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Tan Y, Tian H, Mai J, Wang H, Yang M, Liu S. A case of congenital cataracts with hypotrichosis caused by compound heterozygous variants in the LSS gene. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2024; 12:e2320. [PMID: 37947113 PMCID: PMC10767675 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.2320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with biallelic variants in the lanosterol synthase (LSS) gene has been reported to exhibit phenotypes as follows: non-syndromic form of hypotrichosis, congenital cataracts, and alopecia with intellectual disability or growth retardation. However, genotype-phenotype correlations in the LSS gene are still not completely clear. METHODS In this study, we reported a Chinese girl who had congenital cataracts with hypotrichosis. The trio exome sequencing was performed to elucidate the genetic cause of the patient. RESULTS We identified compound heterozygous variants (c.296G>A, p.G99D and c.1025T>G, p.I342S) in the LSS gene. Both variants altered the amino acid coding at highly conserved amino acid residues and were predicted to be deleterious using prediction software. CONCLUSION Our report expands the spectrum of variants in the LSS gene and will be helpful for genotype-phenotype correlations study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Tan
- Department of Medical GeneticsWest China Second University Hospital, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and ChildrenMinistry of Education, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Huan Tian
- Department of Medical GeneticsWest China Second University Hospital, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and ChildrenMinistry of Education, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Jingqun Mai
- Department of Medical GeneticsWest China Second University Hospital, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and ChildrenMinistry of Education, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - He Wang
- Department of Medical GeneticsWest China Second University Hospital, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and ChildrenMinistry of Education, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Mei Yang
- Department of Medical GeneticsWest China Second University Hospital, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and ChildrenMinistry of Education, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Shanling Liu
- Department of Medical GeneticsWest China Second University Hospital, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and ChildrenMinistry of Education, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
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2
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Rudd I, Gill G, Buckley M, Downie L. An incidental finding in prenatal exome sequencing-A case study and review of the clinical and ethical considerations. Am J Med Genet A 2023; 191:2856-2859. [PMID: 37578328 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.63372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
The introduction of genomic testing into prenatal care has come at a rapid pace and has been met with significant clinical and ethical challenges, specifically when dealing with incidental findings. We present the case of a couple in their first pregnancy who were referred to our institution with isolated fetal cataracts on morphology scan. After an unremarkable infectious disease workup and microarray on an amniocentesis sample, the couple opted for fetal whole-exome sequencing to investigate the cataracts further. This investigation did not find any cause for the cataracts but yielded an incidental finding of a de novo pathogenic variant in the SCN1A gene unrelated to the cataracts. Pathogenic variants in the SCN1A gene are strongly associated with severe myoclonic epilepsy of infancy, or Dravet syndrome. After extensive genetic counseling, the couple decided to terminate the pregnancy at 28 weeks' gestation based on this finding. This case highlights some of the important clinical and ethical considerations in prenatal genetic diagnosis, particularly in the group of patients in which there is no phenotypic evidence in-utero of the incidental finding. The case demonstrates the value of frameworks and guidelines to guide management decisions for both clinicians and patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignatius Rudd
- Department of Perinatal Medicine, Mercy Hospital for Women, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Gulvir Gill
- Genetics in the North East, Mercy Hospital for Women, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Buckley
- Randwick Genomics Laboratory, NSW Health Pathology, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lilian Downie
- Genetics in the North East, Mercy Hospital for Women, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Victorian Clinical Genetics Service, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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3
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Abdallah Moady T, Odeh M, Fedida A, Segal Z, Gruber M, Goldfeld M, Kalfon L, Falik-Zaccai TC. Case report: Novel insights into hemorrhagic destruction of the brain, subependymal calcification, and cataracts disease. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1178280. [PMID: 37780041 PMCID: PMC10534027 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1178280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pathogenic variants of the junctional adhesion molecule 3 (JAM3/JAM-C; OMIM#606871) is the cause of the rare recessive disorder called hemorrhagic destruction of the brain, subependymal calcification, and cataracts (HDBSCC, OMIM#613730) disease. A similar phenotype is universal, including congenital cataracts and brain hemorrhages with high mortality rate in the first few weeks of life and with a poor neurologic outcome in survivors. We aim to describe and enlighten novel phenotype and genotype of a new patient and review the literature regarding all reported patients worldwide. Case report We report the case of a prenatal and postnatal phenotype of a new patient with a novel pathogenic loss-of-function variant in JAM3, who presented prenatally with cataracts and brain anomalies and postnatally with brain hemorrhages, failure to thrive (FTT), progressive microcephaly, recurrent posterior capsule opacities, and auditory neuropathy. Discussion This study enlightens novel possible functions of JAM3 in the normal development of the brain, the ocular lenses, the auditory system, and possibly the gastrointestinal tract. This study is the first to report of cataracts evident in as early as 23 weeks of gestation and a rare phenomenon of recurrent posterior capsule opacities despite performing recurrent posterior capsulectomy and anterior vitrectomy. We suggest that auditory neuropathy, which is reported here for the first time, is part of the phenotype of HDBSCC, probably due to an endothelial microvasculature disruption of the peripheral eighth nerve or possibly due to impaired nerve conduction from the synapse to the brainstem. Conclusions Prenatal cataracts, brain anomalies, FTT, and auditory neuropathy are part of the phenotype of the HDBSCC disease. We suggest including JAM3 in the gene list known to cause congenital cataracts, brain hemorrhages, and hearing loss. Further studies should address the auditory neuropathy and FTT phenomena in knockout mice models. We further suggest performing comprehensive ophthalmic, audiologic, and gastroenterologic evaluations for living patients worldwide to further confirm these novel phenomena in this rare entity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marwan Odeh
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar Ilan University, Safed, Israel
- Ob/Gyn Ultrasound Unit, Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya, Israel
| | - Ayalla Fedida
- Institute of Human Genetics, Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya, Israel
| | - Zvi Segal
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar Ilan University, Safed, Israel
- Department of Ophthalmology, Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya, Israel
| | - Maayan Gruber
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar Ilan University, Safed, Israel
- Department of ENT, Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya, Israel
| | - Moshe Goldfeld
- Department of Radiology, Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya, Israel
| | - Limor Kalfon
- Institute of Human Genetics, Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya, Israel
| | - Tzipora C. Falik-Zaccai
- Institute of Human Genetics, Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya, Israel
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar Ilan University, Safed, Israel
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Akkuş N, Duman TA. First Clinical Report of Two RAB3GAP1 Pathogenic Variant in Warburg Micro Syndrome. J Pediatr Genet 2023; 12:193-198. [PMID: 37575647 PMCID: PMC10421685 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1768693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Warburg micro (WARBM) syndrome is an autosomal recessive disease characterized by severe brain and eye abnormalities. Loss-of-function mutations in RAB18, RAB3GAP2, RAB3GAP1, or TBC1D20 can lead to this disease. Here, we present two unrelated WARBM syndrome patients who had an RAB3GAP1 c.559 C > T, (p.Arg187Ter) and c.520 C > T (p.Arg174Ter) homozygous state. Both patients had microcephaly, microphthalmia, microcornea, bilateral congenital cataracts, severe intellectual disability, and congenital hypotonia. Using the method of next-generation sequencing and sanger sequencing, we found two nonsense variations at the splice site in exon 7 of RAB3GAP1 in the WARBM syndrome patients. The mutations were predicted to cause the syndrome due to the early stop codon, and the patients had the WARBM1 syndrome. We present the first clinical report of two different unreported variants with RAB3GAP1 mutation in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nejmiye Akkuş
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Tokat Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat, Türkiye
| | - Tuğba Akın Duman
- Department of Medical Genetics, Haseki Training and Research Hospital, Ministry of Health, Istanbul, Türkiye
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Sims DT, Mattson NR, Huang LC, Lee MD, Bly RA, Gallagher ER, Baran FM, Cabrera MT. Hallermann-Streiff Syndrome in Concordant Monozygotic Twins With Congenital Cataracts, Exudative Retinal Detachments, and One Case of Corneal Perforation Requiring Keratoplasty. Cornea 2023; 42:899-902. [PMID: 37088900 PMCID: PMC10247501 DOI: 10.1097/ico.0000000000003286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We describe the management of Hallermann-Streiff syndrome in monozygotic female twins with congenital cataracts, exudative retinal detachments, and 1 case of corneal descemetocele with associated dellen and subsequent perforation. METHODS This study was a case report and review of the literature. RESULTS Twins 1 and 2 exhibited all 7 cardinal characteristics of Hallermann-Streiff syndrome, presenting with spontaneous lenticular resorption, anterior uveitis, and glaucoma. They underwent bilateral cataract extraction with near total capsulectomy. Both twins experienced recurrent glaucoma, for which twin 1 underwent successful endocyclophotocoagulation in both eyes and twin 2 in the left eye alone. The fellow eye developed 2 sites of perilimbal corneal descemetoceles with associated dellen at the inferotemporal limbal corneal junction leading to spontaneous perforation of 1 site, requiring a full-thickness corneal graft. Both twins developed recurrent bilateral exudative retinal detachments unresponsive to oral prednisolone. Twin 1's last best-corrected visual acuity with aphakic spectacles was 20/260 in the right eye and 20/130 in the left eye at age 4 years and 8 months. Twin 2's last best-corrected visual acuity was 20/130 in each eye at age 4 years and 11 months, over a year after right eye penetrating keratoplasty. CONCLUSIONS We describe 2 rare cases of Hallermann-Streiff syndrome in monozygotic twins complicated by corneal perforation requiring penetrating keratoplasty in 1 eye of 1 twin. Although corneal opacities have been described in this condition, this is the first case of corneal descemetocele in Hallermann-Streiff syndrome. The cornea was stabilized with a relatively favorable visual outcome over 1 year later.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deion T. Sims
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Nicole R. Mattson
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Laura C. Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Division of Ophthalmology, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Randall A. Bly
- Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Emily R. Gallagher
- Division of Craniofacial Medicine, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Francine M. Baran
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Division of Ophthalmology, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Michelle T. Cabrera
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Division of Ophthalmology, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA
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6
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Parekh B, Beil A, Blevins B, Jacobson A, Williams P, Innis JW, Barone Pritchard A, Prasov L. Design and Outcomes of a Novel Multidisciplinary Ophthalmic Genetics Clinic. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:726. [PMID: 36980998 PMCID: PMC10048684 DOI: 10.3390/genes14030726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The Multidisciplinary Ophthalmic Genetics Clinic (MOGC) at the University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center aims to provide medical and ophthalmic genetics care to patients with inherited ocular conditions. We have developed a clinical and referral workflow where each patient undergoes coordinated evaluation by our multidisciplinary team followed by discussions on diagnosis, prognosis, and genetic testing. Testing approaches are specific to each patient and can be targeted (single-gene, gene panel), broad (chromosomal microarray, whole-exome sequencing), or a combination. We hypothesize that this clinic model improves patient outcomes and quality of care. A retrospective chart review of patients in the MOGC from July 2020 to October 2022 revealed that the most common referral diagnoses were congenital cataracts, optic neuropathy, and microphthalmia, with 52% syndromic cases. Within this patient cohort, we saw a 76% uptake for genetic testing, among which 33% received a diagnostic test result. Our results support a tailored approach to genetic testing for specific conditions. Through case examples, we highlight the power and impact of our clinic. By integrating ophthalmic care with medical genetics and counseling, the MOGC has not only helped solve individual patient diagnostic challenges but has aided the greater population in novel genetic discoveries and research towards targeted therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bela Parekh
- University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Kellogg Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Adelyn Beil
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Bridget Blevins
- Kellogg Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Adam Jacobson
- Kellogg Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Pamela Williams
- Kellogg Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Jeffrey W. Innis
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | | | - Lev Prasov
- Kellogg Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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7
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Kozak I, Ali SM, Hoque N, Lin D, Bosley TM. Retinal Findings in Haemorrhagic Destruction of the Brain, Subependymal Calcification, and Congenital Cataracts (HDBSCC): Case Report and Review. Neuroophthalmology 2023; 47:11-19. [PMID: 36798868 PMCID: PMC9928457 DOI: 10.1080/01658107.2022.2072517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe a child from a consanguineous family born with a rare autosomal recessive disorder affecting junctional adhesion molecule 3 (JAM3) causing profound neurological and ophthalmological injury known as haemorrhagic brain destruction, subependymal calcifications, and congenital cataracts (HDBSCC; MIM# 613730). She was the product of an unremarkable pregnancy and was born near to term but was noted shortly after birth to have congenital cataracts, poor vision, increased muscle tone, seizures, and developmental delay. Her older sister had an identical syndrome and had previously been documented to have homozygous mutations in JAM3. Examination in our patient, although difficult because of bilateral central cataracts, revealed very poor vision, attenuated retinal vessels, optic atrophy, and a retinal haemorrhage in the right eye, implying that abnormal development of the retinas and/or optic nerves may at times play a significant role in the poor vision noted in children with HDBSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Kozak
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, Abu-Dhabi, UAE,Mohammed Bin Rashed University, Dubai, UAE,CONTACT Igor Kozak Marina Village, B01/B02, Abu-Dhabi, 62807, UAE
| | - Syed M. Ali
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, Abu-Dhabi, UAE,Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Nicholas Hoque
- Neonatology Unit, Kanad Hospital, Al Ain, UAE,Neonatal Service, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK,Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Doris Lin
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Thomas M. Bosley
- Neuro-ophthalmology Division, The Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA
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8
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Senna I, Piller S, Gori M, Ernst M. The power of vision: calibration of auditory space after sight restoration from congenital cataracts. Proc Biol Sci 2022; 289:20220768. [PMID: 36196538 PMCID: PMC9532985 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2022.0768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Early visual deprivation typically results in spatial impairments in other sensory modalities. It has been suggested that, since vision provides the most accurate spatial information, it is used for calibrating space in the other senses. Here we investigated whether sight restoration after prolonged early onset visual impairment can lead to the development of more accurate auditory space perception. We tested participants who were surgically treated for congenital dense bilateral cataracts several years after birth. In Experiment 1 we assessed participants' ability to understand spatial relationships among sounds, by asking them to spatially bisect three consecutive, laterally separated sounds. Participants performed better after surgery than participants tested before. However, they still performed worse than sighted controls. In Experiment 2, we demonstrated that single sound localization in the two-dimensional frontal plane improves quickly after surgery, approaching performance levels of sighted controls. Such recovery seems to be mediated by visual acuity, as participants gaining higher post-surgical visual acuity performed better in both experiments. These findings provide strong support for the hypothesis that vision calibrates auditory space perception. Importantly, this also demonstrates that this process can occur even when vision is restored after years of visual deprivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Senna
- Applied Cognitive Psychology, Faculty for Computer Science, Engineering, and Psychology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Sophia Piller
- Applied Cognitive Psychology, Faculty for Computer Science, Engineering, and Psychology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Monica Gori
- Unit for Visually Impaired People (U-VIP), Center for Human Technologies, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Marc Ernst
- Applied Cognitive Psychology, Faculty for Computer Science, Engineering, and Psychology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
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9
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Ossandón JP, Zerr P, Shareef I, Kekunnaya R, Röder B. Active vision in sight recovery individuals with a history of long-lasting congenital blindness. eNeuro 2022; 9:ENEURO.0051-22.2022. [PMID: 36163106 PMCID: PMC9532021 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0051-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
What we see is intimately linked to how we actively and systematically explore the world through eye movements. However, it is unknown to what degree visual experience during early development is necessary for such systematic visual exploration to emerge. The present study investigated visual exploration behavior in ten human participants whose sight had been restored only in childhood or adulthood, after a period of congenital blindness due to dense bilateral congenital cataracts. Participants freely explored real-world images while their eye movements were recorded. Despite severe residual visual impairments and gaze instability (nystagmus), visual exploration patterns were preserved in individuals with reversed congenital cataract. Modelling analyses indicated that similar to healthy controls, visual exploration in individuals with reversed congenital cataract was based on the low-level (luminance contrast) and high-level (object components) visual content of the images. Moreover, participants used visual short-term memory representations for narrowing down the exploration space. More systematic visual exploration in individuals with reversed congenital cataract was associated with better object recognition, suggesting that active vision might be a driving force for visual system development and recovery. The present results argue against a sensitive period for the development of neural mechanisms associated with visual exploration.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTHumans explore the visual world with systematic patterns of eye movements, but it is unknown whether early visual experience is necessary for the acquisition of visual exploration. Here, we show that sight recovery individuals who had been born blind demonstrate highly systematic eye movements while exploring real-world images, despite visual impairments and pervasive gaze instability. In fact, their eye movement patterns were predicted by those of normally sighted controls and models calculating eye movements based on low- and high-level visual features, and they moreover took memory information into account. Since object recognition performance was associated with systematic visual exploration it was concluded that eye movements might be a driving factor for the development of the visual system.
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Affiliation(s)
- José P Ossandón
- Biological Psychology and Neuropsychology, Hamburg University, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Paul Zerr
- Biological Psychology and Neuropsychology, Hamburg University, Hamburg, Germany
- Experimental Psychology, Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Idris Shareef
- Child Sight Institute, Jasti V Ramanamma Children's Eye Care Center, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
| | - Ramesh Kekunnaya
- Child Sight Institute, Jasti V Ramanamma Children's Eye Care Center, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
| | - Brigitte Röder
- Biological Psychology and Neuropsychology, Hamburg University, Hamburg, Germany
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10
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Berry V, Pontikos N, Ionides A, Kalitzeos A, Quinlan RA, Michaelides M. Pathogenic variants in the CYP21A2 gene cause isolated autosomal dominant congenital posterior polar cataracts. Ophthalmic Genet 2022; 43:218-223. [PMID: 34748434 DOI: 10.1080/13816810.2021.1998556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Congenital cataracts are the most common cause of visual impairment worldwide. Inherited cataract is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous disease. Here we report disease-causing variants in a novel gene, CYP21A2, causing autosomal dominant posterior polar cataract. Variants in this gene are known to cause autosomal recessive congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). METHODS Using whole-exome sequencing (WES), we have identified disease-causing sequence variants in two families of British and Irish origin, and in two isolated cases of Asian-Indian and British origin. Bioinformatics analysis confirmed these variants as rare with damaging pathogenicity scores. Segregation was tested within the families using direct Sanger sequencing. RESULTS A nonsense variant NM_000500.9 c.955 C > T; p.Q319* was identified in CYP21A2 in two families with posterior polar cataract and in an isolated case with unspecified congenital cataract phenotype. This is the same variant previously linked to CAH and identified as Q318* in the literature. We have also identified a rare missense variant NM_000500.9 c.770 T > C; p.M257T in an isolated case with unspecified congenital cataract phenotype. CONCLUSION This is the first report of separate sequence variants in CYP21A2 associated with congenital cataract. Our findings extend the genetic basis for congenital cataract and add to the phenotypic spectrum of CYP21A2 variants and particularly the CAH associated Q318* variant. CYP21A2 has a significant role in mineralo- and gluco-corticoid biosynthesis. These findings suggest that CYP21A2 may be important for extra-adrenal biosynthesis of aldosterone and cortisol in the eye lens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanita Berry
- Department of Genetics, Ucl Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Nikolas Pontikos
- Department of Genetics, Ucl Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Alex Ionides
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Angelos Kalitzeos
- Department of Genetics, Ucl Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Roy A Quinlan
- School of Biological and Medical Sciences, University of Durham, Durham, UK
| | - Michel Michaelides
- Department of Genetics, Ucl Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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11
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Feng Y, Collignon O, Maurer D, Yao K, Gao X. Brief Postnatal Visual Deprivation Triggers Long-Lasting Interactive Structural and Functional Reorganization of the Human Cortex. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:752021. [PMID: 34869446 PMCID: PMC8635780 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.752021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients treated for bilateral congenital cataracts provide a unique model to test the role of early visual input in shaping the development of the human cortex. Previous studies showed that brief early visual deprivation triggers long-lasting changes in the human visual cortex. However, it remains unknown if such changes interact with the development of other parts of the cortex. With high-resolution structural and resting-state fMRI images, we found changes in cortical thickness within, but not limited to, the visual cortex in adult patients, who experienced transient visual deprivation early in life as a result of congenital cataracts. Importantly, the covariation of cortical thickness across regions was also altered in the patients. The areas with altered cortical thickness in patients also showed differences in functional connectivity between patients and normally sighted controls. Together, the current findings suggest an impact of early visual deprivation on the interactive development of the human cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixuan Feng
- Eye Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Ophthalmology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Olivier Collignon
- Institute of Research in Psychology/Institute of Neuroscience, University of Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium.,Centro Interdipartimentale Mente/Cervello, Università di Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Daphne Maurer
- Department of Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.,The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ke Yao
- Eye Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Ophthalmology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoqing Gao
- Center for Psychological Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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12
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Senna I, Andres E, McKyton A, Ben-Zion I, Zohary E, Ernst MO. Development of multisensory integration following prolonged early-onset visual deprivation. Curr Biol 2021; 31:4879-4885.e6. [PMID: 34534443 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2021.08.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Adult humans make effortless use of multisensory signals and typically integrate them in an optimal fashion.1 This remarkable ability takes many years for normally sighted children to develop.2,3 Would individuals born blind or with extremely low vision still be able to develop multisensory integration later in life when surgically treated for sight restoration? Late acquisition of such capability would be a vivid example of the brain's ability to retain high levels of plasticity. We studied the development of multisensory integration in individuals suffering from congenital dense bilateral cataract, surgically treated years after birth. We assessed cataract-treated individuals' reliance on their restored visual abilities when estimating the size of an object simultaneously explored by touch. Within weeks to months after surgery, when combining information from vision and touch, they developed a multisensory weighting behavior similar to matched typically sighted controls. Next, we tested whether cataract-treated individuals benefited from integrating vision with touch by increasing the precision of size estimates, as it occurs when integrating signals in a statistically optimal fashion.1 For participants retested multiple times, such a benefit developed within months after surgery to levels of precision indistinguishable from optimal behavior. To summarize, the development of multisensory integration does not merely depend on age, but requires extensive multisensory experience with the world, rendered possible by the improved post-surgical visual acuity. We conclude that early exposure to multisensory signals is not essential for the development of multisensory integration, which can still be acquired even after many years of visual deprivation.
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Wang X, Wang D, Wang Q, Huang W, Dongye M, Zhang X, Lin D, Lin Z, Li J, Hu W, Li X, Lin X, Zhong Q, Chen W, Lin H. Broadening the Mutation Spectrum in GJA8 and CHMP4B: Novel Missense Variants and the Associated Phenotypes in Six Chinese Han Congenital Cataracts Families. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:713284. [PMID: 34722561 PMCID: PMC8554029 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.713284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To broaden the mutation and phenotype spectrum of the GJA8 and CHMP4B genes and to reveal genotype-phenotype correlations in a cohort of Chinese patients with congenital cataracts (CCs). Methods: Six Chinese Han families with CCs inherited in an autosomal dominant (AD) pattern were recruited for this study. All patients underwent full ocular examinations. Genomic DNA was extracted from the leukocytes of peripheral blood collected from all available patients and their unaffected family members. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed on all probands and at least one of their parents. Candidate variants were further confirmed by Sanger sequencing. Bioinformatic analysis with several computational predictive programs was performed to assess the impacts of the candidate variants on the structure and function of the proteins. Results: Four heterozygous candidate variants in three different genes (CRYBB2, GJA8, and CHMP4B) were identified in affected individuals from the six families, including two novel missense variants (GJA8: c.64G > C/p. G22R, and CHMP4B: c.587C > G/p. S196C), one missense mutation (CRYBB2: c.562C > T/p. R188C), and one small deletion (GJA8: c.426_440delGCTGGAGGGGACCCT/p.143_147delLEGTL). The three missense mutations were predicted as deleterious in all four computational prediction programs. In the homologous model, the GJA8: p.143_147delLEGTL mutation showed a sequence deletion of five amino acids at the cytoplasmic loop of the Cx50 protein, close to the third transmembrane domain. Patients carrying mutations in the same gene showed similar cataract phenotypes at a young age, including total cataracts, Y-sutural with fetal nuclear cataracts, and subcapsular cataracts. Conclusion: This study further expands the mutation spectrum and genotype-phenotype correlation of CRYBB2, GJA8, and CHMP4B underlying CCs. This study sheds light on the importance of comparing congenital cataract phenotypes in patients at the same age stage. It offers clues for the pathogenesis of CCs and allows for an early prenatal diagnosis for families carrying these genetic variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dongni Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiwei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weiming Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Meimei Dongye
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xulin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Duoru Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhuoling Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weiling Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoshan Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiuping Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weirong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haotian Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Center for Precision Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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14
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Chen D, Zhu S. Whole-exome sequencing identification of a recurrent CRYBB2 variant in a four-generation Chinese family with congenital nuclear cataracts. Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:1375. [PMID: 34650623 PMCID: PMC8506933 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital cataracts is the most common cause of visual impairment and blindness in children. Although there have been extensive studies into the pathogenesis of congenital cataracts, the pathogenic mechanism underlying the recurrent variant CRYBB2:c.62T>A(p.I21N) has not been previously reported. Thus, the present study aimed to use whole-exome sequencing (WES) to identify potential genetic variants and investigate how they may have induced the occurrence of cataracts in a four-generation Chinese family with congenital nuclear cataracts. The medical history of this family was recorded and WES was conducted for one proband. Sanger sequencing was used to verify the presence of the putative variant in all participants. PolyPhen-2, SIFT and ProtScale were used to analyze the effect of the identified variants on protein function and hydrophobicity, and Pymol was used to show the structure of the wild-type (Wt) and mutant β-crystallin B2 (CRYBB2) protein. Full-length Wt-CRYBB2 or mutant-CRYBB2 (I21N-CRYBB2) were fused to green fluorescent protein (GFP), and the recombinant plasmids were transfected into HeLa cells. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blotting were used to detect the expression levels of CRYBB2 mRNA and protein. Immunofluorescence and flow cytometry analyses were used to detect protein localization and apoptosis, respectively. A recurrent variant CRYBB2:c.62T>A(p.I21N) was identified in a four-generation Chinese family with congenital nuclear cataracts. Multiple-sequence alignment of CRYBB2 demonstrated that codon 21 was highly conserved. Pymol revealed that the structure of the I21N-CRYBB2 protein was distinct from that of Wt-CRYBB2. PolyPhen-2 predicted that it had a variant provean score 1.0, suggesting it was 'probably damaging', and SIFT predicted it had a variant provean score of -5.113, indicating it was 'deleterious'. ProtScale indicated that the hydrophobicity of the mutation site was significantly reduced. The protein expression levels of the I21N-CRYBB2 were decreased compared with the Wt-CRYBB2. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed that the variant I21N-CRYBB2 protein tended to accumulate around the nucleus, and flow cytometry analysis indicated that it increased cell apoptosis. Furthermore, I21N-CRYBB2 induced the activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR). In conclusion, a pathogenic variant of CRYBB2:c.62T>A(p.I21N) was identified via WES in a four-generation Chinese family with congenital nuclear cataracts. Through biological analysis, it was found that the variant induced abnormal protein aggregation, activated the UPR and triggered excessive cell apoptosis, which may lead to the occurrence of congenital nuclear cataracts in this family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doudou Chen
- Eye School of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610075, P.R. China.,Department of Ophthalmology, Ineye Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610032, P.R. China.,Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province Ophthalmopathy Prevention & Cure and Visual Function Protection, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610032, P.R. China
| | - Siquan Zhu
- Eye School of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610075, P.R. China.,Department of Ophthalmology, Ineye Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610032, P.R. China.,Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province Ophthalmopathy Prevention & Cure and Visual Function Protection, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610032, P.R. China.,Department of Ophthalmology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100006, P.R. China
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15
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Casto C, Dipasquale V, Ceravolo I, Gambadauro A, Aliberto E, Galletta K, Granata F, Ceravolo G, Falzia E, Riva A, Piccolo G, Cutrupi MC, Striano P, Accogli A, Zara F, Di Rosa G, Gitto E, Calì E, Efthymiou S, Salpietro V, Houlden H, Chimenz R. Prominent and Regressive Brain Developmental Disorders Associated with Nance-Horan Syndrome. Brain Sci 2021; 11:1150. [PMID: 34573171 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11091150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Nance-Horan syndrome (NHS) is a rare X-linked developmental disorder caused mainly by loss of function variants in the NHS gene. NHS is characterized by congenital cataracts, dental anomalies, and distinctive facial features, and a proportion of the affected individuals also present intellectual disability and congenital cardiopathies. Despite identification of at least 40 distinct hemizygous variants leading to NHS, genotype-phenotype correlations remain largely elusive. In this study, we describe a Sicilian family affected with congenital cataracts and dental anomalies and diagnosed with NHS by whole-exome sequencing (WES). The affected boy from this family presented a late regression of cognitive, motor, language, and adaptive skills, as well as broad behavioral anomalies. Furthermore, brain imaging showed corpus callosum anomalies and periventricular leukoencephalopathy. We expand the phenotypic and mutational NHS spectrum and review potential disease mechanisms underlying the central neurological anomalies and the potential neurodevelopmental features associated with NHS.
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16
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Bai D, Wang J, Li T, Chan R, Atalla M, Chen RC, Khazaneh MT, An RJ, Stathopulos PB. Differential Domain Distribution of gnomAD- and Disease-Linked Connexin Missense Variants. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22157832. [PMID: 34360596 PMCID: PMC8346055 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22157832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Twenty-one human genes encode connexins, a family of homologous proteins making gap junction (GJ) channels, which mediate direct intercellular communication to synchronize tissue/organ activities. Genetic variants in more than half of the connexin genes are associated with dozens of different Mendelian inherited diseases. With rapid advances in DNA sequencing technology, more variants are being identified not only in families and individuals with diseases but also in people in the general population without any apparent linkage to Mendelian inherited diseases. Nevertheless, it remains challenging to classify the pathogenicity of a newly identified connexin variant. Here, we analyzed the disease- and Genome Aggregation Database (gnomAD, as a proxy of the general population)-linked variants in the coding region of the four disease-linked α connexin genes. We found that the most abundant and position-sensitive missense variants showed distinct domain distribution preference between disease- and gnomAD-linked variants. Plotting missense variants on topological and structural models revealed that disease-linked missense variants are highly enriched on the structurally stable/resolved domains, especially the pore-lining domains, while the gnomAD-linked missense variants are highly enriched in the structurally unstable/unresolved domains, especially the carboxyl terminus. In addition, disease-linked variants tend to be on highly conserved residues and those positions show evolutionary co-variation, while the gnomAD-linked missense variants are likely on less conserved residue positions and on positions without co-variation. Collectively, the revealed distribution patterns of disease- and gnomAD-linked missense variants further our understanding of the GJ structure–biological function relationship, which is valuable for classifying the pathogenicity of newly identified connexin variants.
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17
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Nieves-Moreno M, Noval S, Peralta J, Palomares-Bralo M, del Pozo A, Garcia-Miñaur S, Santos-Simarro F, Vallespin E. Expanding the Phenotypic Spectrum of PAX6 Mutations: From Congenital Cataracts to Nystagmus. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12050707. [PMID: 34065151 PMCID: PMC8151272 DOI: 10.3390/genes12050707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Congenital aniridia is a complex ocular disorder, usually associated with severe visual impairment, generally caused by mutations on the PAX6 gene. The clinical phenotype of PAX6 mutations is highly variable, making the genotype–phenotype correlations difficult to establish. Methods: we describe the phenotype of eight patients from seven unrelated families with confirmed mutations in PAX6, and very different clinical manifestations. Results: Only two patients had the classical aniridia phenotype while the other two presented with aniridia-related manifestations, such as aniridia-related keratopathy or partial aniridia. Congenital cataracts were the main manifestation in three of the patients in this series. All the patients had nystagmus and low visual acuity. Conclusions: The diagnosis of mild forms of aniridia is challenging, but these patients have a potentially blinding hereditary disease that might present with a more severe phenotype in future generations. Clinicians should be aware of the mild aniridia phenotype and request genetic testing to perform an accurate diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Nieves-Moreno
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain; (S.N.); (J.P.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Susana Noval
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain; (S.N.); (J.P.)
| | - Jesus Peralta
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain; (S.N.); (J.P.)
| | - María Palomares-Bralo
- Department of Molecular Developmental Disorders, Medical and Molecular Genetics Institue (INGEMM) IdiPaz, CIBERER, Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Angela del Pozo
- Department of Bioinformatics, Medical and Molecular Genetics Institue (INGEMM) IdiPaz, CIBERER, Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Sixto Garcia-Miñaur
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Medical and Molecular Genetics Institue (INGEMM) IdiPaz, CIBERER, Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain; (S.G.-M.); (F.S.-S.)
| | - Fernando Santos-Simarro
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Medical and Molecular Genetics Institue (INGEMM) IdiPaz, CIBERER, Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain; (S.G.-M.); (F.S.-S.)
| | - Elena Vallespin
- Department of Molecular Ophthalmology, Medical and Molecular Genetics Institue (INGEMM) IdiPaz, CIBERER, Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain;
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18
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Fernández-Alcalde C, Nieves-Moreno M, Noval S, Peralta JM, Montaño VEF, del Pozo Á, Santos-Simarro F, Vallespín E. Molecular and Genetic Mechanism of Non-Syndromic Congenital Cataracts. Mutation Screening in Spanish Families. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:580. [PMID: 33923544 PMCID: PMC8072554 DOI: 10.3390/genes12040580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Our purpose was to identify mutations responsible for non-syndromic congenital cataracts through the implementation of next-generation sequencing (NGS) in our center. A sample of peripheral blood was obtained from probands and willing family members and genomic DNA was extracted from leukocytes. DNA was analyzed implementing a panel (OFTv2.1) including 39 known congenital cataracts disease genes. 62 probands from 51 families were recruited. Pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants were identified in 32 patients and 25 families; in 16 families (64%) these were de novo mutations. The mutation detection rate was 49%. Almost all reported mutations were autosomal dominant. Mutations in crystallin genes were found in 30% of the probands. Mutations in membrane proteins were detected in seven families (two in GJA3 and five in GJA8). Mutations in LIM2 and MIP were each found in three families. Other mutations detected affected EPHA2, PAX6, HSF4 and PITX3. Variants classified as of unknown significance were found in 5 families (9.8%), affecting CRYBB3, LIM2, EPHA2, ABCB6 and TDRD7. Mutations lead to different cataract phenotypes within the same family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celia Fernández-Alcalde
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain; (M.N.-M.); (S.N.); (J.M.P.)
| | - María Nieves-Moreno
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain; (M.N.-M.); (S.N.); (J.M.P.)
| | - Susana Noval
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain; (M.N.-M.); (S.N.); (J.M.P.)
| | - Jesús M. Peralta
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain; (M.N.-M.); (S.N.); (J.M.P.)
| | - Victoria E. F. Montaño
- Department of Molecular Ophthalmology, Medical and Molecular Genetics Institute (INGEMM) IdiPaz, CIBERER, Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain; (V.E.F.M.); (E.V.)
| | - Ángela del Pozo
- Department of Clinical Bioinformatics, Medical and Molecular Genetics Institute (INGEMM) IdiPaz, CIBERER, Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Fernando Santos-Simarro
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Medical and Molecular Genetics Institute (INGEMM) IdiPaz, CIBERER, Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Elena Vallespín
- Department of Molecular Ophthalmology, Medical and Molecular Genetics Institute (INGEMM) IdiPaz, CIBERER, Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain; (V.E.F.M.); (E.V.)
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Chen W, Lan L, Xiao W, Li J, Liu J, Zhao F, Wang CD, Zheng Y, Chen W, Cai Y. Reduced Functional Connectivity in Children With Congenital Cataracts Using Resting-State Electroencephalography Measurement. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:657865. [PMID: 33935639 PMCID: PMC8079630 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.657865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Numerous task-based functional magnetic resonance imaging studies indicate the presence of compensatory functional improvement in patients with congenital cataracts. However, there is neuroimaging evidence that shows decreased sensory perception or cognition information processing related to visual dysfunction, which favors a general loss hypothesis. This study explored the functional connectivity between visual and other networks in children with congenital cataracts using resting state electroencephalography. Methods Twenty-one children with congenital cataracts (age: 8.02 ± 2.03 years) and thirty-five sex- and age-matched normal sighted controls were enrolled to investigate functional connectivity between the visual cortex and the default mode network, the salience network, and the cerebellum network during resting state electroencephalography (eyes closed) recordings. Result The congenital cataract group was less active, than the control group, in the occipital, temporal, frontal and limbic lobes in the theta, alpha, beta1 and beta2 frequency bands. Additionally, there was reduced alpha-band connectivity between the visual and somatosensory cortices and between regions of the frontal and parietal cortices associated with cognitive and attentive control. Conclusion The results indicate abnormalities in sensory, cognition, motion and execution functional connectivity across the developing brains of children with congenital cataracts when compared with normal controls. Reduced frontal alpha activity and alpha-band connectivity between the visual cortex and salience network might reflect attenuated inhibitory information flow, leading to higher attentional states, which could contribute to adaptation of environmental change in this group of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liping Lan
- Department of Otolaryngology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Institute of Hearing and Speech-Language Science, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiahong Li
- Department of Otolaryngology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Institute of Hearing and Speech-Language Science, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiahao Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Institute of Hearing and Speech-Language Science, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fei Zhao
- Department of Speech and Language Therapy and Hearing Science, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, United Kingdom.,Department of Hearing and Speech Science, Xinhua College, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chang-Dong Wang
- School of Data and Computer Science, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yiqing Zheng
- Department of Otolaryngology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Institute of Hearing and Speech-Language Science, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weirong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuexin Cai
- Department of Otolaryngology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Institute of Hearing and Speech-Language Science, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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20
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Chen W, He S, Hu L, Zhu J, Xie W, Xiang D. Ultrasound biomicroscopy for the assessment of postoperative complications after congenital cataract surgery. Quant Imaging Med Surg 2021; 11:1483-1489. [PMID: 33816184 DOI: 10.21037/qims-20-185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Background The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) in the evaluation of postoperative complications in children with congenital cataracts. Methods A retrospective study was conducted between September 2012 and December 2016 at Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center. Red reflex test and high-resolution bag/balloon UBM were performed to evaluate postoperative congenital cataracts. The red reflex test results were recorded, and UBM imaging results were recorded and analyzed. Different postoperative complications were classified based on the UBM imaging features, and a second procedure was performed accordingly. The UBM images were compared with the images captured from the intraoperative videos. Results In total, we looked at 120 eyes in 96 patients (65 males and 31 females) in the present study. The age of the cohort was 3-76 months. A total of 51 eyes with poor red reflex were included. There were complications in 46 eyes after congenital cataract surgery, as detected by UBM, including posterior capsular opacification (n=29 eyes), pupil block (n=8 eyes), synechia (n=5 eyes), hyphema (n=1 eye), and abnormal intraocular lens (IOL) placement (n=3 eyes). UBM images showed specific features of postoperative complications. Conclusions UBM is a valuable tool for the early evaluation of postoperative complications of congenital cataracts, especially for those with media opacities or when pupil dilation is not possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wensi Chen
- Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shiping He
- Department of Cataract, Aier Eye Hospital of Zhongshan Xiaolan, Zhongshan, China
| | - Lanxiang Hu
- Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie Zhu
- Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wanhua Xie
- Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Daoman Xiang
- Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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21
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Zhou D, Wang Q, Liu H. A novel mutation in RAB3GAP1 gene in Chinese patient causing the Warburg micro syndrome: A case report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e22902. [PMID: 33466118 PMCID: PMC7808449 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000022902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Warburg Micro syndrome is a rare, autosomal recessive disorder characterized by multiple organ abnormalities involving the ocular, nervous, and genital systems. This case report describes a novel mutation in the RAB3GAP1 gene associated with Warburg Micro syndrome. PATIENT CONCERNS A 6-month-old female infant with bilateral congenital cataracts and developmental delay was referred to our department for further assessment. She presented with facial dysmorphic features, including a prominent forehead, microphthalmia, wide nasal bridge, relatively narrow mouth, large anteverted ears, and micrognathia. DIAGNOSES The patient was diagnosed with Warburg Micro syndrome based on clinical manifestations, as well as a novel homozygous mutation in RAB3GAP1: c.75-2A>C. Both parents were identified as heterozygotic carriers of this mutation. INTERVENTIONS Bilateral cataract extraction and anterior vitrectomy were performed at age 6 months, followed by physical rehabilitation. Convex lenses were used to protect the eyes postoperatively until intraocular lens implantation. OUTCOMES Although the patient received physical rehabilitation, she suffered global developmental delay. LESSONS The c.75-2A>C mutation in RAB3GAP1 expands the spectrum of known mutations in this gene, and it may be associated with Warburg Micro syndrome. Genetic counselors may wish to take this finding into consideration, especially given the poor prognosis associated with the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Zhou
- Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases in Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education
| | - Qiu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases in Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hanmin Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases in Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education
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Muir AM, Cohen JL, Sheppard SE, Guttipatti P, Lo TY, Weed N, Doherty D, DeMarzo D, Fagerberg CR, Kjærsgaard L, Larsen MJ, Rump P, Löhner K, Hirsch Y, Zeevi DA, Zackai EH, Bhoj E, Song Y, Mefford HC. Bi-allelic Loss-of-Function Variants in NUP188 Cause a Recognizable Syndrome Characterized by Neurologic, Ocular, and Cardiac Abnormalities. Am J Hum Genet 2020; 106:623-631. [PMID: 32275884 PMCID: PMC7212259 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2020.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Nucleoporins (NUPs) are an essential component of the nuclear-pore complex, which regulates nucleocytoplasmic transport of macromolecules. Pathogenic variants in NUP genes have been linked to several inherited human diseases, including a number with progressive neurological degeneration. We present six affected individuals with bi-allelic truncating variants in NUP188 and strikingly similar phenotypes and clinical courses, representing a recognizable genetic syndrome; the individuals are from four unrelated families. Key clinical features include congenital cataracts, hypotonia, prenatal-onset ventriculomegaly, white-matter abnormalities, hypoplastic corpus callosum, congenital heart defects, and central hypoventilation. Characteristic dysmorphic features include small palpebral fissures, a wide nasal bridge and nose, micrognathia, and digital anomalies. All affected individuals died as a result of respiratory failure, and five of them died within the first year of life. Nuclear import of proteins was decreased in affected individuals' fibroblasts, supporting a possible disease mechanism. CRISPR-mediated knockout of NUP188 in Drosophila revealed motor deficits and seizure susceptibility, partially recapitulating the neurological phenotype seen in affected individuals. Removal of NUP188 also resulted in aberrant dendrite tiling, suggesting a potential role of NUP188 in dendritic development. Two of the NUP188 pathogenic variants are enriched in the Ashkenazi Jewish population in gnomAD, a finding we confirmed with a separate targeted population screen of an international sampling of 3,225 healthy Ashkenazi Jewish individuals. Taken together, our results implicate bi-allelic loss-of-function NUP188 variants in a recessive syndrome characterized by a distinct neurologic, ophthalmologic, and facial phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison M Muir
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetic Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Jennifer L Cohen
- Division of Human Genetics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Sarah E Sheppard
- Division of Human Genetics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Pavithran Guttipatti
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Tsz Y Lo
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Natalie Weed
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetic Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Dan Doherty
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetic Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA 98105, USA; Brotman Baty Institute for Precision Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Danielle DeMarzo
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | | | - Lars Kjærsgaard
- Hans Christian Andersen Children's Hospital, Odense University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Martin J Larsen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Odense University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Patrick Rump
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Katharina Löhner
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Yoel Hirsch
- The Committee for Prevention of Jewish Genetic Diseases, Dor Yeshorim, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - David A Zeevi
- The Committee for Prevention of Jewish Genetic Diseases, Dor Yeshorim, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Elaine H Zackai
- Division of Human Genetics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Elizabeth Bhoj
- Division of Human Genetics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Yuanquan Song
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Heather C Mefford
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetic Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA 98105, USA; Brotman Baty Institute for Precision Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
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23
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Tătaru CI, Voinea LM, Tătaru CP, Sima G. Clinical and therapeutic particularities of congenital cataracts in pediatric patients with Down syndrome. Rom J Ophthalmol 2020; 64:168-75. [PMID: 32685783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: This study aims to identify clinical and therapeutic surgical particularities and postoperative complications encountered in children suffering from Down syndrome and congenital cataract, as well as the existence of a correlation with associated systemic anomalies. Methods: A retrospective interventional study that analyzes cases of congenital cataracts operated on a group of 14 children with Down syndrome, respectively on 26 eyes, was performed. The age of the children at the time of the surgery, the presence of associated ocular and systemic anomalies, the employed surgical technique, the frequency and the type of postoperative complications, were examined. Results: Cataracts present at birth, with recommendations for surgical treatment, were rare among children suffering from Down syndrome, but their frequency increased with age. Most children had systemic anomalies, but also other, usually multiple, ocular anomalies. The rate of postoperative complications was higher than among children with congenital cataracts, but without Down syndrome. In six cases, more than one complication/ case was identified. It was not possible to establish a clear correlation between the number and type of the postoperative complication and the systemic anomalies, nor was it possible to establish a correlation with the functional visual outcomes, because those children had other important ocular anomalies as well. Conclusions: Congenital cataracts with recommendations for surgical treatment in children suffering from Down syndrome have a low incidence, but an increase in frequency can be noticed with age. The recommended surgical technique is the one that involves maneuvers for the prevention of visual axis re-opacification. Per primam implantation is definitely indicated. The risk of postoperative complications is high, in terms of both frequency and number, with the possibility that more than one complication occurs, unrelated to a particular systemic anomaly, in one patient.
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Hernández V, Pascual-Camps I, Aparisi MJ, Martínez-Matilla M, Martínez F, Cerón JA, Pedrola L. Great clinical variability of Nance Horan syndrome due to deleterious NHS mutations in two unrelated Spanish families. Ophthalmic Genet 2019; 40:553-557. [PMID: 31755796 DOI: 10.1080/13816810.2019.1692362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Background: Nance-Horan syndrome (NHS) is an X-linked rare congenital disorder caused by mutations in the NHS gene. Clinical manifestations include congenital cataracts, facial and dental dysmorphism and, in some cases, intellectual disability. The aim of the present work was to identify the genetic cause of this disease in two unrelated Spanish NHS families and to determine the relative involvement of this gene in the pathogenesis.Materials and methods: Four members of a two-generation family, three males and one female (Family 1), and seven members of a three-generation family, two males and five females (Family 2) were recruited and their index cases were screened for mutations in the NHS gene and 26 genes related with ocular congenital anomalies by NGS (Next Generation Sequencing).Results: Two pathogenic variants were found in the NHS gene: a nonsense mutation (p.Arg373X) and a frameshift mutation (p.His669ProfsX5). These mutations were found in the two unrelated NHS families with different clinical manifestations.Conclusions: In the present study, we identified two truncation mutations (one of them novel) in the NHS gene, associated with NHS. Given the wide clinical variability of this syndrome, NHS may be difficult to detect in individuals with subtle clinical manifestations or when congenital cataracts are the primary clinical manifestation which makes us suspect that it can be underdiagnosed. Combination of genetic studies and clinical examinations are essential for the clinical diagnosis optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Hernández
- Genetics Unit, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Valencia, Spain
| | - I Pascual-Camps
- Department of Ophthalmology, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Valencia, Spain
| | - M J Aparisi
- Genomic Unit, Health Research Institute Hospital La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - M Martínez-Matilla
- Genomic Unit, Health Research Institute Hospital La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - F Martínez
- Genetics Unit, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Valencia, Spain.,Genomic Unit, Health Research Institute Hospital La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - J A Cerón
- Genetics Unit, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Valencia, Spain
| | - L Pedrola
- Genomic Unit, Health Research Institute Hospital La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
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25
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Segalowitz SJ, Sternin A, Lewis TL, Dywan J, Maurer D. Electrophysiological evidence of altered visual processing in adults who experienced visual deprivation during infancy. Dev Psychobiol 2017; 59:375-389. [PMID: 28181225 DOI: 10.1002/dev.21502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Revised: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 01/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
We examined the role of early visual input in visual system development by testing adults who had been born with dense bilateral cataracts that blocked all patterned visual input during infancy until the cataractous lenses were removed surgically and the eyes fitted with compensatory contact lenses. Patients viewed checkerboards and textures to explore early processing regions (V1, V2), Glass patterns to examine global form processing (V4), and moving stimuli to explore global motion processing (V5). Patients' ERPs differed from those of controls in that (1) the V1 component was much smaller for all but the simplest stimuli and (2) extrastriate components did not differentiate amongst texture stimuli, Glass patterns, or motion stimuli. The results indicate that early visual deprivation contributes to permanent abnormalities at early and mid levels of visual processing, consistent with enduring behavioral deficits in the ability to process complex textures, global form, and global motion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Terri L Lewis
- McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.,The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jane Dywan
- Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daphne Maurer
- McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.,The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
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26
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Calderwood L, Holm IA, Teot LA, Anselm I. Adrenal Insufficiency in Mitochondrial Disease: A Rare Case of GFER-Related Mitochondrial Encephalomyopathy and Review of the Literature. J Child Neurol 2016; 31:190-4. [PMID: 26018198 DOI: 10.1177/0883073815587327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2014] [Accepted: 04/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
GFER-related mitochondrial encephalomyopathy has been previously described only in 3 siblings of a consanguineous Moroccan family. Their phenotype included congenital cataracts, hypotonia, developmental delay, and sensorineural hearing loss. Multiple mitochondrial respiratory chain complex deficiencies were identified on muscle biopsy. We describe a now-19-year-old woman with adrenal insufficiency, lactic acidosis, congenital cataracts, and respiratory insufficiency secondary to mitochondrial disorder, who was reported by North et al (1996) as a toddler. Compound heterozygous GFER mutations c.373C>T (Q125X) and c.581G>A (R194 H) were recently discovered in this patient. The purpose of this report is (1) to expand the phenotype this ultra-rare disorder and (2) to provide a review of the literature describing the unique finding of adrenal insufficiency in patients with molecularly confirmed disorders of mitochondrial metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurel Calderwood
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ingrid A Holm
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Manton Center for Orphan Diseases Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lisa A Teot
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Irina Anselm
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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27
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Abstract
We report a 10-year-old Caucasian male identified with copy number variation detected by microarray analysis including a maternally inherited 15q11.2 microdeletion involving 4 genes, paternally inherited 13q12.2 microdeletion with 10 genes, and a de novo 2q14.3 duplication involving 4 genes. He had a history of speech delay, cognitive deficits, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and a posterior lenticonus cataract removed at 5 yr of age. The genes on chromosomes 2 and 13 are not known to be involved with cataract formation, which lends further support of the role of the 15q11.2 region and additional evidence for phenotypic expansion of the 15q11.2 BP1-BP2 microdeletion (termed Burnside-Butler) syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adria M Jerkovich
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Merlin G Butler
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
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28
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Van Zutphen AR, Lin S, Fletcher BA, Hwang SA. A population-based case-control study of extreme summer temperature and birth defects. Environ Health Perspect 2012; 120:1443-9. [PMID: 23031822 PMCID: PMC3491926 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1104671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2011] [Accepted: 06/27/2012] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although hyperthermia is a recognized animal teratogen and maternal fever has been associated with birth defects in humans, data on the relationship between high environmental temperatures and birth defects are limited. OBJECTIVE To determine whether pregnancies are potentially vulnerable to the weather extremes anticipated with climate change, we evaluated the relationship between extreme summer temperature and the occurrence of birth defects. METHODS We performed a population-based case-control study by linking the New York State Congenital Malformations Registry to birth certificates for the years 1992-2006. We selected nonmalformed infants from a 10% random sample of live births as controls. We assigned meteorologic data based on maternal residence at birth, summarized universal apparent temperature (UAT; degrees Fahrenheit) across the critical period of embryogenesis, and estimated adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) with multivariable logistic regression, controlling for confounders available on the birth certificate. RESULTS Among 6,422 cases and 59,328 controls that shared at least 1 week of the critical period in summer, a 5-degree increase in mean daily minimum UAT was significantly associated with congenital cataracts (aOR = 1.51; 95% CI: 1.14, 1.99). Congenital cataracts were significantly associated with all ambient temperature indicators as well: heat wave, number of heat waves, and number of days above the 90th percentile. Inconsistent associations with a subset of temperature indicators were observed for renal agenesis/hypoplasia (positive) and anophthalmia/microphthalmia and gastroschisis (negative). CONCLUSIONS We found positive and consistent associations between multiple heat indicators during the relevant developmental window and congenital cataracts which should be confirmed with other data sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alissa R Van Zutphen
- Bureau of Environmental and Occupational Epidemiology, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York 12237, USA.
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Wirth MG, Russell-Eggitt IM, Craig JE, Elder JE, Mackey DA. Aetiology of congenital and paediatric cataract in an Australian population. Br J Ophthalmol 2002; 86:782-6. [PMID: 12084750 PMCID: PMC1771196 DOI: 10.1136/bjo.86.7.782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/08/2002] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Paediatric cataract is a major cause of childhood blindness. Several genes associated with congenital and paediatric cataracts have been identified. The aim was to determine the incidence of cataract in a population, the proportion of hereditary cataracts, the mode of inheritance, and the clinical presentation. METHODS The Royal Children's Hospital and the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital have a referral base for almost all paediatric patients with cataracts in south eastern Australia. The database contains cases seen over the past 25 years. The medical histories of these patients were reviewed. RESULTS 421 patients with paediatric cataract were identified, which gives an estimated incidence of 2.2 per 10,000 births. Of the 342 affected individuals with a negative family history, 50% were diagnosed during the first year of life, and 56/342 (16%) were associated with a recognised systemic disease or syndrome. Unilateral cataract was identified in 178/342 (52%) of sporadic cases. 79 children (from 54 nuclear families) had a positive family history. Of these 54 families, 45 were recruited for clinical examination and DNA collection. Ten nuclear families were subsequently found to be related, resulting in four larger pedigrees. Thus, 39 families have been studied. The mode of inheritance was autosomal dominant in 30 families, X linked in four, autosomal recessive in two, and uncertain in three. In total, 178 affected family members were examined; of these 8% presented with unilateral cataracts and 43% were diagnosed within the first year of life. CONCLUSIONS In the paediatric cataract population examined, approximately half of the patients were diagnosed in the first year of life. More than 18% had a positive family history of cataracts. Of patients with hereditary cataracts 8% presented with unilateral involvement. Identification of the genes that cause paediatric and congenital cataract should help clarify the aetiology of some sporadic and unilateral cataracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- M G Wirth
- Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
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King FA, Yarbrough CJ. Studies in neurobiology and aging at the United States National Institutes of health-sponsored regional primate research centers. Am J Primatol 1994; 34:41-50. [PMID: 31936977 PMCID: PMC7159694 DOI: 10.1002/ajp.1350340109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/1993] [Revised: 09/24/1993] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The seven NIH-sponsored Regional Primate Research Centers conduct a wide variety of studies in the neurosciences and on aging. Monkeys and chimpanzees are investigated to validate the results of research obtained with lower species. In addition, primates are often the only species with the appropriate characteristics for studying a particular health problem or certain behavioral or biological principles. One neurological disorder for which the primate model has proven crucial is Parkinson's disease. The surgical implantation of dopaminergic cells and tissue containing a growth factor has been developed in the primate model, and is now being evaluated clinically in humans with Parkinsonism. In addition to neurological diseases such as Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy, the visual system is a strong focus of basic and applied research at the Centers. In 1981, two neuroscientists whose basic research on vision with application to pediatric ophthalmology took place in part at the New England Regional Primate Research Center, were honored with the Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine. Currently, vision studies at the Yerkes Regional Primate Research Center, for example, focus on myopia, post-surgical treatment of congenital cataracts, adult cataract development and treatment, and laser surgery to correct corneal abnormalities. At the Wisconsin Regional Primate Research Center, the role of diet in visual impairment is evaluated during infancy. Diet is also studied to determine its role in the aging process, and the effects of aging on memory. Further, brain cells and other components of the nervous system in aging are also being investigated at these centers. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- F A King
- Yerkes Regional Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - C J Yarbrough
- Yerkes Regional Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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