, scalability to GS and its resource efficiency, specific elements of our paradigm can be incorporated into existing clinical settings, or the entire hybrid model can be implemented within health systems that have genomic medicine programs, to provide NGS in a scientifically rigorous, yet pragmatic setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Sullivan
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Rebecca C Spillmann
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kelly Schoch
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Nicole Walley
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Anna Alkelai
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
- Regeneron Genetics Center, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, New York, USA
| | - Nicholas Stong
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
- Predictive Sciences, Bristol Myers Squibb, Summit, New Jersey, USA
| | - Patrick R Shea
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
- Genomics and Bioinformatics Analysis Resource, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Slavè Petrovski
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vaidehi Jobanputra
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Allyn McConkie-Rosell
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Vandana Shashi
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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4
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Hedgecoe A, Job K, Clarke A. Reflexive standardization and the resolution of uncertainty in the genomics clinic. SOCIAL STUDIES OF SCIENCE 2023; 53:358-378. [PMID: 36922706 PMCID: PMC7614615 DOI: 10.1177/03063127231154863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
In genomics, the clinical application of Next Generation Sequencing technologies (such as Whole Genome or Exome Sequencing) has attracted considerable attention from UK policymakers, interested in the benefits such technologies could bring the National Health Service. However, this boosterism plays little attention to the challenges raised by a kind of result known as a Variant of Uncertain Significance, or VUS, which require clinical geneticists and related colleagues to classify ambiguous genomic variants as 'benign' or 'pathogenic'. With a rigorous analysis based on data gathered at 290 clinical meetings over a two-year period, this paper presents the first ethnographic account of decision-making around NGS technology in a NHS clinical genomics service, broadening our understanding of the role formal criteria play in the classification of VUS. Drawing on Stefan Timmermans' concept of 'reflexive standardisation' to explore the way in which clinical genetics staff classify such variants this paper explores the application of a set of criteria drafted by the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics, highlighting the flexible way in which various resources - variant databases, computer programmes, the research literature - are drawn on to reach a decision. A crucial insight is how professionals' perception of, and trust in, the clinical practice at other genomics centres in the NHS, shapes their own application of criteria and the classification of a VUS as either benign or pathogenic.
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5
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Chang YT, Hong SY, Lin WD, Lin CH, Lin SS, Tsai FJ, Chou IC. Genetic Testing in Children with Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies: A Review of Advances in Epilepsy Genomics. CHILDREN 2023; 10:children10030556. [PMID: 36980114 PMCID: PMC10047509 DOI: 10.3390/children10030556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
Advances in disease-related gene discovery have led to tremendous innovations in the field of epilepsy genetics. Identification of genetic mutations that cause epileptic encephalopathies has opened new avenues for the development of targeted therapies. Clinical testing using extensive gene panels, exomes, and genomes is currently accessible and has resulted in higher rates of diagnosis and better comprehension of the disease mechanisms underlying the condition. Children with developmental disabilities have a higher risk of developing epilepsy. As our understanding of the mechanisms underlying encephalopathies and epilepsies improves, there may be greater potential to develop innovative therapies tailored to an individual’s genotype. This article provides an overview of the significant progress in epilepsy genomics in recent years, with a focus on developmental and epileptic encephalopathies in children. The aim of this review is to enhance comprehension of the clinical utilization of genetic testing in this particular patient population. The development of effective and precise therapeutic strategies for epileptic encephalopathies may be facilitated by a comprehensive understanding of their molecular pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Tzu Chang
- School of Post Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40447, Taiwan; (Y.-T.C.)
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, China Medical University Children’s Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
| | - Syuan-Yu Hong
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, China Medical University Children’s Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
| | - Wei-De Lin
- School of Post Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40447, Taiwan; (Y.-T.C.)
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Heng Lin
- Division of Pediatric Pulmonology, China Medical University Children’s Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Radiological Science, College of Medicine, China Medial University, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Shing Lin
- School of Post Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40447, Taiwan; (Y.-T.C.)
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, China Medical University Children’s Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
| | - Fuu-Jen Tsai
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
- Division of Genetics and Metabolism, China Medical University Children’s Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Genetics, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
- School of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
| | - I-Ching Chou
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, China Medical University Children’s Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-4-22052121
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6
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Abstract
Exome sequencing (ES) and genome sequencing (GS) have radically transformed the diagnostic approach to undiagnosed rare/ultrarare Mendelian diseases. Next-generation sequencing (NGS), the technology integral for ES, GS, and most large (100+) gene panels, has enabled previously unimaginable diagnoses, changes in medical management, new treatments, and accurate reproductive risk assessments for patients, as well as new disease gene discoveries. Yet, challenges remain, as most individuals remain undiagnosed with current NGS. Improved NGS technology has resulted in long-read sequencing, which may resolve diagnoses in some patients who do not obtain a diagnosis with current short-read ES and GS, but its effectiveness is unclear, and it is expensive. Other challenges that persist include the resolution of variants of uncertain significance, the urgent need for patients with ultrarare disorders to have access to therapeutics, the need for equity in patient access to NGS-based testing, and the study of ethical concerns. However, the outlook for undiagnosed disease resolution is bright, due to continual advancements in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Sullivan
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA;
| | - Kelly Schoch
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA;
| | - Rebecca C Spillmann
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA;
| | - Vandana Shashi
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA;
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7
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Fadeeva N, Khatkov I, Bodunova N, Knyazev O, Bordin D, Parfenov A, Nikolskaya K, Nikolaev S, Rumyantsev K, Polyakova V, Yanova T. Personalized Medicine for IBD Patients. BIONANOSCIENCE 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s12668-023-01067-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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8
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Sánchez-Luquez KY, Carpena MX, Karam SM, Tovo-Rodrigues L. The contribution of whole-exome sequencing to intellectual disability diagnosis and knowledge of underlying molecular mechanisms: A systematic review and meta-analysis. MUTATION RESEARCH. REVIEWS IN MUTATION RESEARCH 2022; 790:108428. [PMID: 35905832 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrrev.2022.108428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Whole-exome sequencing (WES) is useful for molecular diagnosis, family genetic counseling, and prognosis of intellectual disability (ID). However, ID molecular diagnosis ascertainment based on WES is highly dependent on de novo mutations (DNMs) and variants of uncertain significance (VUS). The quantification of DNM frequency in ID molecular diagnosis ascertainment and the biological mechanisms common to genes with VUS may provide objective information about WES use in ID diagnosis and etiology. We aimed to investigate and estimate the rate of ID molecular diagnostic assessment by WES, quantify the contribution of DNMs to this rate, and biologically and functionally characterize the genes whose mutations were identified through WES. A PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, BIREME, and PsycINFO systematic review and meta-analysis was performed, including studies published between 2010 and 2022. Thirty-seven articles with data on ID molecular diagnostic yield using the WES approach were included in the review. WES testing accounted for an overall diagnostic rate of 42% (Confidence interval (CI): 35-50%), while the estimate restricted to DNMs was 11% (CI: 6-18%). Genetic information on mutations and genes was extracted and split into two groups: (1) genes whose mutation was used for positive molecular diagnosis, and (2) genes whose mutation led to uncertain molecular diagnosis. After functional enrichment analysis, in addition to their expected roles in neurodevelopment, genes from the first group were enriched in epigenetic regulatory mechanisms, immune system regulation, and circadian rhythm control. Genes from uncertain diagnosis cases were enriched in the renin angiotensin pathway. Taken together, our results support WES as an important approach to the molecular diagnosis of ID. The results also indicated relevant pathways that may underlie the pathogenesis of ID with the renin-angiotensin pathway being suggested to be a potential pathway underlying the pathogenesis of ID.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marina Xavier Carpena
- Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil.
| | - Simone M Karam
- Postgraduate Program in Public Health, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil.
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9
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Ślęczkowska M, Almomani R, Marchi M, de Greef BTA, Sopacua M, Hoeijmakers JGJ, Lindsey P, Salvi E, Bönhof GJ, Ziegler D, Malik RA, Waxman SG, Lauria G, Faber CG, Smeets HJM, Gerrits MM. Peripheral Ion Channel Gene Screening in Painful- and Painless-Diabetic Neuropathy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137190. [PMID: 35806193 PMCID: PMC9266298 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain is common in diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DN), probably caused by pathogenic ion channel gene variants. Therefore, we performed molecular inversion probes-next generation sequencing of 5 transient receptor potential cation channels, 8 potassium channels and 2 calcium-activated chloride channel genes in 222 painful- and 304 painless-DN patients. Twelve painful-DN (5.4%) patients showed potentially pathogenic variants (five nonsense/frameshift, seven missense, one out-of-frame deletion) in ANO3 (n = 3), HCN1 (n = 1), KCNK18 (n = 2), TRPA1 (n = 3), TRPM8 (n = 3) and TRPV4 (n = 1) and fourteen painless-DN patients (4.6%-three nonsense/frameshift, nine missense, one out-of-frame deletion) in ANO1 (n = 1), KCNK18 (n = 3), KCNQ3 (n = 1), TRPA1 (n = 2), TRPM8 (n = 1), TRPV1 (n = 3) and TRPV4 (n = 3). Missense variants were present in both conditions, presumably with loss- or gain-of-functions. KCNK18 nonsense/frameshift variants were found in painless/painful-DN, making a causal role in pain less likely. Surprisingly, premature stop-codons with likely nonsense-mediated RNA-decay were more frequent in painful-DN. Although limited in number, painful-DN patients with ion channel gene variants reported higher maximal pain during the night and day. Moreover, painful-DN patients with TRP variants had abnormal thermal thresholds and more severe pain during the night and day. Our results suggest a role of ion channel gene variants in neuropathic pain, but functional validation is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena Ślęczkowska
- Department of Toxicogenomics, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands; (R.A.); (P.L.); (H.J.M.S.)
- School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Correspondence:
| | - Rowida Almomani
- Department of Toxicogenomics, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands; (R.A.); (P.L.); (H.J.M.S.)
- Department of Neurology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands; (B.T.A.d.G.); (M.S.); (J.G.J.H.); (C.G.F.)
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan
| | - Margherita Marchi
- Neuroalgology Unit, IRCCS Foundation “Carlo Besta” Neurological Institute, 20133 Milan, Italy; (M.M.); (E.S.); (G.L.)
| | - Bianca T. A. de Greef
- Department of Neurology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands; (B.T.A.d.G.); (M.S.); (J.G.J.H.); (C.G.F.)
| | - Maurice Sopacua
- Department of Neurology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands; (B.T.A.d.G.); (M.S.); (J.G.J.H.); (C.G.F.)
| | - Janneke G. J. Hoeijmakers
- Department of Neurology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands; (B.T.A.d.G.); (M.S.); (J.G.J.H.); (C.G.F.)
| | - Patrick Lindsey
- Department of Toxicogenomics, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands; (R.A.); (P.L.); (H.J.M.S.)
| | - Erika Salvi
- Neuroalgology Unit, IRCCS Foundation “Carlo Besta” Neurological Institute, 20133 Milan, Italy; (M.M.); (E.S.); (G.L.)
| | - Gidon J. Bönhof
- Institute for Clinical Diabetology, German Diabetes Center, Leibniz Center for Diabetes Research at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (G.J.B.); (D.Z.)
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Dan Ziegler
- Institute for Clinical Diabetology, German Diabetes Center, Leibniz Center for Diabetes Research at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (G.J.B.); (D.Z.)
| | - Rayaz A. Malik
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK;
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha P.O. Box 24144, Qatar
| | - Stephen G. Waxman
- Department of Neurology and Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA;
- Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, West Haven, CT 06516, USA
| | - Giuseppe Lauria
- Neuroalgology Unit, IRCCS Foundation “Carlo Besta” Neurological Institute, 20133 Milan, Italy; (M.M.); (E.S.); (G.L.)
| | - Catharina G. Faber
- Department of Neurology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands; (B.T.A.d.G.); (M.S.); (J.G.J.H.); (C.G.F.)
| | - Hubert J. M. Smeets
- Department of Toxicogenomics, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands; (R.A.); (P.L.); (H.J.M.S.)
- School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Monique M. Gerrits
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Centre, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands;
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10
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McConkie-Rosell A, Schoch K, Sullivan J, Spillmann RC, Cope H, Tan QKG, Palmer CGS, Hooper SR, Shashi V. Clinical application of a scale to assess genomic healthcare empowerment (GEmS): Process and illustrative case examples. J Genet Couns 2022; 31:59-70. [PMID: 34115423 PMCID: PMC8664895 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The Genome Empowerment Scale (GEmS), developed as a research tool, assesses perspectives of parents of children with undiagnosed disorders about to undergo exome or genome sequencing related to the process of empowerment. We defined genomic healthcare empowerment as follows: perceived ability to understand and seek new information related to the genomic sequencing, manage emotions related to the diagnostic process and outcomes, and utilize genomic sequencing information to the betterment of the individual/child and family. The GEmS consists of four scales, two are primarily emotion-focused (Meaning of a Diagnosis, and Emotional Management of the Process) and two are action-oriented (Seeking Information and Support, and Implications and Planning). The purpose of this research was to provide a strategy for interpreting results from the GEmS and present illustrative cases. These illustrations should serve to facilitate use of the GEmS in the clinical and research arena, particularly with respect to guiding genetic counseling processes for parents of children with undiagnosed conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allyn McConkie-Rosell
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kelly Schoch
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jennifer Sullivan
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Rebecca C. Spillmann
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Heidi Cope
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Queenie K.-G. Tan
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Christina G. S. Palmer
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Department of Human Genetics, Institute for Society and Genetics, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Stephen R. Hooper
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Vandana Shashi
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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11
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Barp A, Mosca L, Sansone VA. Facilitations and Hurdles of Genetic Testing in Neuromuscular Disorders. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11040701. [PMID: 33919863 PMCID: PMC8070835 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11040701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuromuscular disorders (NMDs) comprise a heterogeneous group of disorders that affect about one in every thousand individuals worldwide. The vast majority of NMDs has a genetic cause, with about 600 genes already identified. Application of genetic testing in NMDs can be useful for several reasons: correct diagnostic definition of a proband, extensive familial counselling to identify subjects at risk, and prenatal diagnosis to prevent the recurrence of the disease; furthermore, identification of specific genetic mutations still remains mandatory in some cases for clinical trial enrollment where new gene therapies are now approaching. Even though genetic analysis is catching on in the neuromuscular field, pitfalls and hurdles still remain and they should be taken into account by clinicians, as for example the use of next generation sequencing (NGS) where many single nucleotide variants of “unknown significance” can emerge, complicating the correct interpretation of genotype-phenotype relationship. Finally, when all efforts in terms of molecular analysis have been carried on, a portion of patients affected by NMDs still remain “not genetically defined”. In the present review we analyze the evolution of genetic techniques, from Sanger sequencing to NGS, and we discuss “facilitations and hurdles” of genetic testing which must always be balanced by clinicians, in order to ensure a correct diagnostic definition, but taking always into account the benefit that the patient could obtain especially in terms of “therapeutic offer”.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Barp
- The NEMO Clinical Center in Milan, Neurorehabilitation Unit, University of Milan, Piazza Ospedale Maggiore 3, 20162 Milano, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Lorena Mosca
- Medical Genetics Unit, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Piazza Ospedale Maggiore 3, 20162 Milano, Italy;
| | - Valeria Ada Sansone
- The NEMO Clinical Center in Milan, Neurorehabilitation Unit, University of Milan, Piazza Ospedale Maggiore 3, 20162 Milano, Italy;
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12
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Abstract
Neuromuscular disorders (NMDs) comprise a heterogeneous group of disorders that affect about one in every thousand individuals worldwide. The vast majority of NMDs has a genetic cause, with about 600 genes already identified. Application of genetic testing in NMDs can be useful for several reasons: correct diagnostic definition of a proband, extensive familial counselling to identify subjects at risk, and prenatal diagnosis to prevent the recurrence of the disease; furthermore, identification of specific genetic mutations still remains mandatory in some cases for clinical trial enrollment where new gene therapies are now approaching. Even though genetic analysis is catching on in the neuromuscular field, pitfalls and hurdles still remain and they should be taken into account by clinicians, as for example the use of next generation sequencing (NGS) where many single nucleotide variants of "unknown significance" can emerge, complicating the correct interpretation of genotype-phenotype relationship. Finally, when all efforts in terms of molecular analysis have been carried on, a portion of patients affected by NMDs still remain "not genetically defined". In the present review we analyze the evolution of genetic techniques, from Sanger sequencing to NGS, and we discuss "facilitations and hurdles" of genetic testing which must always be balanced by clinicians, in order to ensure a correct diagnostic definition, but taking always into account the benefit that the patient could obtain especially in terms of "therapeutic offer".
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Barp
- The NEMO Clinical Center in Milan, Neurorehabilitation Unit, University of Milan, Piazza Ospedale Maggiore 3, 20162 Milano, Italy
| | - Lorena Mosca
- Medical Genetics Unit, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Piazza Ospedale Maggiore 3, 20162 Milano, Italy
| | - Valeria Ada Sansone
- The NEMO Clinical Center in Milan, Neurorehabilitation Unit, University of Milan, Piazza Ospedale Maggiore 3, 20162 Milano, Italy
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13
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Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders are the most prevalent chronic medical conditions encountered in pediatric primary care. In addition to identifying appropriate descriptive diagnoses and guiding families to evidence-based treatments and supports, comprehensive care for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders includes a search for an underlying etiologic diagnosis, primarily through a genetic evaluation. Identification of an underlying genetic etiology can inform prognosis, clarify recurrence risk, shape clinical management, and direct patients and families to condition-specific resources and supports. Here we review the utility of genetic testing in patients with neurodevelopmental disorders and describe the three major testing modalities and their yields - chromosomal microarray, exome sequencing (with/without copy number variant calling), and FMR1 CGG repeat analysis for fragile X syndrome. Given the diagnostic yield of genetic testing and the potential for clinical and personal utility, there is consensus that genetic testing should be offered to all patients with global developmental delay, intellectual disability, and/or autism spectrum disorder. Despite this recommendation, data suggest that a minority of children with autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability have undergone genetic testing. To address this gap in care, we describe a structured but flexible approach to facilitate integration of genetic testing into clinical practice across pediatric specialties and discuss future considerations for genetic testing in neurodevelopmental disorders to prepare pediatric providers to care for patients with such diagnoses today and tomorrow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliann M. Savatt
- Autism & Developmental Medicine Institute, Geisinger, Danville, PA, United States
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14
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Schoch K, Esteves C, Bican A, Spillmann R, Cope H, McConkie-Rosell A, Walley N, Fernandez L, Kohler JN, Bonner D, Reuter C, Stong N, Mulvihill JJ, Novacic D, Wolfe L, Abdelbaki A, Toro C, Tifft C, Malicdan M, Gahl W, Liu P, Newman J, Goldstein DB, Hom J, Sampson J, Wheeler MT, Cogan J, Bernstein JA, Adams DR, McCray AT, Shashi V. Clinical sites of the Undiagnosed Diseases Network: unique contributions to genomic medicine and science. Genet Med 2021; 23:259-271. [PMID: 33093671 PMCID: PMC7867619 DOI: 10.1038/s41436-020-00984-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The NIH Undiagnosed Diseases Network (UDN) evaluates participants with disorders that have defied diagnosis, applying personalized clinical and genomic evaluations and innovative research. The clinical sites of the UDN are essential to advancing the UDN mission; this study assesses their contributions relative to standard clinical practices. METHODS We analyzed retrospective data from four UDN clinical sites, from July 2015 to September 2019, for diagnoses, new disease gene discoveries and the underlying investigative methods. RESULTS Of 791 evaluated individuals, 231 received 240 diagnoses and 17 new disease-gene associations were recognized. Straightforward diagnoses on UDN exome and genome sequencing occurred in 35% (84/240). We considered these tractable in standard clinical practice, although genome sequencing is not yet widely available clinically. The majority (156/240, 65%) required additional UDN-driven investigations, including 90 diagnoses that occurred after prior nondiagnostic exome sequencing and 45 diagnoses (19%) that were nongenetic. The UDN-driven investigations included complementary/supplementary phenotyping, innovative analyses of genomic variants, and collaborative science for functional assays and animal modeling. CONCLUSION Investigations driven by the clinical sites identified diagnostic and research paradigms that surpass standard diagnostic processes. The new diagnoses, disease gene discoveries, and delineation of novel disorders represent a model for genomic medicine and science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Schoch
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke Health, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Cecilia Esteves
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anna Bican
- Vanderbilt Center for Undiagnosed Disease, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Rebecca Spillmann
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke Health, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Heidi Cope
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke Health, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Allyn McConkie-Rosell
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke Health, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Nicole Walley
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke Health, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Liliana Fernandez
- Stanford Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jennefer N Kohler
- Stanford Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Devon Bonner
- Stanford Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Chloe Reuter
- Stanford Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Nicholas Stong
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - John J Mulvihill
- Division of Genomic Medicine, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, NIH Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Donna Novacic
- Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, NIH Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Lynne Wolfe
- Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, NIH Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ayat Abdelbaki
- Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, NIH Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Camilo Toro
- Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, NIH Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Cyndi Tifft
- Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, NIH Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Office of the Clinical Director, NHGRI, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - May Malicdan
- Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, NIH Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Medical Genetics Branch, NHGRI, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - William Gahl
- Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, NIH Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Medical Genetics Branch, NHGRI, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Pengfei Liu
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Baylor Genetics, Houston, TX, USA
| | - John Newman
- Vanderbilt Center for Undiagnosed Disease, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - David B Goldstein
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jason Hom
- Stanford Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jacinda Sampson
- Stanford Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Matthew T Wheeler
- Stanford Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Joy Cogan
- Vanderbilt Center for Undiagnosed Disease, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jonathan A Bernstein
- Stanford Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - David R Adams
- Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, NIH Office of the Director, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Office of the Clinical Director, NHGRI, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Alexa T McCray
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Vandana Shashi
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke Health, Durham, NC, USA.
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15
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Sullivan JA, Stong N, Baugh EH, McDonald MT, Takeuchi A, Shashi V. A pathogenic variant in the SETBP1 hotspot results in a forme-fruste Schinzel-Giedion syndrome. Am J Med Genet A 2020; 182:1947-1951. [PMID: 32445275 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.61630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 04/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Schinzel-Giedion syndrome (SGS; OMIM 269150) is an ultra-rare genetic disorder associated with a distinctive facial gestalt, congenital malformations, severe intellectual disability, and a progressive neurological course. The prognosis for SGS is poor, with survival beyond the first decade rare. Germline, de novo heterozygous variants in the SETBP1 gene cause SGS with the pathogenic variants associated with the SGS phenotype missense and confined to exon 4 of the gene, clustered in a four amino acid (12 bp) hotspot in the SKI homologous region of the SETBP1 protein. We report a patient with a de novo I871S variant within the SKI homologous region, which has been associated with the severe phenotype previously; but our patient has fewer features of SGS and a milder course. This is the first report of a forme-fruste phenotype in a patient with a pathogenic variant within the SGS hotspot on the SETBP1 gene and it highlights the importance of considering atypical clinical presentations in the context of severe ultra-rare genetic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Sullivan
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Nicholas Stong
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Evan H Baugh
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Marie T McDonald
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Akihito Takeuchi
- Department of Neonatology, Okayama Medical Center, National Hospital Organization, Okayama, Japan
| | - Vandana Shashi
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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16
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Schoch K, Tan QKG, Stong N, Deak KL, McConkie-Rosell A, McDonald MT, Goldstein DB, Jiang YH, Shashi V. Alternative transcripts in variant interpretation: the potential for missed diagnoses and misdiagnoses. Genet Med 2020; 22:1269-1275. [PMID: 32366967 PMCID: PMC7335342 DOI: 10.1038/s41436-020-0781-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Guidelines by professional organizations for assessing variant pathogenicity include the recommendation to utilize biologically relevant transcripts; however, there is variability in transcript selection by laboratories. METHODS We describe three patients whose genomic results were incorrect, because alternative transcripts and tissue expression patterns were not considered by the commercial laboratories. RESULTS In individual 1, a pathogenic coding variant in a brain-expressed isoform of CKDL5 was missed twice on sequencing, because the variant was intronic in the transcripts considered in analysis. In individual 2, a microdeletion affecting KMT2C was not reported on microarray, since deletions of proximal exons in this gene are seen in healthy individuals; however, this individual had a more distal deletion involving the brain-expressed KMT2C isoform, giving her a diagnosis of Kleefstra syndrome. Individual 3 was reported to have a pathogenic variant in exon 10 of OFD1 on exome, but had no typical features of the OFD1-related disorders. Since exon 10 is spliced from the more biologically relevant transcripts of OFD1, it was determined that he did not have an OFD1 disorder. CONCLUSION These examples illustrate the importance of considering alternative transcripts as a potential confounder when genetic results are negative or discordant with the phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Schoch
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Queenie K-G Tan
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Nicholas Stong
- Institute of Genomic Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kristen L Deak
- Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Allyn McConkie-Rosell
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Marie T McDonald
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - David B Goldstein
- Institute of Genomic Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yong-Hui Jiang
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Vandana Shashi
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
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17
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Elliott AM. Genetic Counseling and Genome Sequencing in Pediatric Rare Disease. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2020; 10:cshperspect.a036632. [PMID: 31501267 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a036632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Both genome sequencing (GS) and exome sequencing (ES) have proven to be revolutionary in the diagnosis of pediatric rare disease. The diagnostic potential and increasing affordability make GS and ES more accessible as a routine clinical test in some centers. Herein, I review aspects of rare disease in pediatrics associated with the use of genomic technologies with an emphasis on the benefits and limitations of both ES and GS, complexities of variant classification, and the importance of genetic counseling. Indications for testing, the role of genetic counselors in genomic test selection, and the diagnostic potential of ES and GS in various pediatric multisystem disorders are discussed. The neonatal population represents an important cohort in pediatric rare disease. Rapid ES and GS in critically ill neonates can have an immediate impact on medical management and present unique genetic counseling challenges. This work includes reviews of recommendations for genetic counseling for families considering genome-wide sequencing, and issues of access to genetic counseling that affect clinical use and will necessitate implementation of innovative methods such as online decision aids. Finally, this work will also review the challenges of having a child with a rare disease, the impact of results from ES and GS on these families, and the role of various support agencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison M Elliott
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia Investigator, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute and BC Women's Health Research Institute, and Provincial Medical Genetics Program, Vancouver, British Columbia V6H 3N1, Canada
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18
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Reuter CM, Kohler JN, Bonner D, Zastrow D, Fernandez L, Dries A, Marwaha S, Davidson J, Brokamp E, Herzog M, Hong J, Macnamara E, Rosenfeld JA, Schoch K, Spillmann R, Loscalzo J, Krier J, Stoler J, Sweetser D, Palmer CG, Phillips JA, Shashi V, Adams DA, Yang Y, Ashley EA, Fisher PG, Mulvihill JJ, Bernstein JA, Wheeler MT. Yield of whole exome sequencing in undiagnosed patients facing insurance coverage barriers to genetic testing. J Genet Couns 2019; 28:1107-1118. [PMID: 31478310 PMCID: PMC6901723 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2019] [Revised: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite growing evidence of diagnostic yield and clinical utility of whole exome sequencing (WES) in patients with undiagnosed diseases, there remain significant cost and reimbursement barriers limiting access to such testing. The diagnostic yield and resulting clinical actions of WES for patients who previously faced insurance coverage barriers have not yet been explored. METHODS We performed a retrospective descriptive analysis of clinical WES outcomes for patients facing insurance coverage barriers prior to clinical WES and who subsequently enrolled in the Undiagnosed Diseases Network (UDN). Clinical WES was completed as a result of participation in the UDN. Payer type, molecular diagnostic yield, and resulting clinical actions were evaluated. RESULTS Sixty-six patients in the UDN faced insurance coverage barriers to WES at the time of enrollment (67% public payer, 26% private payer). Forty-two of 66 (64%) received insurance denial for clinician-ordered WES, 19/66 (29%) had health insurance through a payer known not to cover WES, and 5/66 (8%) had previous payer denial of other genetic tests. Clinical WES results yielded a molecular diagnosis in 23 of 66 patients (35% [78% pediatric, 65% neurologic indication]). Molecular diagnosis resulted in clinical actions in 14 of 23 patients (61%). CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrate that a substantial proportion of patients who encountered insurance coverage barriers to WES had a clinically actionable molecular diagnosis, supporting the notion that WES has value as a covered benefit for patients who remain undiagnosed despite objective clinical findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe M. Reuter
- Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Jennefer N. Kohler
- Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Devon Bonner
- Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Diane Zastrow
- Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Liliana Fernandez
- Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Annika Dries
- Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Shruti Marwaha
- Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Jean Davidson
- Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Elly Brokamp
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Matthew Herzog
- Department of Human Genetics, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Joyce Hong
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Ellen Macnamara
- Undiagnosed Diseases Program, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Jill A. Rosenfeld
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Kelly Schoch
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | - Rebecca Spillmann
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | | | - Joseph Loscalzo
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Joel Krier
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Joan Stoler
- Division of Genetics, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - David Sweetser
- Division of Medical Genetics and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Christina G.S. Palmer
- Department of Human Genetics, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
- Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
- Institute for Society & Genetics, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - John A Phillips
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Vandana Shashi
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | - David A. Adams
- Undiagnosed Diseases Program, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Yaping Yang
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Euan A. Ashley
- Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Paul G. Fisher
- Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - John J. Mulvihill
- Division of Genomic Medicine, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, MD
| | - Jonathan A. Bernstein
- Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Matthew T. Wheeler
- Center for Undiagnosed Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
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19
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McConkie-Rosell A, Schoch K, Sullivan J, Cope H, Spillmann R, Palmer CGS, Pena L, Jiang YH, Daniels N, Walley N, Tan KG, Hooper SR, Shashi V. The genome empowerment scale: An assessment of parental empowerment in families with undiagnosed disease. Clin Genet 2019; 96:521-531. [PMID: 31448412 DOI: 10.1111/cge.13635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
While genomic sequencing (ES/GS) has the potential to diagnose children with difficult to diagnose phenotypes, the goal should be not only a diagnosis, but also to empower parents to seek next steps for their children and to emotionally manage the outcome, whether or not a diagnosis is secured. To help achieve this goal, objective measures are needed to assess the process of parental empowerment related to genome sequencing. We present the validity and reliability of the Genome Empowerment Scale (GEmS), developed using a healthcare empowerment theoretical model. To evaluate its psychometric properties, 158 parents of 117 children with an undiagnosed condition undergoing genomic sequencing completed the GEmS, measures for criterion validity and for depression and anxiety. Factor analysis resulted in a four factor solution: (a) meaning of a diagnosis; (b) emotional management of the process; (c) seeking information and support and (d) implications and planning. Reliability and validity analyses show that the GEmS has good psychometric properties. The inter-relationships among the factors revealed a profile that may identify parents at risk for a poorer outcome who may benefit from targeted genetic counseling. The GEmS, an objective measure of parental genomic empowerment, can be utilized for future research and translational applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allyn McConkie-Rosell
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Kelly Schoch
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Jennifer Sullivan
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Heidi Cope
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Rebecca Spillmann
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Christina G S Palmer
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, UCLA Semel Institute, Los Angeles, California
| | - Loren Pena
- Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati School of Medicine
| | - Yong-Hui Jiang
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Nicole Daniels
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Nicole Walley
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Khoon G Tan
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
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- Undiagnosed Diseases Network, NIH Common Fund, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Stephen R Hooper
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Vandana Shashi
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
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20
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Krenn M, Tomschik M, Rath J, Cetin H, Grisold A, Zulehner G, Milenkovic I, Stogmann E, Zimprich A, Strom TM, Meitinger T, Wagner M, Zimprich F. Genotype-guided diagnostic reassessment after exome sequencing in neuromuscular disorders: experiences with a two-step approach. Eur J Neurol 2019; 27:51-61. [PMID: 31407473 PMCID: PMC6916592 DOI: 10.1111/ene.14033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Background and purpose Next‐generation sequencing has greatly improved the diagnostic success rates for genetic neuromuscular disorders (NMDs). Nevertheless, most patients still remain undiagnosed, and there is a need to maximize the diagnostic yield. Methods A retrospective study was conducted on 72 patients with NMDs who underwent exome sequencing (ES), partly followed by genotype‐guided diagnostic reassessment and secondary investigations. The diagnostic yields that would have been achieved by appropriately chosen narrow and comprehensive gene panels were also analysed. Results The initial diagnostic yield of ES was 30.6% (n = 22/72 patients). In an additional 15.3% of patients (n = 11/72) ES results were of unknown clinical significance. After genotype‐guided diagnostic reassessment and complementary investigations, the yield was increased to 37.5% (n = 27/72). Compared to ES, targeted gene panels (<25 kilobases) reached a diagnostic yield of 22.2% (n = 16/72), whereas comprehensive gene panels achieved 34.7% (n = 25/72). Conclusion Exome sequencing allows the detection of pathogenic variants missed by (narrowly) targeted gene panel approaches. Diagnostic reassessment after genetic testing further enhances the diagnostic outcomes for NMDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Krenn
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Institute of Human Genetics, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - M Tomschik
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - J Rath
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - H Cetin
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - A Grisold
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - G Zulehner
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - I Milenkovic
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - E Stogmann
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - A Zimprich
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - T M Strom
- Institute of Human Genetics, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany.,Institute of Human Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - T Meitinger
- Institute of Human Genetics, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany.,Institute of Human Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - M Wagner
- Institute of Human Genetics, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany.,Institute of Human Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany.,Institute of Neurogenomics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - F Zimprich
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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21
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Stanwyck LK, Place EM, Comander J, Huckfeldt RM, Sobrin L. Predictive value of genetic testing for inherited retinal diseases in patients with suspected atypical autoimmune retinopathy. Am J Ophthalmol Case Rep 2019; 15:100461. [PMID: 31193260 PMCID: PMC6523031 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajoc.2019.100461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Revised: 03/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The clinical features of autoimmune retinopathy (AIR) can resemble and be difficult to differentiate from inherited retinal degenerations (IRDs). Misdiagnosis of an IRD as AIR causes unnecessary treatment with immunosuppressive agents. The purpose of this study is to calculate the predictive value of genetic testing for IRDs in patients with suspected AIR and provide clinical examples where genetic testing has been useful. Methods We identified patients seen at MEEI between April 2013 and January 2017 for whom the differentiation of AIR vs. IRDs was difficult based on clinical assessment alone. All patients had some atypical features for AIR, but tested positive for anti-retinal antibodies. Within this group, we identified six patients who had genetic testing for IRDs with the Genetic Eye Disease panel for retinal genes (GEDi-R). We calculated the positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of genetic testing in a population with approximately equal numbers of IRD and AIR patients. Results Six patients had clinical features that made distinguishing between IRDs and AIR on a clinical basis difficult and were sent for genetic testing: four women and two men with a mean age of 59.5 years. In two of these six patients, genetic diagnoses were made based upon the identification of known pathogenic variants in the common IRD genes USH2A and RHO. Two patients had variants of unknown significance within genes associated with IRDs, and the other two had no relevant genetic findings. Given the 60% sensitivity and 3% false positive rate for GEDi-R testing and assuming a 50% pre-test probability of having an IRD, the PPV for GEDi-R for detecting IRD is 95.2% and the NPV is 70.8%. Conclusions and Importance In patients for whom the differential diagnosis of AIR and IRDs is unclear based on clinical information, genetic testing can be a valuable tool when it identifies an IRD, sparing the patient unnecessary immunosuppressive treatment. However, the test has a low NPV so a negative genetic testing result does not confidently exclude IRD as the true diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn K Stanwyck
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Emily M Place
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jason Comander
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rachel M Huckfeldt
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lucia Sobrin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA, USA
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22
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Li X, Nusbaum R, Smith-Hicks C, Jamal L, Dixon S, Mahida S. Caregivers' perception of and experience with variants of uncertain significance from whole exome sequencing for children with undiagnosed conditions. J Genet Couns 2019; 28:304-312. [PMID: 30680845 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Despite its promising diagnostic yield, whole exome sequencing (WES) frequently introduces variant(s) of uncertain significance (VUS), which have been speculated to cause parental stress and anxiety. This study aimed to explore the psychosocial impact of receiving a VUS from pediatric WES on caregivers and to identify implications for clinical practice. Fourteen telephone interviews were conducted with parents or legal guardians who received VUS results from their child's WES to assess their understanding of the result, affective responses, perceived impact, and adaptation. Our content analysis showed that most participants had a good understanding of the purpose of the test and the majority of them recalled the result category. Most participants deemed the result had no impact thus far on their perception of their child's condition. However, one participant reported feelings of fear related to the VUS. Most participants experienced a range of emotions from receiving the result. The majority of participants reported that this result did not significantly alter their child's care or their ability to take care of their child, and three participants reported empowerment. Additionally, several participants expressed an interest in research studies and peer support groups dedicated to families with a VUS identified on WES. Our study elicited new information about the psychosocial impact of receiving a VUS from WES. This insight may help to guide pre- and post-WES counseling in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Li
- Master's in Genetic Counseling Training Program, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Rachel Nusbaum
- Master's in Genetic Counseling Training Program, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | - Leila Jamal
- National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Shannan Dixon
- Master's in Genetic Counseling Training Program, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Sonal Mahida
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
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23
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Wang X, Shen X, Fang F, Ding CH, Zhang H, Cao ZH, An DY. Phenotype-Driven Virtual Panel Is an Effective Method to Analyze WES Data of Neurological Disease. Front Pharmacol 2019; 9:1529. [PMID: 30687093 PMCID: PMC6333749 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.01529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) is an effective diagnostic method for complicated and multi-system involved rare diseases. However, annotation and analysis of the WES result, especially for single case analysis still remain a challenge. Here, we introduce a method called phenotype-driven designing "virtual panel" to simplify the procedure and assess the diagnostic rate of this method. Methods: WES was performed in samples of 30 patients, core phenotypes of probands were then extracted and inputted into an in-house software, "Mingjian" to calculate and generate associated gene list of a virtual panel. Mingjian is a self-updating genetic disease computer supportive diagnostic system that based on the databases of HPO, OMIM, HGMD. The virtual panel that generated by Mingjian system was then used to filter and annotate candidate mutations. Sanger sequencing and co-segregation analysis among the family were then used to confirm the filtered mutants. Result: We first used phenotype-driven designing "virtual panel" to analyze the WES data of a patient whose core phenotypes are ataxia, seizures, esotropia, puberty and gonadal disorders, and global developmental delay. Two mutations, c.430T > C and c.640G > C in PMM2 were identified by this method. This result was also confirmed by Sanger sequencing among the family. The same analysing method was then used in the annotation of WES data of other 29 neurological rare disease patients. The diagnostic rate was 65.52%, which is significantly higher than the diagnostic rate before. Conclusion: Phenotype-driven designing virtual panel could achieve low-cost individualized analysis. This method may decrease the time-cost of annotation, increase the diagnostic efficiency and the diagnostic rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Wang
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Children’s Hospital, National Centre for Children’s Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | | | - Fang Fang
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Children’s Hospital, National Centre for Children’s Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chang-Hong Ding
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Children’s Hospital, National Centre for Children’s Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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24
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Smith HS, Swint JM, Lalani SR, Yamal JM, de Oliveira Otto MC, Castellanos S, Taylor A, Lee BH, Russell HV. Clinical Application of Genome and Exome Sequencing as a Diagnostic Tool for Pediatric Patients: a Scoping Review of the Literature. Genet Med 2018; 21:3-16. [PMID: 29760485 DOI: 10.1038/s41436-018-0024-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Availability of clinical genomic sequencing (CGS) has generated questions about the value of genome and exome sequencing as a diagnostic tool. Analysis of reported CGS application can inform uptake and direct further research. This scoping literature review aims to synthesize evidence on the clinical and economic impact of CGS. METHODS PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane were searched for peer-reviewed articles published between 2009 and 2017 on diagnostic CGS for infant and pediatric patients. Articles were classified according to sample size and whether economic evaluation was a primary research objective. Data on patient characteristics, clinical setting, and outcomes were extracted and narratively synthesized. RESULTS Of 171 included articles, 131 were case reports, 40 were aggregate analyses, and 4 had a primary economic evaluation aim. Diagnostic yield was the only consistently reported outcome. Median diagnostic yield in aggregate analyses was 33.2% but varied by broad clinical categories and test type. CONCLUSION Reported CGS use has rapidly increased and spans diverse clinical settings and patient phenotypes. Economic evaluations support the cost-saving potential of diagnostic CGS. Multidisciplinary implementation research, including more robust outcome measurement and economic evaluation, is needed to demonstrate clinical utility and cost-effectiveness of CGS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadley Stevens Smith
- Baylor College of Medicine, The University of Texas School of Public Health, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - J Michael Swint
- The University of Texas School of Public Health, The Center for Clinical Research and Evidence-Based Medicine, The University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Seema R Lalani
- Baylor College of Medicine, Baylor Genetics Laboratory, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jose-Miguel Yamal
- The University of Texas School of Public Health, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | | | - Amy Taylor
- Texas Medical Center Library, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Heidi V Russell
- Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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25
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Helbig I. Commentary: The genetic architecture of the epilepsies, as told by 8500 gene panels. Epilepsia 2018; 59:1072-1073. [DOI: 10.1111/epi.14075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ingo Helbig
- Division of Neurology The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Philadelphia PA USA
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26
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Wynn J, Ottman R, Duong J, Wilson AL, Ahimaz P, Martinez J, Rabin R, Rosen E, Webster R, Au C, Cho MT, Egan C, Guzman E, Primiano M, Shaw JE, Sisson R, Klitzman RL, Appelbaum PS, Lichter-Konecki U, Anyane-Yeboa K, Iglesias A, Chung WK. Diagnostic exome sequencing in children: A survey of parental understanding, experience and psychological impact. Clin Genet 2018; 93:1039-1048. [PMID: 29266212 DOI: 10.1111/cge.13200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2017] [Revised: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Clinical exome sequencing (CES) is increasingly being used as an effective diagnostic tool in the field of pediatric genetics. We sought to evaluate the parental experience, understanding and psychological impact of CES by conducting a survey study of English-speaking parents of children who had diagnostic CES. Parents of 192 unique patients participated. The parent's interpretation of the child's result agreed with the clinician's interpretation in 79% of cases, with more frequent discordance when the clinician's interpretation was uncertain. The majority (79%) reported no regret with the decision to have CES. Most (65%) reported complete satisfaction with the genetic counseling experience, and satisfaction was positively associated with years of genetic counselor (GC) experience. The psychological impact of CES was greatest for parents of children with positive results and for parents with anxiety or depression. The results of this study are important for helping clinicians to prepare families for the possible results and variable psychological impact of CES. The frequency of parental misinterpretation of test results indicates the need for additional clarity in the communication of results. Finally, while the majority of patients were satisfied with their genetic counseling, satisfaction was lower for new GCs, suggesting a need for targeted GC training for genomic testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Wynn
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - R Ottman
- G.H. Sergievsky Center and Departments of Epidemiology and Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center and NY State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York
| | - J Duong
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - A L Wilson
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - P Ahimaz
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - J Martinez
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - R Rabin
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Long Island University - Post Campus, Brookville, New York
| | - E Rosen
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Long Island University - Post Campus, Brookville, New York
| | - R Webster
- Columbia University Medical School, New York, New York
| | - C Au
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - M T Cho
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University, New York, New York.,GeneDx, Gaithersburg, Maryland
| | - C Egan
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - E Guzman
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - M Primiano
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - J E Shaw
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - R Sisson
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - R L Klitzman
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center and NY State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York
| | - P S Appelbaum
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center and NY State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York
| | - U Lichter-Konecki
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - K Anyane-Yeboa
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - A Iglesias
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - W K Chung
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York.,Department of Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
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27
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Abstract
Technologies such as next-generation sequencing and chromosomal microarray have advanced the understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of a variety of renal disorders. Genetic findings are increasingly used to inform the clinical management of many nephropathies, enabling targeted disease surveillance, choice of therapy, and family counselling. Genetic analysis has excellent diagnostic utility in paediatric nephrology, as illustrated by sequencing studies of patients with congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract and steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome. Although additional investigation is needed, pilot studies suggest that genetic testing can also provide similar diagnostic insight among adult patients. Reaching a genetic diagnosis first involves choosing the appropriate testing modality, as guided by the clinical presentation of the patient and the number of potential genes associated with the suspected nephropathy. Genome-wide sequencing increases diagnostic sensitivity relative to targeted panels, but holds the challenges of identifying causal variants in the vast amount of data generated and interpreting secondary findings. In order to realize the promise of genomic medicine for kidney disease, many technical, logistical, and ethical questions that accompany the implementation of genetic testing in nephrology must be addressed. The creation of evidence-based guidelines for the utilization and implementation of genetic testing in nephrology will help to translate genetic knowledge into improved clinical outcomes for patients with kidney disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily E Groopman
- Division of Nephrology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, 1150 Saint Nicholas Avenue, Russ Berrie Pavilion #412C, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Hila Milo Rasouly
- Division of Nephrology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, 1150 Saint Nicholas Avenue, Russ Berrie Pavilion #412C, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Ali G Gharavi
- Division of Nephrology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, 1150 Saint Nicholas Avenue, Russ Berrie Pavilion #412C, New York, New York 10032, USA
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28
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Dragojlovic N, Elliott AM, Adam S, van Karnebeek C, Lehman A, Mwenifumbo JC, Nelson TN, du Souich C, Friedman JM, Lynd LD. The cost and diagnostic yield of exome sequencing for children with suspected genetic disorders: a benchmarking study. Genet Med 2018; 20:1013-1021. [PMID: 29300375 DOI: 10.1038/gim.2017.226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to generate benchmark estimates for the cost, diagnostic yield, and cost per positive diagnosis of diagnostic exome sequencing (ES) in heterogeneous pediatric patient populations and to illustrate how the design of an ES service can influence its cost and yield. METHODS A literature review and Monte Carlo simulations were used to generate benchmark estimates for singleton and trio ES. A cost model for the Clinical Assessment of the Utility of Sequencing and Evaluation as a Service (CAUSES) study, which is testing a proposed delivery model for diagnostic ES in British Columbia, is used to illustrate the potential effects of changing the service design. RESULTS The benchmark diagnostic yield was 34.3% (95% confidence interval (CI): 23.2-46.5) for trio ES and 26.5% (95% CI: 12.9-42.9) for singleton ES. The benchmark cost of delivery was C$6,437 (95% CI: $5,305-$7,704) in 2016 Canadian dollars (US$4,859; 4,391€) for trio ES and C$2,576 (95% CI: $1,993-$3,270) (US$1,944; 1,757€) for singleton ES. Scenario models for CAUSES suggest that alternative service designs could reduce costs but might lead to a higher cost per diagnosis due to lower yields. CONCLUSION Broad conclusions about the cost-effectiveness of ES should be drawn with caution when relying on studies that use cost or yield assumptions that lie at the extremes of the benchmark ranges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick Dragojlovic
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (CORE), Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alison M Elliott
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Shelin Adam
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Clara van Karnebeek
- Department of Pediatrics, Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Emma Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anna Lehman
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jill C Mwenifumbo
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Tanya N Nelson
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, BC Children's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Christèle du Souich
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jan M Friedman
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Larry D Lynd
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (CORE), Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. .,Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcomes Sciences, Providence Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
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29
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Stivers T, Timmermans S. The Actionability of Exome sequencing testing results. SOCIOLOGY OF HEALTH & ILLNESS 2017; 39:1542-1556. [PMID: 29148115 DOI: 10.1111/1467-9566.12614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Genomic tests such as exome sequencing have recently become an option for diagnosing patients. The tests allow clinical geneticists to sequence the majority of patients' disease causing genetic variants. As a new technology, exome sequencing confronts the question of what the benefit is of this increased genetic information. Against a narrow perspective of clinical utility that emphasises tangible improvements in a patient's disease management, professional organisations have argued that genomic sequencing should be considered beneficial if it helps families and society. Based on video-recorded observations of the return of exome sequencing results to parents of a child with disabilities in the clinic and in-depth interviews with these parents, we examine how genomic test results become actionable in the clinical encounter. We find that parents and clinicians marshal exome results beyond biomedical diagnostic and management goals to address questions about guilt for causing the disabilities and to secure access to disability-related services. We argue that genomic actionability rests on the interaction between the biological characteristics of genetic results and the predicaments facing parents of children with disabilities.
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30
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Adam S, Friedman JM. Controversy and debate on clinical genomics sequencing-paper 2: clinical genome-wide sequencing: don't throw out the baby with the bathwater! J Clin Epidemiol 2017; 92:7-10. [PMID: 28916491 DOI: 10.1016/j.jclinepi.2017.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Revised: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 09/30/2022]
Abstract
Genome-wide (exome or whole genome) sequencing with appropriate genetic counseling should be considered for any patient with a suspected Mendelian disease that has not been identified by conventional testing. Clinical genome-wide sequencing provides a powerful and effective means of identifying specific genetic causes of serious disease and improving clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelin Adam
- Department of Medical Genetics, Children and Women's Hospital, University of British Columbia, 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, British Columbia V6H 3V4, Canada.
| | - Jan M Friedman
- Department of Medical Genetics, Children and Women's Hospital, University of British Columbia, 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, British Columbia V6H 3V4, Canada
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31
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Macklin S, Laney D, Lisi E, Atherton A, Smith E. The Psychosocial Impact of Carrying a Debated Variant in the GLA Gene. J Genet Couns 2017; 27:217-224. [DOI: 10.1007/s10897-017-0139-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2016] [Accepted: 07/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Baldridge D, Heeley J, Vineyard M, Manwaring L, Toler TL, Fassi E, Fiala E, Brown S, Goss CW, Willing M, Grange DK, Kozel BA, Shinawi M. The Exome Clinic and the role of medical genetics expertise in the interpretation of exome sequencing results. Genet Med 2017; 19:1040-1048. [PMID: 28252636 PMCID: PMC5581723 DOI: 10.1038/gim.2016.224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Evaluation of the clinician’s role in optimal interpretation of clinical exome sequencing (ES) results. Methods Retrospective chart review of the first 155 patients who underwent clinical ES in our Exome Clinic and direct interaction with the ordering geneticist to evaluate the process of interpretation of results. Results The most common primary indication was neurodevelopmental problems (~66%), followed by multiple congenital anomalies (~10%). The overall diagnostic yield was 36% based on sequencing data. After assessment by the medical geneticist, incorporation of detailed phenotypic and molecular data, and utilization of additional diagnostic modalities, the final diagnostic yield was increased to 43%. Seven patients of our cohort were included in initial case series that described novel genetic syndromes, and 23% of patients were involved in subsequent research studies directly related to their results or involved in efforts to move beyond clinical ES for diagnosis. The clinical management was directly altered due to the ES findings in 12% of definitively diagnosed cases. Conclusions Our results emphasize the usefulness of ES, demonstrate the significant role of the medical geneticist in the diagnostic process of patients undergoing ES, and illustrate the benefits of post-analytical diagnostic work-up in solving the “diagnostic odyssey.”
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin Baldridge
- Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Jennifer Heeley
- Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.,Current affiliation: Mercy Clinic-Kids Genetics, Mercy Children's Hospital St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Marisa Vineyard
- Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Linda Manwaring
- Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Tomi L Toler
- Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Emily Fassi
- Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Elise Fiala
- Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Sarah Brown
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Charles W Goss
- Division of Biostatistics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Marcia Willing
- Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Dorothy K Grange
- Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Beth A Kozel
- Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.,Current affiliation: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Marwan Shinawi
- Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Friedman JM, Cornel MC, Goldenberg AJ, Lister KJ, Sénécal K, Vears DF. Genomic newborn screening: public health policy considerations and recommendations. BMC Med Genomics 2017; 10:9. [PMID: 28222731 PMCID: PMC5320805 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-017-0247-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Accepted: 02/14/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of genome-wide (whole genome or exome) sequencing for population-based newborn screening presents an opportunity to detect and treat or prevent many more serious early-onset health conditions than is possible today. METHODS The Paediatric Task Team of the Global Alliance for Genomics and Health's Regulatory and Ethics Working Group reviewed current understanding and concerns regarding the use of genomic technologies for population-based newborn screening and developed, by consensus, eight recommendations for clinicians, clinical laboratory scientists, and policy makers. RESULTS Before genome-wide sequencing can be implemented in newborn screening programs, its clinical utility and cost-effectiveness must be demonstrated, and the ability to distinguish disease-causing and benign variants of all genes screened must be established. In addition, each jurisdiction needs to resolve ethical and policy issues regarding the disclosure of incidental or secondary findings to families and ownership, appropriate storage and sharing of genomic data. CONCLUSION The best interests of children should be the basis for all decisions regarding the implementation of genomic newborn screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan M. Friedman
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Child & Family Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Martina C. Cornel
- Section Clinical Genetics, Department of Clinical Genetics, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Holland
- EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Holland
| | - Aaron J. Goldenberg
- The Center for Genetic Research Ethics and Law, Department of Bioethics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Karla J. Lister
- Office of Population Health Genomics, Public Health Division, Department of Health, Government of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Karine Sénécal
- Centre of Genomics and Policy, Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Danya F. Vears
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Bertier G, Sénécal K, Borry P, Vears DF. Unsolved challenges in pediatric whole-exome sequencing: A literature analysis. Crit Rev Clin Lab Sci 2017; 54:134-142. [PMID: 28132577 DOI: 10.1080/10408363.2016.1275516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Whole-exome sequencing (WES) has been instrumental in the discovery of novel genes and mechanisms causing Mendelian diseases. While this technology is now being successfully applied in a number of clinics, particularly to diagnose patients with rare diseases, it also raises a number of ethical, legal and social issues. In order to identify what challenges were directly foreseen by technology users, we performed a systematic review of the literature. In this paper, we focus on recent publications related to the use of WES in the pediatric context and analyze the most prominent challenges raised by technology users. This is particularly relevant considering that a) most patients currently undergoing testing using WES to identify the genetic basis for rare diseases are children and b) their lack of capacity to consent for themselves makes them a vulnerable population and generates the need for specific ethical, legal and regulatory procedures. We identified key challenges that related to four main categories: (1) intake; (2) sequence production and analysis; (3) reporting of results and counseling considerations and (4) collaborative data interpretation and data sharing. We then contextualize these challenges in light of the recent recommendations and guidelines, published by professional societies that have significant potential to impact the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Bertier
- a Department of Human Genetics , Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill University , Montreal , QC , Canada.,b UMR 1027, Inserm, Université Toulouse III - Paul Sabatier , Toulouse , France
| | - Karine Sénécal
- a Department of Human Genetics , Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill University , Montreal , QC , Canada
| | - Pascal Borry
- c Department of Public Health and Primary Care , Leuven Institute for Human Genomics and Society , KU Leuven , Leuven , Belgium and
| | - Danya F Vears
- c Department of Public Health and Primary Care , Leuven Institute for Human Genomics and Society , KU Leuven , Leuven , Belgium and.,d Center for Biomedical Ethics and Law , KU Leuven , Leuven , Belgium
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35
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Ku CS, Cooper DN, Patrinos GP. The Rise and Rise of Exome Sequencing. Public Health Genomics 2016; 19:315-324. [DOI: 10.1159/000450991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2016] [Accepted: 09/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
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36
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Trujillano D, Bertoli-Avella AM, Kumar Kandaswamy K, Weiss ME, Köster J, Marais A, Paknia O, Schröder R, Garcia-Aznar JM, Werber M, Brandau O, Calvo Del Castillo M, Baldi C, Wessel K, Kishore S, Nahavandi N, Eyaid W, Al Rifai MT, Al-Rumayyan A, Al-Twaijri W, Alothaim A, Alhashem A, Al-Sannaa N, Al-Balwi M, Alfadhel M, Rolfs A, Abou Jamra R. Clinical exome sequencing: results from 2819 samples reflecting 1000 families. Eur J Hum Genet 2016; 25:176-182. [PMID: 27848944 PMCID: PMC5255946 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2016.146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 264] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2016] [Revised: 09/07/2016] [Accepted: 09/23/2016] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
We report our results of 1000 diagnostic WES cases based on 2819 sequenced samples from 54 countries with a wide phenotypic spectrum. Clinical information given by the requesting physicians was translated to HPO terms. WES processes were performed according to standardized settings. We identified the underlying pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants in 307 families (30.7%). In further 253 families (25.3%) a variant of unknown significance, possibly explaining the clinical symptoms of the index patient was identified. WES enabled timely diagnosing of genetic diseases, validation of causality of specific genetic disorders of PTPN23, KCTD3, SCN3A, PPOX, FRMPD4, and SCN1B, and setting dual diagnoses by detecting two causative variants in distinct genes in the same patient. We observed a better diagnostic yield in consanguineous families, in severe and in syndromic phenotypes. Our results suggest that WES has a better yield in patients that present with several symptoms, rather than an isolated abnormality. We also validate the clinical benefit of WES as an effective diagnostic tool, particularly in nonspecific or heterogeneous phenotypes. We recommend WES as a first-line diagnostic in all cases without a clear differential diagnosis, to facilitate personal medical care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Wafaa Eyaid
- Division of Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Talal Al Rifai
- College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Al-Rumayyan
- College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed Al-Twaijri
- College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali Alothaim
- College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Department of pathology, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amal Alhashem
- Division of Metabolic and Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nouriya Al-Sannaa
- Division of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins Aramco hospital, Dhahran Health Center, Saudi Aramco, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Al-Balwi
- College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Majid Alfadhel
- Division of Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Arndt Rolfs
- Centogene AG, Rostock, Germany.,Albrecht-Kossel-Institute for Neuroregeneration, Medical University Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Rami Abou Jamra
- Centogene AG, Rostock, Germany.,Institute of Human Genetics, University of Leipzig Hospitals and Clinics, Leipzig, Germany
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Testing the Complex Child: CGH Array, WES, Clinical Exome, WGS. CURRENT PEDIATRICS REPORTS 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s40124-016-0111-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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38
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Family-Specific Variants and the Limits of Human Genetics. Trends Mol Med 2016; 22:925-934. [PMID: 27742414 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2016.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2016] [Revised: 09/10/2016] [Accepted: 09/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Every single-nucleotide change compatible with life is present in the human population today. Understanding these rare human variants defines an extraordinary challenge for genetics and medicine. The new clinical practice of sequencing many genes for hereditary cancer risk has illustrated the utility of clinical next-generation sequencing in adults, identifying more medically actionable variants than single-gene testing. However, it has also revealed a linear relationship between the length of DNA evaluated and the number of rare 'variants of uncertain significance' reported. We propose that careful approaches to phenotype-genotype inference, distinguishing between diagnostic and screening intent, in conjunction with expanded use of family-scale genetics studies as a source of information on family-specific variants, will reduce variants of uncertain significance reported to patients.
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Bertier G, Hétu M, Joly Y. Unsolved challenges of clinical whole-exome sequencing: a systematic literature review of end-users' views. BMC Med Genomics 2016; 9:52. [PMID: 27514372 PMCID: PMC4982236 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-016-0213-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2016] [Accepted: 07/28/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whole-exome sequencing (WES) consists in the capture, sequencing and analysis of all exons in the human genome. Originally developed in the research context, this technology is now increasingly used clinically to inform patient care. The implementation of WES into healthcare poses significant organizational, regulatory, and ethical hurdles, which are widely discussed in the literature. METHODS In order to inform future policy decisions on the integration of WES into standard clinical practice, we performed a systematic literature review to identify the most important challenges directly reported by technology users. RESULTS Out of 2094 articles, we selected and analyzed 147 which reported a total of 23 different challenges linked to the production, analysis, reporting and sharing of patients' WES data. Interpretation of variants of unknown significance, incidental findings, and the cost and reimbursement of WES-based tests were the most reported challenges across all articles. CONCLUSIONS WES is already used in the clinical setting, and may soon be considered the standard of care for specific medical conditions. Yet, technology users are calling for certain standards and guidelines to be published before this technology replaces more focused approaches such as gene panels sequencing. In addition, a number of infrastructural adjustments will have to be made for clinics to store, process and analyze the amounts of data produced by WES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Bertier
- Center of Genomics and Policy, McGill University, 740 Dr. Penfield Avenue, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0G1 Canada
- UMR 1027, Inserm, University of Toulouse III - Paul Sabatier, 37 allées Jules Guesde, F-31000 Toulouse, France
| | - Martin Hétu
- Center of Genomics and Policy, McGill University, 740 Dr. Penfield Avenue, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0G1 Canada
| | - Yann Joly
- Center of Genomics and Policy, McGill University, 740 Dr. Penfield Avenue, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0G1 Canada
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Strande NT, Berg JS. Defining the Clinical Value of a Genomic Diagnosis in the Era of Next-Generation Sequencing. Annu Rev Genomics Hum Genet 2016; 17:303-32. [PMID: 27362341 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-genom-083115-022348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
As with all fields of medicine, the first step toward medical management of genetic disorders is obtaining an accurate diagnosis, which often requires testing at the molecular level. Unfortunately, given the large number of genetic conditions without a specific intervention, only rarely does a genetic diagnosis alter patient management-which raises the question, what is the added value of obtaining a molecular diagnosis? Given the fast-paced advancement of genomic technologies, this is an important question to address in the context of genome-scale testing. Here, we address the value of establishing a diagnosis using genome-scale testing and highlight the benefits and drawbacks of such testing. We also review and compare recent major studies implementing genome-scale sequencing methods to identify a molecular diagnosis in cohorts manifesting a broad range of Mendelian monogenic disorders. Finally, we discuss potential future applications of genomic sequencing, such as screening for rare conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha T Strande
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599; ,
| | - Jonathan S Berg
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599; ,
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Maxwell K, Hart S, Vijai J, Schrader K, Slavin T, Thomas T, Wubbenhorst B, Ravichandran V, Moore R, Hu C, Guidugli L, Wenz B, Domchek S, Robson M, Szabo C, Neuhausen S, Weitzel J, Offit K, Couch F, Nathanson K. Evaluation of ACMG-Guideline-Based Variant Classification of Cancer Susceptibility and Non-Cancer-Associated Genes in Families Affected by Breast Cancer. Am J Hum Genet 2016; 98:801-817. [PMID: 27153395 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2016.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2015] [Accepted: 02/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Sequencing tests assaying panels of genes or whole exomes are widely available for cancer risk evaluation. However, methods for classification of variants resulting from this testing are not well studied. We evaluated the ability of a variant-classification methodology based on American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) guidelines to define the rate of mutations and variants of uncertain significance (VUS) in 180 medically relevant genes, including all ACMG-designated reportable cancer and non-cancer-associated genes, in individuals who met guidelines for hereditary cancer risk evaluation. We performed whole-exome sequencing in 404 individuals in 253 families and classified 1,640 variants. Potentially clinically actionable (likely pathogenic [LP] or pathogenic [P]) versus nonactionable (VUS, likely benign, or benign) calls were 95% concordant with locus-specific databases and Clinvar. LP or P mutations were identified in 12 of 25 breast cancer susceptibility genes in 26 families without identified BRCA1/2 mutations (11%). Evaluation of 84 additional genes associated with autosomal-dominant cancer susceptibility identified LP or P mutations in only two additional families (0.8%). However, individuals from 10 of 253 families (3.9%) had incidental LP or P mutations in 32 non-cancer-associated genes, and 9% of individuals were monoallelic carriers of a rare LP or P mutation in 39 genes associated with autosomal-recessive cancer susceptibility. Furthermore, 95% of individuals had at least one VUS. In summary, these data support the clinical utility of ACMG variant-classification guidelines. Additionally, evaluation of extended panels of cancer-associated genes in breast/ovarian cancer families leads to only an incremental clinical benefit but substantially increases the complexity of the results.
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A Clinician's perspective on clinical exome sequencing. Hum Genet 2016; 135:643-54. [PMID: 27126233 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-016-1662-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Accepted: 03/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Clinical exome sequencing has clearly improved our ability as clinicians to identify the cause of a wide variety of disorders. Prior to exome sequencing, a majority of patients with apparent syndromes never received a specific molecular genetic diagnosis despite extensive diagnostic odysseys. Even for those receiving an answer to the question of what caused their disorder, the diagnostic odyssey often spanned years to decades. Determining the particular genetic cause in an individual patient can be challenging due to inherent phenotypic and genetic heterogeneity of disease, technical limitations of testing or both. Blended phenotypes, due to multiple monogenic disorders in the same patient, are true dilemmas for traditional genetic evaluations, but are increasingly being diagnosed through clinical exome sequencing. New sequencing technologies have increased the proportion of patients receiving molecular diagnoses, while significantly shortening the time scale, providing multiple benefits for the health-care team, patient and family.
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44
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Not the End of the Odyssey: Parental Perceptions of Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) in Pediatric Undiagnosed Disorders. J Genet Couns 2016; 25:1019-31. [PMID: 26868367 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-016-9933-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2015] [Accepted: 01/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Due to the lack of empirical information on parental perceptions of primary results of whole exome sequencing (WES), we conducted a retrospective semi-structured interview with 19 parents of children who had undergone WES. Perceptions explored during the interview included factors that would contribute to parental empowerment such as: parental expectations, understanding of the WES and results, utilization of the WES information, and communication of findings to health/educational professionals and family members. Results of the WES had previously been communicated to families within a novel framework of clinical diagnostic categories: 5/19 had Definite diagnoses, 6/19 had Likely diagnoses, 3/19 had Possible diagnosis and 5/19 had No diagnosis. All parents interviewed expressed a sense of duty to pursue the WES in search of a diagnosis; however, their expectations were tempered by previous experiences with negative genetic testing results. Approximately half the parents worried that a primary diagnosis that would be lethal might be identified; however, the hope of a diagnosis outweighed this concern. Parents were accurately able to summarize their child's WES findings, understood the implications for recurrence risks, and were able to communicate these findings to family and medical/educational providers. The majority of those with a Definite/Likely diagnosis felt that their child's medical care was more focused, or there was a reduction in worry, despite the lack of a specific treatment. Irrespective of diagnostic outcome, parents recommended that follow-up visits be built into the process. Several parents expressed a desire to have all variants of unknown significance (VUS) reported to them so that they could investigate these themselves. Finally, for some families whose children had a Definite/Likely diagnosis, there was remaining frustration and a sense of isolation, due to the limited information that was available about the diagnosed rare disorders and the inability to connect to other families, suggesting that for families with rare genetic disorders, the diagnostic odyssey does not necessarily end with a diagnosis. Qualitative interviewing served a meaningful role in eliciting new information about parental motivations, expectations, and knowledge of WES. Our findings highlight a need for continued communication with families as we navigate the new landscape of genomic sequencing.
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Chitty LS, Friedman JM, Langlois S. Current controversies in prenatal diagnosis 2: should a fetal exome be used in the assessment of a dysmorphic or malformed fetus? Prenat Diagn 2015; 36:15-9. [PMID: 26525746 DOI: 10.1002/pd.4718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2015] [Revised: 10/21/2015] [Accepted: 10/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lyn S Chitty
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine, UCL Institute of Child Health and Great Ormond Street NHS Foundation Trust, London, England
| | - Jan M Friedman
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Sylvie Langlois
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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46
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Loddo I, Romano C. Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Genetics, Epigenetics, and Pathogenesis. Front Immunol 2015; 6:551. [PMID: 26579126 PMCID: PMC4629465 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2015.00551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 267] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are complex, multifactorial disorders characterized by chronic relapsing intestinal inflammation. Although etiology remains largely unknown, recent research has suggested that genetic factors, environment, microbiota, and immune response are involved in the pathogenesis. Epidemiological evidence for a genetic contribution is defined: 15% of patients with Crohn's Disease (CD) have an affected family member with IBD, and twin studies for CD have shown 50% concordance in monozygotic twins compared to <10% in dizygotics. The most recent and largest genetic association studies, which employed genome-wide association data for over 75,000 patients and controls, identified 163 susceptibility loci for IBD. More recently, a trans-ethnic analysis, including over 20,000 individuals, identified an additional 38 new IBD loci. Although most cases are correlated with polygenic contribution toward genetic susceptibility, there is a spectrum of rare genetic disorders that can contribute to early-onset IBD (before 5 years) or very early onset IBD (before 2 years). Genetic variants that cause these disorders have a wide effect on gene function. These variants are so rare in allele frequency that the genetic signals are not detected in genome-wide association studies of patients with IBD. With recent advances in sequencing techniques, ~50 genetic disorders have been identified and associated with IBD-like immunopathology. Monogenic defects have been found to alter intestinal immune homeostasis through many mechanisms. Candidate gene resequencing should be carried out in early-onset patients in clinical practice. The evidence that genetic factors contribute in small part to disease pathogenesis confirms the important role of microbial and environmental factors. Epigenetic factors can mediate interactions between environment and genome. Epigenetic mechanisms could affect development and progression of IBD. Epigenomics is an emerging field, and future studies could provide new insight into the pathogenesis of IBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Italia Loddo
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease Unit, Pediatric Department, University of Messina , Messina , Italy
| | - Claudio Romano
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease Unit, Pediatric Department, University of Messina , Messina , Italy
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47
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Is it Time for Genomic Counseling? Retrofitting Genetic Counseling for the Era of Genomic Medicine. CURRENT GENETIC MEDICINE REPORTS 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s40142-015-0068-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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