1
|
Ramos RM, Petroli RJ, D'Alessandre NDR, Guardia GDA, Afonso ACDF, Nishi MY, Domenice S, Galante PAF, Mendonca BB, Batista RL. Small Indels in the Androgen Receptor Gene: Phenotype Implications and Mechanisms of Mutagenesis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 109:68-79. [PMID: 37572362 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad470] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Despite high abundance of small indels in human genomes, their precise roles and underlying mechanisms of mutagenesis in Mendelian disorders require further investigation. OBJECTIVE To profile the distribution, functional implications, and mechanisms of small indels in the androgen receptor (AR) gene in individuals with androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS). METHODS We conducted a systematic review of previously reported indels within the coding region of the AR gene, including 3 novel indels. Distribution throughout the AR coding region was examined and compared with genomic population data. Additionally, we assessed their impact on the AIS phenotype and investigated potential mechanisms driving their occurrence. RESULTS A total of 82 indels in AIS were included. Notably, all frameshift indels exhibited complete AIS. The distribution of indels across the AR gene showed a predominance in the N-terminal domain, most leading to frameshift mutations. Small deletions accounted for 59.7%. Most indels occurred in nonrepetitive sequences, with 15.8% situated within triplet regions. Gene burden analysis demonstrated significant enrichment of frameshift indels in AIS compared with controls (P < .00001), and deletions were overrepresented in AIS (P < .00001). CONCLUSION Our findings underscore a robust genotype-phenotype relationship regarding small indels in the AR gene in AIS, with a vast majority presenting complete AIS. Triplet regions and homopolymeric runs emerged as prone loci for small indels within the AR. Most were frameshift indels, with polymerase slippage potentially explaining half of AR indel occurrences. Complex frameshift indels exhibited association with palindromic runs. These discoveries advance understanding of the genetic basis of AIS and shed light on potential mechanisms underlying pathogenic small indel events.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Martinez Ramos
- Developmental Endocrinology Unit, Hormone and Molecular Genetics Laboratory (LIM/42), Endocrinology Division, Internal Medicine Department, Medical School, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, 05403-000, Brazil
| | - Reginaldo José Petroli
- Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Alagoas (UFAL), Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas-UFAL, Maceió, AL, 57072-900, Brazil
| | | | | | - Ana Caroline de Freitas Afonso
- Developmental Endocrinology Unit, Hormone and Molecular Genetics Laboratory (LIM/42), Endocrinology Division, Internal Medicine Department, Medical School, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, 05403-000, Brazil
| | - Mirian Yumie Nishi
- Developmental Endocrinology Unit, Hormone and Molecular Genetics Laboratory (LIM/42), Endocrinology Division, Internal Medicine Department, Medical School, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, 05403-000, Brazil
| | - Sorahia Domenice
- Developmental Endocrinology Unit, Hormone and Molecular Genetics Laboratory (LIM/42), Endocrinology Division, Internal Medicine Department, Medical School, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, 05403-000, Brazil
| | | | - Berenice Bilharinho Mendonca
- Developmental Endocrinology Unit, Hormone and Molecular Genetics Laboratory (LIM/42), Endocrinology Division, Internal Medicine Department, Medical School, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, 05403-000, Brazil
| | - Rafael Loch Batista
- Developmental Endocrinology Unit, Hormone and Molecular Genetics Laboratory (LIM/42), Endocrinology Division, Internal Medicine Department, Medical School, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, 05403-000, Brazil
- Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo da Faculdade, de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (ICESP), São Paulo, SP, 01246-000, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Smith C, Burugula BB, Dunn I, Aradhya S, Kitzman JO, Yee JL. High-Throughput Splicing Assays Identify Known and Novel WT1 Exon 9 Variants in Nephrotic Syndrome. Kidney Int Rep 2023; 8:2117-2125. [PMID: 37850022 PMCID: PMC10577367 DOI: 10.1016/j.ekir.2023.07.033] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Frasier syndrome (FS) is a rare Mendelian form of nephrotic syndrome (NS) caused by variants which disrupt the proper splicing of WT1. This key transcription factor gene is alternatively spliced at exon 9 to produce 2 isoforms ("KTS+" and "KTS-"), which are normally expressed in the kidney at a ∼2:1 (KTS+:KTS-) ratio. FS results from variants that reduce this ratio by disrupting the splice donor of the KTS+ isoform. FS is extremely rare, and it is unclear whether any variants beyond the 8 already known could cause FS. Methods To prospectively identify other splicing-disruptive variants, we leveraged a massively parallel splicing assay. We tested every possible single nucleotide variant (n = 519) in and around WT1 exon 9 for effects upon exon inclusion and KTS+/- ratio. Results Splice disruptive variants (SDVs) made up 11% of the tested point variants overall and were tightly concentrated near the canonical acceptor and the KTS+/- alternate donors. Our map successfully identified all 8 known FS or focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) variants and 16 additional novel variants which were comparably disruptive to these known pathogenic variants. We also identified 19 variants that, conversely, increased the KTS+/KTS- ratio, of which 2 are observed in unrelated individuals with 46,XX ovotesticular disorder of sex development (46,XX OTDSD). Conclusion This splicing effect map can serve as functional evidence to guide the clinical interpretation of newly observed variants in and around WT1 exon 9.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cathy Smith
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Bala Bharathi Burugula
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Ian Dunn
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Jacob O. Kitzman
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Jennifer Lai Yee
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Nephrology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Van Der Kelen A, Okutman Ö, Javey E, Serdarogullari M, Janssens C, Ghosh MS, Dequeker BJH, Perold F, Kastner C, Kieffer E, Segers I, Gheldof A, Hes FJ, Sermon K, Verpoest W, Viville S. A systematic review and evidence assessment of monogenic gene-disease relationships in human female infertility and differences in sex development. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:218-232. [PMID: 36571510 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [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: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As in other domains of medicine, high-throughput sequencing methods have led to the identification of an ever-increasing number of gene variants in the fields of both male and female infertility. The increasing number of recently identified genes allows an accurate diagnosis for previously idiopathic cases of female infertility and more appropriate patient care. However, robust evidence of the gene-disease relationships (GDR) allowing the proper translation to clinical application is still missing in many cases. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE An evidence-based curation of currently identified genes involved in female infertility and differences in sex development (DSD) would significantly improve both diagnostic performance and genetic research. We therefore performed a systematic review to summarize current knowledge and assess the available GDR. SEARCH METHODS PRISMA guidelines were applied to curate all available information from PubMed and Web of Science on genetics of human female infertility and DSD leading to infertility, from 1 January 1988 to 1 November 2021. The reviewed pathologies include non-syndromic as well as syndromic female infertility, and endocrine and reproductive system disorders. The evidence that an identified phenotype is caused by pathogenic variants in a specific gene was assessed according to a standardized scoring system. A final score (no evidence, limited, moderate, strong, or definitive) was assigned to every GDR. OUTCOMES A total of 45 271 publications were identified and screened for inclusion of which 1078 were selected for gene and variant extraction. We have identified 395 genes and validated 466 GDRs covering all reported monogenic causes of female infertility and DSD. Furthermore, we present a genetic diagnostic flowchart including 105 genes with at least moderate evidence for female infertility and suggest recommendations for future research. The study did not take into account associated genetic risk factor(s) or oligogenic/polygenic causes of female infertility. WIDER IMPLICATIONS We have comprehensively reviewed the existing research on the genetics of female infertility and DSD, which will enable the development of diagnostic panels using validated genes. Whole genome analysis is shifting from predominantly research to clinical application, increasing its diagnostic potential. These new diagnostic possibilities will not only decrease the number of idiopathic cases but will also render genetic counselling more effective for infertile patients and their families.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annelore Van Der Kelen
- Clinical Sciences, Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Centre for Medical Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Özlem Okutman
- Laboratoire de Génétique Médicale LGM, Institut de Génétique Médicale d'Alsace IGMA, INSERM UMR 1112, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.,Laboratoire de Diagnostic Génétique, Unité de Génétique de l'infertilité (UF3472), Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Elodie Javey
- Laboratoires de Diagnostic Génétique, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Münevver Serdarogullari
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Cyprus International University, Northern Cyprus via Mersin 10, Turkey
| | - Charlotte Janssens
- Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Manjusha S Ghosh
- Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bart J H Dequeker
- Clinical Sciences, Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Centre for Medical Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Florence Perold
- Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Claire Kastner
- Institut de Génétique Médicale d'Alsace IGMA, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Emmanuelle Kieffer
- Service de Génétique Médicale, Laboratoires de Diagnostic Génétique, Unité de Diagnostic Préimplantatoire (UF9327), Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Ingrid Segers
- Clinical Sciences, Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Brussels IVF Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Brussels, Belgium.,Research Group Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alexander Gheldof
- Clinical Sciences, Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Centre for Medical Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Frederik J Hes
- Clinical Sciences, Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Centre for Medical Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Karen Sermon
- Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Willem Verpoest
- Clinical Sciences, Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Brussels IVF Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Stéphane Viville
- Laboratoire de Génétique Médicale LGM, Institut de Génétique Médicale d'Alsace IGMA, INSERM UMR 1112, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.,Laboratoire de Diagnostic Génétique, Unité de Génétique de l'infertilité (UF3472), Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Esteban C, Ortiz-Rodz DI, Muñiz-Pérez YI, Ramírez-Vega L, Jiménez-Ricaurte C, Mattei-Torres E, Finkel-Aguilar V. Quality of Life and Psychosocial Well-Being among Intersex-Identifying Individuals in Puerto Rico: An Exploratory Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:2899. [PMID: 36833596 PMCID: PMC9957316 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20042899] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Intersex is an umbrella term used to describe the diversity or differences in the characteristics of physical sexual development. Approximately 1.7% of the population are born intersex, and 1 in every 2000 babies at birth presents genital variation. Unfortunately, there is a lack of research on the health of intersex-identifying persons in Latin America. This study aimed to document experiences of discrimination and violence among self-identifying intersex individuals in Puerto Rico and to determine if there is a significant difference in the quality of life, psychological well-being, and social well-being between intersex-identifying and endosex individuals. METHODS This was a quantitative method pilot study with a cross-sectional approach and exploratory comparative group design. An online survey was used, where a total of 12 self-identifying intersex adult participants were recruited, and 126 endosex adult participants served as a comparative group. RESULTS The findings show that 83% of the participants reported experiences of discrimination and different types of violence due to their intersexuality. There was a significant difference between the intersex-identifying and endosex groups in psychological well-being, including in three of its dimensions (positives relations, autonomy, and environmental mastery). However, there were no significant differences between the groups in quality of life or social well-being. CONCLUSION The findings of this study provide a preliminary understanding of the health disparities of intersex-identifying individuals in Puerto Rico and suggest the need for more profound research, especially the inclusion of other Caribbean and Hispanic countries. The findings also preliminarily imply the need for local and global interventions to reduce physical and mental health disparities and to improve health, quality of life, and well-being among intersex-identifying individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caleb Esteban
- Ponce Campus, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, PR 00716, USA
| | - Derek Israel Ortiz-Rodz
- Ponce Campus, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, PR 00716, USA
| | - Yesibelle I. Muñiz-Pérez
- Ponce Campus, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, PR 00716, USA
| | - Luis Ramírez-Vega
- Ponce Campus, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, PR 00716, USA
| | - Coral Jiménez-Ricaurte
- Ponce Campus, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, PR 00716, USA
| | - Edna Mattei-Torres
- Ponce Campus, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, PR 00716, USA
| | - Victoria Finkel-Aguilar
- Río Piedras Campus, Department of Psychology, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, PR 00931, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Elias FM, Nishi MY, Sircili MHP, Bastista RL, Gomes NL, Ferrari MTM, Costa EMF, Denes FT, Mendonca BB, Domenice S. Elevated plasma miR-210 expression is associated with atypical genitalia in patients with 46,XY differences in sex development. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2022; 10:e2084. [PMID: 36369742 PMCID: PMC9747552 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.2084] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Differences of sex development (DSD) is a term used for conditions in which the chromosomal, gonadal or phenotypical sex is atypical. 46,XY DSD patients frequently present undervirilized external genitalia. The expression of different miRNAs in many organs of the male genital system has been reported, and these miRNAs have been associated with testicular function and its disorders, but no description has been related to DSD conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the plasma expression of miR-210 in 46,XY DSD patients who presented atypical genitalia at birth. METHODS Eighteen 46,XY DSD patients who presented atypical genitalia (undescended testis and/or hypospadias, bifid scrotum or micropenis) at birth and 36 male control individuals were selected. Plasma levels of miR-210 and reference miR-23a were measured using RT-qPCR and the data were analysed by the 2-ΔCt method. RESULTS MiR-210 plasma levels were significantly higher in 46,XY DSD patients with atypical genitalia than in male control subjects (p = 0.0024). A positive association between miR-210 levels and the presence of cryptorchidism and hypospadias (p = 0.0146 and p = 0.0223) was found in these patients. Significantly higher levels of miR-210 were observed in patients with 46,XY DSD and cryptorchidism than in control subjects (p = 0.0118). These results are in agreement with previous literature reports, in which increased levels of miR-210 expression were observed in human testicular tissue from adult males with undescended testes in comparison with samples of descended testes. CONCLUSION Our study showed a positive association between the presence of atypical genitalia and plasma levels of miR-210 expression in the group of patients with 46,XY DSD of unknown aetiology studied. These findings contribute to reveal a new perspective on the role of miRNAs in the development of male external genitalia and the broad spectrum of phenotypes presented by patients with 46,XY DSD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Martins Elias
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular LIM‐42Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São PauloSão PauloBrazil
| | - Mirian Yumi Nishi
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular LIM‐42Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São PauloSão PauloBrazil
| | - Maria Helena Palma Sircili
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular LIM‐42Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São PauloSão PauloBrazil,Departamento de Urologia do Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São PauloSão PauloBrazil
| | - Rafael Loch Bastista
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular LIM‐42Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São PauloSão PauloBrazil
| | - Nathalia Lisboa Gomes
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular LIM‐42Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São PauloSão PauloBrazil
| | - Maria Tereza Martins Ferrari
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular LIM‐42Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São PauloSão PauloBrazil
| | - Elaine Maria Frade Costa
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular LIM‐42Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São PauloSão PauloBrazil
| | - Francisco Tibor Denes
- Departamento de Urologia do Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São PauloSão PauloBrazil
| | - Berenice Bilharinho Mendonca
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular LIM‐42Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São PauloSão PauloBrazil
| | - Sorahia Domenice
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular LIM‐42Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São PauloSão PauloBrazil
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Gomes NL, Batista RL, Nishi MY, Lerário AM, Silva TE, de Moraes Narcizo A, Benedetti AFF, de Assis Funari MF, Faria Junior JA, Moraes DR, Quintão LML, Montenegro LR, Ferrari MTM, Jorge AA, Arnhold IJP, Costa EMF, Domenice S, Mendonca BB. Contribution of Clinical and Genetic Approaches for Diagnosing 209 Index Cases With 46,XY Differences of Sex Development. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:e1797-e1806. [PMID: 35134971 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgac064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Massively parallel sequencing (MPS) technologies have emerged as a first-tier approach for diagnosing several pediatric genetic syndromes. However, MPS has not been systematically integrated into the diagnostic workflow along with clinical/biochemical data for diagnosing 46,XY differences of sex development (DSD). OBJECTIVE To analyze the contribution of phenotypic classification either alone or in association with genetic evaluations, mainly MPS, for diagnosing a large cohort of 46,XY DSD patients. DESIGN/PATIENTS 209 nonsyndromic 46,XY DSD index cases from a Brazilian DSD center were included. Patients were initially classified into 3 subgroups according to clinical and biochemical data: gonadal dysgenesis (GD), disorders of androgen secretion/action, and DSD of unknown etiology. Molecular genetic studies were performed by Sanger sequencing and/or MPS. RESULTS Clinical/biochemical classification into either GD or disorders of hormone secretion/action was obtained in 68.4% of the index cases. Among these, a molecular diagnosis was obtained in 36% and 96.5%, respectively. For the remainder 31.6% classified as DSD of clinically unknown etiology, a molecular diagnosis was achieved in 31.8%. Overall, the molecular diagnosis was achieved in 59.3% of the cohort. The combination of clinical/biochemical and molecular approaches diagnosed 78.9% of the patients. Clinical/biochemical classification matched with the genetic diagnosis in all except 1 case. DHX37 and NR5A1 variants were the most frequent genetic causes among patients with GD and DSD of clinical unknown etiology, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The combination of clinical/biochemical with genetic approaches significantly improved the diagnosis of 46,XY DSD. MPS potentially decreases the complexity of the diagnostic workup as a first-line approach for diagnosing 46,XY DSD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathalia Lisboa Gomes
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento/ LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Unidade de Adrenal, Serviço de Endocrinologia, Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Rafael Loch Batista
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento/ LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mirian Y Nishi
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento/ LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Antônio Marcondes Lerário
- Division of Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Thatiana E Silva
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento/ LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Amanda de Moraes Narcizo
- Laboratório de Sequenciamento em Larga Escala (SELA), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo FMUSP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Anna Flávia Figueredo Benedetti
- Laboratório de Sequenciamento em Larga Escala (SELA), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo FMUSP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariana Ferreira de Assis Funari
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento/ LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José Antônio Faria Junior
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento/ LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Daniela Rodrigues Moraes
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento/ LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lia Mesquita Lousada Quintão
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento/ LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luciana Ribeiro Montenegro
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento/ LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Teresa Martins Ferrari
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento/ LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alexander A Jorge
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento/ LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Unidade de Endocrinologia Genética, Laboratório de Endocrinologia Celular e Molecular LIM25, Disciplina de Endocrinologia da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ivo J P Arnhold
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento/ LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Elaine Maria Frade Costa
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento/ LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sorahia Domenice
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento/ LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Berenice Bilharinho Mendonca
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento/ LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Miclea D, Alkhzouz C, Bucerzan S, Grigorescu-Sido P, Popp RA, Pascanu IM, Cret V, Ghervan C, Blaga L, Zaharie G. Molecular and Cytogenetic Analysis of Romanian Patients with Differences in Sex Development. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:2107. [PMID: 34829455 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11112107] [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: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Differences in sex development (DSD) are often correlated with a genetic etiology. This study aimed to assess the etiology of DSD patients following a protocol of genetic testing. Materials and methods. This study prospectively investigated a total of 267 patients with DSD who presented to Clinical Emergency Hospital for Children Cluj-Napoca between January 2012 and December 2019. Each patient was clinically, biochemically, and morphologically evaluated. As a first intervention, the genetic test included karyotype + SRY testing. A high value of 17-hydroxyprogesterone was found in 39 patients, in whom strip assay analysis of the CYP21A2 gene was subsequently performed. A total of 35 patients were evaluated by chromosomal microarray technique, and 22 patients were evaluated by the NGS of a gene panel. Results. The karyotype analysis established the diagnosis in 15% of the patients, most of whom presented with sex chromosome abnormalities. Genetic testing of CYP21A2 established a confirmation of the diagnosis in 44% of patients tested. SNP array analysis was particularly useful in patients with syndromic DSD; 20% of patients tested presented with pathogenic CNVs or uniparental disomy. Gene panel sequencing established the diagnosis in 11 of the 22 tested patients (50%), and the androgen receptor gene was most often involved in these patients. The genes that presented as pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants or variants of uncertain significance were RSPO1, FGFR1, WT1, CHD7, AR, NIPBL, AMHR2, AR, EMX2, CYP17A1, NR0B1, GNRHR, GATA4, and ATM genes. Conclusion. An evaluation following a genetic testing protocol that included karyotype and SRY gene testing, CYP21A2 analysis, chromosomal analysis by microarray, and high-throughput sequencing were useful in establishing the diagnosis, with a spectrum of diagnostic yield depending on the technique (between 15 and 50%). Additionally, new genetic variants not previously described in DSD were observed.
Collapse
|
8
|
Grimstad F, Kremen J, Streed CG, Dalke KB. The Health Care of Adults with Differences in Sex Development or Intersex Traits Is Changing: Time to Prepare Clinicians and Health Systems. LGBT Health 2021; 8:439-443. [PMID: 34191611 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2021.0018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Historically, the majority of differences in sex development or intersex trait (dsd/I)-specific medical care has been provided by pediatric clinicians, leading to a dearth of adult clinicians qualified to care for this vulnerable population, and pediatricians reticent to transition patients to adult care. Recent changes in routine care of children and infants with dsd/I, including reconsidering the role of early genital surgeries, highlight the critical need to address the gaps in adult dsd/I health care. In this perspective, we describe three key educational and research approaches that can be implemented to build competency to care for adults with dsd/I and improve care across the lifespan.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frances Grimstad
- Division of Gynecology, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jessica Kremen
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Carl G Streed
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Katharine B Dalke
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Midgley PC, Ogilvy-Stuart AL. Editorial: Endocrine Diseases of Newborn: Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, Therapeutic Options and Outcome. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:764710. [PMID: 34631634 PMCID: PMC8495423 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.764710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Amanda Lesley Ogilvy-Stuart
- Neonatal Unit, Rosie Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Knarston IM, Pachernegg S, Robevska G, Ghobrial I, Er PX, Georges E, Takasato M, Combes AN, Jørgensen A, Little MH, Sinclair AH, Ayers KL. An In Vitro Differentiation Protocol for Human Embryonic Bipotential Gonad and Testis Cell Development. Stem Cell Reports 2020; 15:1377-91. [PMID: 33217324 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2020.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [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: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently an in vitro model that fully recapitulates the human embryonic gonad is lacking. Here we describe a fully defined feeder-free protocol to generate early testis-like cells with the ability to be cultured as an organoid, from human induced pluripotent stem cells. This stepwise approach uses small molecules to mimic embryonic development, with upregulation of bipotential gonad markers (LHX9, EMX2, GATA4, and WT1) at day 10 of culture, followed by induction of testis Sertoli cell markers (SOX9, WT1, and AMH) by day 15. Aggregation into 3D structures and extended culture on Transwell filters yielded organoids with defined tissue structures and distinct Sertoli cell marker expression. These studies provide insight into human gonadal development, suggesting that a population of precursor cells may originate from a more lateral region of the mesoderm. Our protocol represents a significant advance toward generating a much-needed human gonad organoid for studying disorders/differences of sex development.
Collapse
|
11
|
Abualsaud D, Hashem M, AlHashem A, Alkuraya FS. Survey of disorders of sex development in a large cohort of patients with diverse Mendelian phenotypes. Am J Med Genet A 2020; 185:2789-2800. [PMID: 32949114 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.61876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Disorders of sex development (DSD) are congenital conditions with atypical development of chromosomal, gonadal, or anatomical sex. The estimated incidence ranges from 1 in 4,500-5,500 for strictly defined "ambiguous genitalia" to 1 in 300 or higher when a broader definition is implemented. In this study, we aim to define DSD phenotypes encountered in a large heterogeneous cohort of molecularly characterized Mendelian disorders in a single center. Data were retrieved for patients with documented abnormal genitalia based on the 2006 consensus criteria. Out of 149 patients (129 families) with compatible human phenotype ontology, 76 patients (68 families) had an identified genetic cause and were included in our analysis. Potentially causal variants were identified in 42 genes, and two patients had a dual molecular diagnosis. Six genes have no associated phenotype in OMIM (PIANP, CELSR2, USP2, FAM179B, TXNDC15, and CCDC96). Thirteen genes have non-DSD OMIM phenotypes, thus we are expanding their phenotype to include DSD. We also highlight how certain disorders are under-recognized despite their established DSD phenotype in OMIM, especially CTU2-related DREAM-PL syndrome and TSPYL1-related sudden infant death with dysgenesis of the testes syndrome. In conclusion, this study of a large heterogeneous Mendelian cohort expands the list of genes and disorders beyond those classically DSD-linked.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dalia Abualsaud
- UCD School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.,Department of Genetics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mais Hashem
- Department of Genetics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amal AlHashem
- Department of Pediatrics, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fowzan S Alkuraya
- Department of Genetics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Sato T, Ishii T, Yamaguchi Y, Ichihashi Y, Ochiai D, Asanuma H, Kuroda T, Hasegawa T. Case Report: Prenatal Genetic Counseling to Parents of Fetuses Suspected of Having Ambiguous Genitalia. Front Pediatr 2020; 8:569548. [PMID: 33520882 PMCID: PMC7838588 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2020.569548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The occurrence of fetuses suspected of having ambiguous genitalia will likely increase in the future. Currently, the impact of prenatal genetic counseling on parents' understanding and psychological preparedness has not been addressed. We provided prenatal genetic counseling to parents of two fetuses suspected of ambiguous genitalia. Case 1: At 22 weeks of gestation, swelling of the labia majora, and a clitoris-like structure were noted despite 46,XY detected in amniotic fluid cells. Case 2: At 28 weeks of gestation, bladder exstrophy and a scrotum-like structure were noted. At 32 weeks (Case 1) and 37 weeks (Case 2) of gestation, we shared information with parents regarding the possible difficulty of legal sex assignment at birth, and a scenario for registration of the birth certificate. At birth, both babies presented with ambiguous genitalia. For both cases, the parents remained calm on seeing their baby's genitalia for the first time. After a month, we shared medical information with parents, including karyotype, testosterone production capacity, and surgical schedule. In both cases parents assigned their respective baby's legal sex as male. Several months later, parents were questioned on prenatal genetic counseling. Case 1: Mother, "I was prepared to address our baby's genitalia calmly." Father, "I understood the procedure of legal sex assignment." Case 2: Mother, "Without counseling, I would have been more upset and worried." Father, "We were assured that multidisciplinary experts would support us." Prenatal genetic counseling provides reassurance to parents, who remain informed and emotionally secure throughout the legal sex assignment of their child.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Sato
- Department of Pediatrics, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,The center for Differences of Sex Development, Keio University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Ishii
- Department of Pediatrics, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,The center for Differences of Sex Development, Keio University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yu Yamaguchi
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Gunma Children's Medical Center, Gunma, Japan
| | - Yosuke Ichihashi
- Department of Pediatrics, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,The center for Differences of Sex Development, Keio University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Daigo Ochiai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Asanuma
- The center for Differences of Sex Development, Keio University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Urology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Kuroda
- The center for Differences of Sex Development, Keio University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Pediatric Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomonobu Hasegawa
- Department of Pediatrics, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,The center for Differences of Sex Development, Keio University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Islam R, Lane S, Williams SA, Becker CM, Conway GS, Creighton SM. Establishing reproductive potential and advances in fertility preservation techniques for XY individuals with differences in sex development. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2019; 91:237-244. [PMID: 31004515 DOI: 10.1111/cen.13994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Discordance between gonadal type and gender identity has often led to an assumption of infertility in patients with differences in sex development (DSD). However, there is now greater recognition of fertility being an important issue for this group of patients. Currently, gonadal tissue that may have fertility potential is not being stored for individuals with DSD and, where gonadectomy forms part of management, is often discarded. The area of fertility preservation has been predominantly driven by oncofertility which is a field dedicated to preserving the fertility of patients undergoing gonadotoxic cancer treatment. The use of fertility preservation techniques could be expanded to include individuals with DSD where functioning gonads are present. METHODS This is a systematic literature review evaluating original research articles and relevant reviews between 1974 and 2018 addressing DSD and fertility, in vitro maturation of sperm, and histological/ultrastructural assessment of gonadal tissue in complete and partial androgen insensitivity syndrome, 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 3 and 5α-reductase deficiency. CONCLUSION Successful clinical outcomes of ovarian tissue cryopreservation are paving the way for similar research being conducted using testicular tissue and sperm. There have been promising results from both animal and human studies leading to cryopreservation of testicular tissue now being offered to boys prior to cancer treatment. Although data are limited, there is evidence to suggest the presence of reproductive potential in the gonads of some individuals with DSD. Larger, more detailed studies are required, but if these continue to be encouraging, individuals with DSD should be given the same information, opportunities and access to fertility preservation as other patient groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rumana Islam
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals, Oxford, UK
| | - Sheila Lane
- Department of Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals, Oxford, UK
| | - Suzannah A Williams
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Christian M Becker
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Oxford Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Gerard S Conway
- Department of Endocrinology, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
| | - Sarah M Creighton
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson UCL Institute of Women's Health, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Abstract
Disorders of sex development (DSD) are a sensitive and stressful condition for the family as well as the treating physician to deal with. The main issue in managing such cases is sex assignment. The decision is influenced by the cultural background, the sex of rearing, clinical features, the biochemical parameters including hormonal studies, the imaging reports, parental preference, fertility potential, and the assessment of mental make-up of the child when possible. In third world countries, there is diagnostic dilemma as most children with DSD present late and a detailed-lengthy work-up often delay their definitive treatment. In this article, the authors try to identify the important clinical features in children presenting with various types of DSD, which may aid in making a quick provisional clinical diagnosis and expediting the diagnostic work-up. The data have been gathered from 38 years of experience of the senior author while managing about 1200 cases of DSD in the pediatric intersex clinic at the tertiary care level institute.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kashish Khanna
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Shilpa Sharma
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Devendra K Gupta
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|