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Tucker EJ, Sharp MF, Lokchine A, Bell KM, Palmer CS, Kline BL, Robevska G, van den Bergen J, Dulon J, Stojanovski D, Ayers KL, Touraine P, Crismani W, Jaillard S, Sinclair AH. Biallelic FANCA variants detected in sisters with isolated premature ovarian insufficiency. Clin Genet 2024. [PMID: 38779778 DOI: 10.1111/cge.14543] [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: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency is a common form of female infertility affecting up to 4% of women and characterised by amenorrhea with elevated gonadotropin before the age of 40. Oocytes require controlled DNA breakage and repair for homologous recombination and the maintenance of oocyte integrity. Biallelic disruption of the DNA damage repair gene, Fanconi anemia complementation group A (FANCA), is a common cause of Fanconi anaemia, a syndrome characterised by bone marrow failure, cancer predisposition, physical anomalies and POI. There is ongoing dispute about the role of heterozygous FANCA variants in POI pathogenesis, with insufficient evidence supporting causation. Here, we have identified biallelic FANCA variants in French sisters presenting with POI, including a novel missense variant of uncertain significance and a likely pathogenic deletion that initially evaded detection. Functional studies indicated no discernible effect on DNA damage sensitivity in patient lymphoblasts. These novel FANCA variants add evidence that heterozygous loss of one allele is insufficient to cause DNA damage sensitivity and POI. We propose that intragenic deletions, that are relatively common in FANCA, may be missed without careful analysis, and could explain the presumed causation of heterozygous variants. Accurate variant curation is critical to optimise patient care and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena J Tucker
- Reproductive Development, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael F Sharp
- DNA Repair and Recombination Laboratory, St. Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia
- The Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Science, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anna Lokchine
- CHU Rennes, INSERM, EHESP, IRSET (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S1085, Univ Rennes, Rennes, France
- Service de Cytogénétique et Biologie Cellulaire, CHU Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Katrina M Bell
- Reproductive Development, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Bioinformatics, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Victoria, Australia
| | - Catherine S Palmer
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology and The Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Brianna L Kline
- Reproductive Development, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Gorjana Robevska
- Reproductive Development, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jocelyn van den Bergen
- Reproductive Development, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jérôme Dulon
- Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, AP-HP, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | - Diana Stojanovski
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology and The Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Katie L Ayers
- Reproductive Development, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Philippe Touraine
- Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, AP-HP, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | - Wayne Crismani
- DNA Repair and Recombination Laboratory, St. Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sylvie Jaillard
- CHU Rennes, INSERM, EHESP, IRSET (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S1085, Univ Rennes, Rennes, France
- Service de Cytogénétique et Biologie Cellulaire, CHU Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Andrew H Sinclair
- Reproductive Development, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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2
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Krawczyk MA, Styczewska M, Birkholz-Walerzak D, Iliszko M, Lipska-Zietkiewicz BS, Kosiak W, Irga-Jaworska N, Izycka-Swieszewska E, Bien E. Bilateral Ovarian Germ Cell Tumor in a 46,XX Female with Nijmegen Breakage Syndrome and Hypergonadotropic Hypogonadism. J Clin Res Pediatr Endocrinol 2022; 14:251-257. [PMID: 34544220 PMCID: PMC9176082 DOI: 10.4274/jcrpe.galenos.2021.2021.0151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Nijmegen breakage syndrome (NBS) is a rare autosomal recessive disease, affecting mainly patients of Slavic origin. It is caused by a defect in the NBN gene, resulting in defective nibrin protein formation. This leads to chromosomal instability, which predisposes to cancer, with lymphoid malignancies predominating. Nibrin is also involved in gonadal development and its disfunction in females with NBS frequently results in a pure gonadal dysgenesis (PGD) causing hypergonadotropic hypogonadism. However, only a few ovarian tumors in NBS patients have been reported to date. We describe the first case of a girl with NBS with PGD, who developed metachronous bilateral ovarian germ cell tumors (dysgerminoma and gonadoblastoma). Pathogenesis of PGD, neoplastic transformation and therapeutic approach in females with NBS are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malgorzata A. Krawczyk
- Medical University of Gdansk, Department of Pediatrics, Hematology and Oncology, Gdansk, Poland,* Address for Correspondence: Medical University of Gdansk, Department of Pediatrics, Hematology and Oncology, Gdansk, Poland Phone: +48 58 349 28 80 E-mail:
| | - Malgorzata Styczewska
- Medical University of Gdańsk, The English Division Pediatric Oncology Scientific Circle, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Dorota Birkholz-Walerzak
- Medical University of Gdańsk, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Diabetology and Endocrinology, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Mariola Iliszko
- Medical University of Gdańsk, Department of Biology and Medical Genetics, Gdańsk, Poland
| | | | | | - Ninela Irga-Jaworska
- Medical University of Gdansk, Department of Pediatrics, Hematology and Oncology, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Ewa Izycka-Swieszewska
- Medical University of Gdańsk, Department of Pathology and Neuropathology, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Ewa Bien
- Medical University of Gdansk, Department of Pediatrics, Hematology and Oncology, Gdansk, Poland
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3
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Gorsi B, Hernandez E, Moore MB, Moriwaki M, Chow CY, Coelho E, Taylor E, Lu C, Walker A, Touraine P, Nelson LM, Cooper AR, Mardis ER, Rajkovic A, Yandell M, Welt CK. Causal and Candidate Gene Variants in a Large Cohort of Women With Primary Ovarian Insufficiency. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:685-714. [PMID: 34718612 PMCID: PMC9006976 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT A genetic etiology likely accounts for the majority of unexplained primary ovarian insufficiency (POI). OBJECTIVE We hypothesized that heterozygous rare variants and variants in enhanced categories are associated with POI. DESIGN The study was an observational study. SETTING Subjects were recruited at academic institutions. PATIENTS Subjects from Boston (n = 98), the National Institutes of Health and Washington University (n = 98), Pittsburgh (n = 20), Italy (n = 43), and France (n = 32) were diagnosed with POI (amenorrhea with an elevated follicle-stimulating hormone level). Controls were recruited for health in old age or were from the 1000 Genomes Project (total n = 233). INTERVENTION We performed whole exome sequencing (WES), and data were analyzed using a rare variant scoring method and a Bayes factor-based framework for identifying genes harboring pathogenic variants. We performed functional studies on identified genes that were not previously implicated in POI in a D. melanogaster model. MAIN OUTCOME Genes with rare pathogenic variants and gene sets with increased burden of deleterious variants were identified. RESULTS Candidate heterozygous variants were identified in known genes and genes with functional evidence. Gene sets with increased burden of deleterious alleles included the categories transcription and translation, DNA damage and repair, meiosis and cell division. Variants were found in novel genes from the enhanced categories. Functional evidence supported 7 new risk genes for POI (USP36, VCP, WDR33, PIWIL3, NPM2, LLGL1, and BOD1L1). CONCLUSIONS Candidate causative variants were identified through WES in women with POI. Aggregating clinical data and genetic risk with a categorical approach may expand the genetic architecture of heterozygous rare gene variants causing risk for POI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bushra Gorsi
- Utah Center for Genetic Discovery, Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Edgar Hernandez
- Utah Center for Genetic Discovery, Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Marvin Barry Moore
- Utah Center for Genetic Discovery, Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Mika Moriwaki
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Clement Y Chow
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Emily Coelho
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Elaine Taylor
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Claire Lu
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Amanda Walker
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Philippe Touraine
- Sorbonne Universite, Hôpital Universitaire Pitié Salpêtrière-Charles Foix, Service d’Endocrinologie et Médecine de la Reproduction, Centre de Maladies Endocriniennes Rares de la Croissance et du Développement, Centre de Pathologies Gynécologiques Rares, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Elaine R Mardis
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Aleksander Rajkovic
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mark Yandell
- Utah Center for Genetic Discovery, Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Corrine K Welt
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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4
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Yang Q, Mumusoglu S, Qin Y, Sun Y, Hsueh AJ. A kaleidoscopic view of ovarian genes associated with premature ovarian insufficiency and senescence. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21753. [PMID: 34233068 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202100756r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian infertility and subfertility presenting with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) and diminished ovarian reserve are major issues facing the developed world due to the trend of delaying childbirth. Ovarian senescence and POI represent a continuum of physiological/pathophysiological changes in ovarian follicle functions. Based on advances in whole exome sequencing, evaluation of gene copy variants, together with family-based and genome-wide association studies, we discussed genes responsible for POI and ovarian senescence. We used a gene-centric approach to sort out literature deposited in the Ovarian Kaleidoscope database (http://okdb.appliedbioinfo.net) by sub-categorizing candidate genes as ligand-receptor signaling, meiosis and DNA repair, transcriptional factors, RNA metabolism, enzymes, and others. We discussed individual gene mutations found in POI patients and verification of gene functions in gene-deleted model organisms. Decreased expression of some of the POI genes could be responsible for ovarian senescence, especially those essential for DNA repair, meiosis and mitochondrial functions. We propose to set up a candidate gene panel for targeted sequencing in POI patients together with studies on mitochondria-associated genes in middle-aged subfertile patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingling Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sezcan Mumusoglu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hacettepe University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Yingying Qin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yingpu Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Aaron J Hsueh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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5
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Chon SJ, Umair Z, Yoon MS. Premature Ovarian Insufficiency: Past, Present, and Future. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:672890. [PMID: 34041247 PMCID: PMC8141617 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.672890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is the loss of normal ovarian function before the age of 40 years, a condition that affects approximately 1% of women under 40 years old and 0.1% of women under 30 years old. It is biochemically characterized by amenorrhea with hypoestrogenic and hypergonadotropic conditions, in some cases, causing loss of fertility. Heterogeneity of POI is registered by genetic and non-genetic causes, such as autoimmunity, environmental toxins, and chemicals. The identification of possible causative genes and selection of candidate genes for POI confirmation remain to be elucidated in cases of idiopathic POI. This review discusses the current understanding and future prospects of heterogeneous POI. We focus on the genetic basis of POI and the recent studies on non-coding RNA in POI pathogenesis as well as on animal models of POI pathogenesis, which help unravel POI mechanisms and potential targets. Despite the latest discoveries, the crosstalk among gene regulatory networks and the possible therapies targeting the same needs to explore in near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Joo Chon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, South Korea
| | - Zobia Umair
- Department of Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, South Korea
| | - Mee-Sup Yoon
- Department of Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, South Korea.,Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, Incheon, South Korea.,Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon, South Korea
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6
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Szeliga A, Zysnarska A, Szklarska Z, Truszkowska E, Podfigurna A, Czyzyk A, Genazzani AR, Chrzanowska K, Meczekalski B. A case of premature ovarian insufficiency in Nijmegen breakage syndrome patient and review of literature. From gene mutation to clinical management. Gynecol Endocrinol 2019; 35:999-1002. [PMID: 31187634 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2019.1626366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Nijmegen breakage syndrome (NBS) is an autosomal recessive disorder leading to chromosomal instability and an array of symptoms, including characteristic facial features (bird-like face), predisposition to malignancies, as well as hypergonadotropic hypogonadism. This case report discusses the diagnostic process and management of a 23-year-old Polish female patient who was admitted to hospital with symptoms of secondary amenorrhea and clinical features corresponding to NBS. Methods: Clinical examination, per-rectal ultrasound, laboratory diagnostics (including serum concentrations of FSH, LH, estradiol, testosterone, and TSH), as well as SSCP analysis and classic karyotyping were performed. Results: During hormonal evaluation elevated serum concentration of FSH and LH and decreased serum concentration of estradiol were measured. The genetic testing revealed translocation 7;14 (t(7;14)) and inversion 7 in 22% of examined cells which confirmed the initial hypothesis of NBS. The diagnosis was finally verified by identifying a Slavic founder mutation, c.657_661del5, on both allels of the NBN gene. Furthermore, hormonal serum evaluation conducted after four weeks allowed the patient to be diagnosed with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) suspected earlier on the grounds of preliminary examinations (ultrasound imaging and laboratory tests). Conclusions: Chromosomal instability resulting from a mutation present in Nijmegen breakage syndrome patients might be a causative factor of premature ovarian insufficiency. Therefore, females diagnosed with NBS should undergo additional diagnostic procedures in order to determine further management and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Szeliga
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences , Poznan , Poland
| | - Aleksandra Zysnarska
- Students Scientific Society of the Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences , Poznan , Poland
| | - Zuzanna Szklarska
- Students Scientific Society of the Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences , Poznan , Poland
| | - Ewelina Truszkowska
- Students Scientific Society of the Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences , Poznan , Poland
| | - Agnieszka Podfigurna
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences , Poznan , Poland
| | - Adam Czyzyk
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences , Poznan , Poland
| | - Andrea R Genazzani
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Child Development, Division of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Pisa , Pisa , Italy
| | - Krystyna Chrzanowska
- Department of Medical Genetics, The Children's Memorial Health Institute , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Blazej Meczekalski
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences , Poznan , Poland
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7
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Taylor AMR, Rothblum-Oviatt C, Ellis NA, Hickson ID, Meyer S, Crawford TO, Smogorzewska A, Pietrucha B, Weemaes C, Stewart GS. Chromosome instability syndromes. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2019; 5:64. [PMID: 31537806 PMCID: PMC10617425 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-019-0113-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Fanconi anaemia (FA), ataxia telangiectasia (A-T), Nijmegen breakage syndrome (NBS) and Bloom syndrome (BS) are clinically distinct, chromosome instability (or breakage) disorders. Each disorder has its own pattern of chromosomal damage, with cells from these patients being hypersensitive to particular genotoxic drugs, indicating that the underlying defect in each case is likely to be different. In addition, each syndrome shows a predisposition to cancer. Study of the molecular and genetic basis of these disorders has revealed mechanisms of recognition and repair of DNA double-strand breaks, DNA interstrand crosslinks and DNA damage during DNA replication. Specialist clinics for each disorder have provided the concentration of expertise needed to tackle their characteristic clinical problems and improve outcomes. Although some treatments of the consequences of a disorder may be possible, for example, haematopoietic stem cell transplantation in FA and NBS, future early intervention to prevent complications of disease will depend on a greater understanding of the roles of the affected DNA repair pathways in development. An important realization has been the predisposition to cancer in carriers of some of these gene mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Malcolm R Taylor
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
| | | | - Nathan A Ellis
- The University of Arizona Cancer Center, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Ian D Hickson
- Center for Chromosome Stability, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stefan Meyer
- Stem Cell and Leukaemia Proteomics Laboratory, and Paediatric and Adolescent Oncology, Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Haematology and Oncology, Royal Manchester Children's Hospital and The Christie NHS Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Thomas O Crawford
- Department of Neurology and Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Agata Smogorzewska
- Laboratory of Genome Maintenance, Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Barbara Pietrucha
- Department of Immunology, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Corry Weemaes
- Department of Pediatrics (Pediatric Immunology), Amalia Children's Hospital, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Grant S Stewart
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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8
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Hereditary myeloid malignancies. Best Pract Res Clin Haematol 2019; 32:163-176. [DOI: 10.1016/j.beha.2019.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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9
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Tucker EJ, Grover SR, Robevska G, van den Bergen J, Hanna C, Sinclair AH. Identification of variants in pleiotropic genes causing "isolated" premature ovarian insufficiency: implications for medical practice. Eur J Hum Genet 2018; 26:1319-1328. [PMID: 29706645 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-018-0140-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Revised: 02/25/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is increasingly being used in a clinical setting for the molecular diagnosis of patients with heterogeneous disorders, such as premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). We performed NGS of ~1000 candidate genes in four unrelated patients with POI. We discovered the genetic cause of "isolated" POI in two cases, both of which had causative variants in surprising genes. In the first case, a homozygous nonsense variant in NBN was causative. Recessive function-altering NBN variants typically cause Nijmegen breakage syndrome characterized by microcephaly, cancer predisposition, and immunodeficiency, none of which are evident in the patient. At a cellular level, we found evidence of chromosomal instability. In the second case, compound heterozygous variants in EIF2B2 were causative. Recessive EIF2B2 function-altering variants usually cause leukoencephalopathy with episodic decline. Subsequent MRI revealed subclinical neurological abnormalities. These cases demonstrate that variants in NBN and EIF2B2, which usually cause severe syndromes, can cause apparently isolated POI, and that (1) NGS can precede clinical diagnosis and guide patient management, (2) NGS can redefine the phenotypic spectrum of syndromes, and (3) NGS may make unanticipated diagnoses that must be sensitively communicated to patients. Although there is rigorous debate about the handling of secondary/incidental findings using NGS, there is little discussion of the management of causative pleiotropic gene variants that have broader implications than that for which genetic studies were sought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena J Tucker
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Sonia R Grover
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia.,Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Gorjana Robevska
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Jocelyn van den Bergen
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Chloe Hanna
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia.,Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Andrew H Sinclair
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia. .,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia.
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10
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Richards JS, Ren YA, Candelaria N, Adams JE, Rajkovic A. Ovarian Follicular Theca Cell Recruitment, Differentiation, and Impact on Fertility: 2017 Update. Endocr Rev 2018; 39:1-20. [PMID: 29028960 PMCID: PMC5807095 DOI: 10.1210/er.2017-00164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The major goal of this review is to summarize recent exciting findings that have been published within the past 10 years that, to our knowledge, have not been presented in detail in previous reviews and that may impact altered follicular development in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and premature ovarian failure in women. Specifically, we will cover the following: (1) mouse models that have led to discovery of the derivation of two precursor populations of theca cells in the embryonic gonad; (2) the key roles of the oocyte-derived factor growth differentiation factor 9 on the hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway and theca cell functions; and (3) the impact of the HH pathway on both the specification of theca endocrine cells and theca fibroblast and smooth muscle cells in developing follicles. We will also discuss the following: (1) other signaling pathways that impact the differentiation of theca cells, not only luteinizing hormone but also insulinlike 3, bone morphogenic proteins, the circadian clock genes, androgens, and estrogens; and (2) theca-associated vascular, immune, and fibroblast cells, as well as the cytokines and matrix factors that play key roles in follicle growth. Lastly, we will integrate what is known about theca cells from mouse models, human-derived theca cell lines from patients who have PCOS and patients who do not have PCOS, and microarray analyses of human and bovine theca to understand what pathways and factors contribute to follicle growth as well as to the abnormal function of theca.
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Affiliation(s)
- JoAnne S. Richards
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Yi A. Ren
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Nicholes Candelaria
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Jaye E. Adams
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Aleksandar Rajkovic
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Magee-Women’s Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213
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11
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DNA Damage as a Driver for Growth Delay: Chromosome Instability Syndromes with Intrauterine Growth Retardation. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 2017:8193892. [PMID: 29238724 PMCID: PMC5702399 DOI: 10.1155/2017/8193892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2017] [Revised: 06/16/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
DNA is constantly exposed to endogenous and exogenous mutagenic stimuli that are capable of producing diverse lesions. In order to protect the integrity of the genetic material, a wide array of DNA repair systems that can target each specific lesion has evolved. Despite the availability of several repair pathways, a common general program known as the DNA damage response (DDR) is stimulated to promote lesion detection, signaling, and repair in order to maintain genetic integrity. The genes that participate in these pathways are subject to mutation; a loss in their function would result in impaired DNA repair and genomic instability. When the DDR is constitutionally altered, every cell of the organism, starting from development, will show DNA damage and subsequent genomic instability. The cellular response to this is either uncontrolled proliferation and cell cycle deregulation that ensues overgrowth, or apoptosis and senescence that result in tissue hypoplasia. These diverging growth abnormalities can clinically translate as cancer or growth retardation; both features can be found in chromosome instability syndromes (CIS). The analysis of the clinical, cellular, and molecular phenotypes of CIS with intrauterine growth retardation allows inferring that replication alteration is their unifying feature.
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Woelke S, Pommerening H, Kieslich M, Schubert R, Zielen S. Growth hormone treatment in patients with ataxia telangiectasia. Growth Factors 2017; 35:125-130. [PMID: 28948852 DOI: 10.1080/08977194.2017.1367681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ataxia telangiectasia (A-T) is a devastating autosomal recessive disorder with chromosomal instability and growth failure. Low levels of growth hormone (GH) and growth factors may be related to advanced neurological deterioration, wasting syndrome and more pronounced immunodeficiency. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study is to study safety and effectiveness of GH therapy in patients with A-T and evaluate the effect of GH on ataxia and lymphocyte subsets. METHODS Three patients with classical A-T were treated with GH (0.3 mg/kg/d) for 1 year. Growth rate, ataxia score and lymphocyte subsets were monitored. RESULTS GH treatment was well tolerated. All patients showed a significant increase of height SDS of +1.3 (mean height SDS -1.994), a mean increase of 8 (6-11) cm/12 months. Lymphocytes subsets and ataxia were not altered before and after GH treatment. CONCLUSIONS Treatment with GH is feasible and effective in A-T patients with severe growth arrest, but no effect on ataxia and lymphocytes could be recorded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Woelke
- a Division for Allergy, Pneumology and Cystic Fibrosis, Department for Children and Adolescents , Goethe University , Frankfurt am Main , Germany
| | - Helena Pommerening
- a Division for Allergy, Pneumology and Cystic Fibrosis, Department for Children and Adolescents , Goethe University , Frankfurt am Main , Germany
| | - Matthias Kieslich
- b Division for Neurology, Department for Children and Adolescents , Goethe-University , Frankfurt am Main , Germany
| | - Ralf Schubert
- a Division for Allergy, Pneumology and Cystic Fibrosis, Department for Children and Adolescents , Goethe University , Frankfurt am Main , Germany
| | - Stefan Zielen
- a Division for Allergy, Pneumology and Cystic Fibrosis, Department for Children and Adolescents , Goethe University , Frankfurt am Main , Germany
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Tucker EJ, Grover SR, Bachelot A, Touraine P, Sinclair AH. Premature Ovarian Insufficiency: New Perspectives on Genetic Cause and Phenotypic Spectrum. Endocr Rev 2016; 37:609-635. [PMID: 27690531 DOI: 10.1210/er.2016-1047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is one form of female infertility, defined by loss of ovarian activity before the age of 40 and characterized by amenorrhea (primary or secondary) with raised gonadotropins and low estradiol. POI affects up to one in 100 females, including one in 1000 before the age of 30. Substantial evidence suggests a genetic basis for POI; however, the majority of cases remain unexplained, indicating that genes likely to be associated with this condition are yet to be discovered. This review discusses the current knowledge of the genetic basis of POI. We highlight genes typically known to cause syndromic POI that can be responsible for isolated POI. The role of mouse models in understanding POI pathogenesis is discussed, and a thorough list of candidate POI genes is provided. Identifying a genetic basis for POI has multiple advantages, such as enabling the identification of presymptomatic family members who can be offered counseling and cryopreservation of eggs before depletion, enabling personalized treatment based on the cause of an individual's condition, and providing better understanding of disease mechanisms that ultimately aid the development of improved treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena J Tucker
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute (E.J.T., S.R.G., A.H.S.), Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052 Australia; Department of Paediatrics (E.J.T., S.R.G., A.H.S.), University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology (S.R.G.), Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia; Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, (A.B., P.T.), IE3M, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris 6 University, Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Centre de Référence des Maladies Endocriniennes Rares de la Croissance et des Pathologies Gynécologiques Rares, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 75013 Paris, France; Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (A.B., P.T.), 75654 Paris, France
| | - Sonia R Grover
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute (E.J.T., S.R.G., A.H.S.), Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052 Australia; Department of Paediatrics (E.J.T., S.R.G., A.H.S.), University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology (S.R.G.), Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia; Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, (A.B., P.T.), IE3M, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris 6 University, Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Centre de Référence des Maladies Endocriniennes Rares de la Croissance et des Pathologies Gynécologiques Rares, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 75013 Paris, France; Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (A.B., P.T.), 75654 Paris, France
| | - Anne Bachelot
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute (E.J.T., S.R.G., A.H.S.), Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052 Australia; Department of Paediatrics (E.J.T., S.R.G., A.H.S.), University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology (S.R.G.), Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia; Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, (A.B., P.T.), IE3M, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris 6 University, Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Centre de Référence des Maladies Endocriniennes Rares de la Croissance et des Pathologies Gynécologiques Rares, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 75013 Paris, France; Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (A.B., P.T.), 75654 Paris, France
| | - Philippe Touraine
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute (E.J.T., S.R.G., A.H.S.), Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052 Australia; Department of Paediatrics (E.J.T., S.R.G., A.H.S.), University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology (S.R.G.), Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia; Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, (A.B., P.T.), IE3M, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris 6 University, Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Centre de Référence des Maladies Endocriniennes Rares de la Croissance et des Pathologies Gynécologiques Rares, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 75013 Paris, France; Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (A.B., P.T.), 75654 Paris, France
| | - Andrew H Sinclair
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute (E.J.T., S.R.G., A.H.S.), Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052 Australia; Department of Paediatrics (E.J.T., S.R.G., A.H.S.), University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology (S.R.G.), Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia; Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, (A.B., P.T.), IE3M, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris 6 University, Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Centre de Référence des Maladies Endocriniennes Rares de la Croissance et des Pathologies Gynécologiques Rares, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 75013 Paris, France; Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (A.B., P.T.), 75654 Paris, France
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He H, Teng H, Zhou T, Guo Y, Wang G, Lin M, Sun Y, Si W, Zhou Z, Guo X, Huo R. Unravelling the proteome of adult rhesus monkey ovaries. MOLECULAR BIOSYSTEMS 2014; 10:653-62. [DOI: 10.1039/c3mb70312f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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Spencer JB, Badik JR, Ryan EL, Gleason TJ, Broadaway KA, Epstein MP, Fridovich-Keil JL. Modifiers of ovarian function in girls and women with classic galactosemia. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2013; 98:E1257-65. [PMID: 23690308 PMCID: PMC3701263 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2013-1374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Classic galactosemia is a potentially lethal genetic disorder resulting from profound impairment of galactose-1P uridylyltransferase (GALT). More than 80% of girls and women with classic galactosemia experience primary or premature ovarian insufficiency despite neonatal diagnosis and rigorous lifelong dietary galactose restriction. OBJECTIVE The goal of this study was to test the relationship between markers of ovarian reserve, cryptic residual GALT activity, and spontaneous pubertal development in girls with classic galactosemia. DESIGN AND SETTING This was a cross-sectional study with some longitudinal follow-up in a university research environment. PATIENTS Patients included girls and women with classic galactosemia and unaffected controls, <1 month to 30 years old. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES We evaluated plasma anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and FSH levels, antral follicle counts ascertained by ultrasound, and ovarian function as indicated by spontaneous vs assisted menarche. RESULTS More than 73% of the pre- and postpubertal girls and women with classic galactosemia in this study, ages >3 months to 30 years, demonstrated AMH levels below the 95% confidence interval for AMH among controls of the same age, and both pre- and postpubertal girls and women with classic galactosemia also demonstrated abnormally low antral follicle counts relative to age-matched controls. Predicted residual GALT activity ≥ 0.4% significantly increased the likelihood that a girl with classic galactosemia would demonstrate an AMH level ≥ 0.1 ng/mL. CONCLUSIONS A majority of girls with classic galactosemia demonstrate evidence of diminished ovarian reserve by 3 months of age, and predicted cryptic residual GALT activity is a modifier of ovarian function in galactosemic girls and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica B Spencer
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
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Abstract
Nijmegen breakage syndrome (NBS) is a rare autosomal recessive syndrome of chromosomal instability mainly characterized by microcephaly at birth, combined immunodeficiency and predisposition to malignancies. Due to a founder mutation in the underlying NBN gene (c.657_661del5) the disease is encountered most frequently among Slavic populations. The principal clinical manifestations of the syndrome are: microcephaly, present at birth and progressive with age, dysmorphic facial features, mild growth retardation, mild-to-moderate intellectual disability, and, in females, hypergonadotropic hypogonadism. Combined cellular and humoral immunodeficiency with recurrent sinopulmonary infections, a strong predisposition to develop malignancies (predominantly of lymphoid origin) and radiosensitivity are other integral manifestations of the syndrome. The NBN gene codes for nibrin which, as part of a DNA repair complex, plays a critical nuclear role wherever double-stranded DNA ends occur, either physiologically or as a result of mutagenic exposure. Laboratory findings include: (1) spontaneous chromosomal breakage in peripheral T lymphocytes with rearrangements preferentially involving chromosomes 7 and 14, (2) sensitivity to ionizing radiation or radiomimetics as demonstrated in vitro by cytogenetic methods or by colony survival assay, (3) radioresistant DNA synthesis, (4) biallelic hypomorphic mutations in the NBN gene, and (5) absence of full-length nibrin protein. Microcephaly and immunodeficiency are common to DNA ligase IV deficiency (LIG4 syndrome) and severe combined immunodeficiency with microcephaly, growth retardation, and sensitivity to ionizing radiation due to NHEJ1 deficiency (NHEJ1 syndrome). In fact, NBS was most commonly confused with Fanconi anaemia and LIG4 syndrome. Genetic counselling should inform parents of an affected child of the 25% risk for further children to be affected. Prenatal molecular genetic diagnosis is possible if disease-causing mutations in both alleles of the NBN gene are known. No specific therapy is available for NBS, however, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation may be one option for some patients. Prognosis is generally poor due to the extremely high rate of malignancies. Zespół Nijmegen (Nijmegen breakage syndrome; NBS) jest rzadkim schorzeniem z wrodzoną niestabilnością chromosomową dziedziczącym się w sposób autosomalny recesywny, charakteryzującym się przede wszystkim wrodzonym małogłowiem, złożonymi niedoborami odporności i predyspozycją do rozwoju nowotworów. Choroba występuje najczęściej w populacjach słowiańskich, w których uwarunkowana jest mutacją założycielską w genie NBN (c.657_661del5). Do najważniejszych objawów zespołu zalicza się: małogłowie obecne od urodzenia i postępujące z wiekiem, charakterystyczne cechy dysmorfii twarzy, opóźnienie wzrastania, niepełnosprawność intelektualną w stopniu lekkim do umiarkowanego oraz hipogonadyzm hipogonadotropowy u dziewcząt. Na obraz choroby składają się także: niedobór odporności komórkowej i humoralnej, który jest przyczyną nawracających infekcji, znaczna predyspozycja do rozwoju nowotworów złośliwych (zwłaszcza układu chłonnego), a także zwiększona wrażliwość na promieniowanie jonizujące. Wyniki badań laboratoryjnych wykazują: (1) spontaniczną łamliwość chromosomów w limfocytach T krwi obwodowej, z preferencją do rearanżacji chromosomów 7 i 14, (2) nadwrażliwość na promieniowanie jonizujące lub radiomimetyki, co można wykazać metodami in vitro, (3) radiooporność syntezy DNA, (4) hipomorficzne mutacje na obu allelach genu NBN, oraz (5) brak w komórkach pełnej cząsteczki białka, nibryny. Małogłowie i niedobór odporności występują także w zespole niedoboru ligazy IV (LIG4) oraz w zespole niedoboru NHEJ1. Rodzice powinni otrzymać poradę genetyczną ze względu na wysokie ryzyko (25%) powtórzenia się choroby u kolejnego potomstwa. Możliwe jest zaproponowanie molekularnej diagnostyki prenatalnej jeżeli znane są obie mutacje będące przyczyną choroby. Nie ma możliwości zaproponowania specyficznej terapii, ale przeszczep szpiku może być alternatywą dla niektórych pacjentów. Generalnie prognoza nie jest pomyślna z uwagi na wysokie ryzyko rozwoju nowotworu.
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Fauser BCJM, Diedrich K, Bouchard P, Domínguez F, Matzuk M, Franks S, Hamamah S, Simón C, Devroey P, Ezcurra D, Howles CM. Contemporary genetic technologies and female reproduction. Hum Reprod Update 2011; 17:829-47. [PMID: 21896560 PMCID: PMC3191938 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmr033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 307] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Fifth Evian Annual Reproduction (EVAR) Workshop Meeting discussed knowledge regarding contemporary genetics in female reproduction. METHODS Specialist reproductive medicine clinicians and geneticists delivered presentations based on published literature and current research. The content of this report is based on the expert presentations and subsequent group discussions that took place during this Workshop. RESULTS Numerous ovarian genes with a role in infertility have been identified. Future challenges for genetic screening of patients, such as those with polycystic ovary syndrome, primary ovarian insufficiency or endometriosis, include the identification of high-throughput strategies and how to apply these findings to infertile patients. The identification of high-quality embryos in IVF using objective technologies remains a high priority in order to facilitate single-embryo transfer. Gene expression profiling of cumulus cells surrounding the oocyte, and proteomic and metabolomic approaches in embryo culture media may significantly improve non-invasive embryo quality assessment. CONCLUSIONS The way forward in advancing the knowledge of genes involved in reproduction was considered to be through genome-wide association studies involving large numbers of patients. Establishing international collaboration is required to enable the application of such technologies in sufficient numbers of patients.
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Abstract
PURPOSE Diagnosis of dysgerminoma in the paediatric age group is uncommon, and most cases arise from dysgenetic gonads of 46, XY pure gonadal dysgenesis (PGD) patients. Bilateral gonadectomy is mandatory in these patients. So, the preoperative diagnosis of PGD is important in order to avoid multiple surgical procedures and delayed patient information in the case of a suspected 'ovarian' tumour. Our aim was to discuss preoperative clues that can lead to suspicion of dysgerminoma in the context of PGD. MATERIALS AND METHODS We reviewed the charts of six patients treated for dysgerminoma associated with 46, XY PGD. We focused on particularities of clinical and biological evaluations. RESULTS Median age at diagnosis was 11 years. Pubertal development was absent or incomplete even at late ages. Dysgerminoma was associated with gonadoblastoma foci in all cases. Tumoral marker profile was a normal alfafetoprotein level, a high lactate dehydrogenase level and normal or moderate human chorionic gonadotropin (βHCG) secretion, except for one patient who had a mixed tumour with notably a choriocarcinoma share (high βHCG). Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) level was very high in all patients tested and, interestingly, also in one prepubertal patient. CONCLUSIONS In the case of a suspected ovarian tumour, delayed pubertal development, moderate βHCG level and elevated FSH level are clinical and biological clues to a diagnosis of dysgerminoma in the context of PGD and should prompt karyotype analysis before surgery. Because FSH is an efficient indirect marker of this condition, we suggest including this analysis in the management of gonadal tumours.
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