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Brito VN, Canton APM, Seraphim CE, Abreu AP, Macedo DB, Mendonca BB, Kaiser UB, Argente J, Latronico AC. The Congenital and Acquired Mechanisms Implicated in the Etiology of Central Precocious Puberty. Endocr Rev 2023; 44:193-221. [PMID: 35930274 PMCID: PMC9985412 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnac020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The etiology of central precocious puberty (CPP) is multiple and heterogeneous, including congenital and acquired causes that can be associated with structural or functional brain alterations. All causes of CPP culminate in the premature pulsatile secretion of hypothalamic GnRH and, consequently, in the premature reactivation of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. The activation of excitatory factors or suppression of inhibitory factors during childhood represent the 2 major mechanisms of CPP, revealing a delicate balance of these opposing neuronal pathways. Hypothalamic hamartoma (HH) is the most well-known congenital cause of CPP with central nervous system abnormalities. Several mechanisms by which hamartoma causes CPP have been proposed, including an anatomical connection to the anterior hypothalamus, autonomous neuroendocrine activity in GnRH neurons, trophic factors secreted by HH, and mechanical pressure applied to the hypothalamus. The importance of genetic and/or epigenetic factors in the underlying mechanisms of CPP has grown significantly in the last decade, as demonstrated by the evidence of genetic abnormalities in hypothalamic structural lesions (eg, hamartomas, gliomas), syndromic disorders associated with CPP (Temple, Prader-Willi, Silver-Russell, and Rett syndromes), and isolated CPP from monogenic defects (MKRN3 and DLK1 loss-of-function mutations). Genetic and epigenetic discoveries involving the etiology of CPP have had influence on the diagnosis and familial counseling providing bases for potential prevention of premature sexual development and new treatment targets in the future. Global preventive actions inducing healthy lifestyle habits and less exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals during the lifespan are desirable because they are potentially associated with CPP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinicius N Brito
- Discipline of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Department of Internal
Medicine, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, University of Sao
Paulo, Sao Paulo 01246 903, Brazil
| | - Ana P M Canton
- Discipline of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Department of Internal
Medicine, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, University of Sao
Paulo, Sao Paulo 01246 903, Brazil
| | - Carlos Eduardo Seraphim
- Discipline of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Department of Internal
Medicine, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, University of Sao
Paulo, Sao Paulo 01246 903, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula Abreu
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of
Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School,
Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Delanie B Macedo
- Discipline of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Department of Internal
Medicine, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, University of Sao
Paulo, Sao Paulo 01246 903, Brazil
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of
Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School,
Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Núcleo de Atenção Médica Integrada, Centro de Ciências da Saúde,
Universidade de Fortaleza, Fortaleza 60811 905,
Brazil
| | - Berenice B Mendonca
- Discipline of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Department of Internal
Medicine, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, University of Sao
Paulo, Sao Paulo 01246 903, Brazil
| | - Ursula B Kaiser
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of
Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School,
Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jesús Argente
- Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Department of Endocrinology and
Department of Pediatrics, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spanish PUBERE Registry,
CIBER of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, IMDEA
Institute, Madrid 28009, Spain
| | - Ana Claudia Latronico
- Discipline of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Department of Internal
Medicine, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, University of Sao
Paulo, Sao Paulo 01246 903, Brazil
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Zaletaev DV, Nemtsova MV, Strelnikov VV. Epigenetic Regulation Disturbances on Gene Expression in Imprinting Diseases. Mol Biol 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s0026893321050149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Abstract
Puberty marks the end of childhood and is a period when individuals undergo physiological and psychological changes to achieve sexual maturation and fertility. The onset of puberty is first detected as an increase in pulsatile secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). Pubertal onset is regulated by genetic, nutritional, environmental, and socio-economic factors. Disturbances affecting pubertal timing result in adverse health conditions later in life. Human genetic studies show that around 50-80% of the variation in pubertal onset is genetically determined. The genetic control of pubertal timing has been a field of active investigation in attempt to better understand the neuroendocrine control of this relevant period of life. Large populational studies and patient cohort-based studies have provided insights into the genetic regulation of pubertal onset. In this review, we discuss these discoveries and discuss potential mechanisms for how implicated genes may affect pubertal timing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Mancini
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Division of Endocrinology Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, USA.
| | - John C Magnotto
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Division of Endocrinology Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, USA.
| | - Ana Paula Abreu
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Division of Endocrinology Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, USA.
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Huang Y, Grand K, Kimonis V, Butler MG, Jain S, Huang AYW, Martinez-Agosto JA, Nelson SF, Sanchez-Lara PA. Mosaic de novo SNRPN gene variant associated with Prader-Willi syndrome. J Med Genet 2021; 59:719-722. [PMID: 34099539 DOI: 10.1136/jmedgenet-2020-107674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is an imprinting disorder caused by the absence of paternal expressed genes in the Prader-Willi critical region (PWCR) on chromosome 15q11.2-q13. Three molecular mechanisms have been known to cause PWS, including a deletion in the PWCR, uniparental disomy 15 and imprinting defects. RESULTS We report the first case of PWS associated with a single-nucleotide SNRPN variant in a 10-year-old girl presenting with clinical features consistent with PWS, including infantile hypotonia and feeding difficulty, developmental delay with cognitive impairment, excessive eating with central obesity, sleep disturbances, skin picking and related behaviour issues. Whole-exome sequencing revealed a de novo mosaic nonsense variant of the SNRPN gene (c.73C>T, p.R25X) in 10% of DNA isolated from buccal cells and 19% of DNA from patient-derived lymphoblast cells. DNA methylation study did not detect an abnormal methylation pattern in the SNRPN locus. Parental origin studies showed a paternal source of an intronic single-nucleotide polymorphism within the locus in proximity to the SNRPN variant. CONCLUSIONS This is the first report that provides evidence of a de novo point mutation of paternal origin in SNRPN as a new disease-causing mechanism for PWS. This finding suggests that gene sequencing should be considered as part of the diagnostic workup in patients with clinical suspicion of PWS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Katheryn Grand
- Department of Pediatrics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Virginia Kimonis
- Department of Pediatrics, UCI and Children's Hospital of Orange County, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Merlin G Butler
- Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Pediatrics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Suparna Jain
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Cedar-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Alden Yen-Wen Huang
- Institute for Precision Health, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Julian A Martinez-Agosto
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Stanley F Nelson
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Pedro A Sanchez-Lara
- Department of Pediatrics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Pellikaan K, van Woerden GM, Kleinendorst L, Rosenberg AGW, Horsthemke B, Grosser C, van Zutven LJCM, van Rossum EFC, van der Lely AJ, Resnick JL, Brüggenwirth HT, van Haelst MM, de Graaff LCG. The Diagnostic Journey of a Patient with Prader-Willi-Like Syndrome and a Unique Homozygous SNURF-SNRPN Variant; Bio-Molecular Analysis and Review of the Literature. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12060875. [PMID: 34200226 PMCID: PMC8227738 DOI: 10.3390/genes12060875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) is a rare genetic condition characterized by hypotonia, intellectual disability, and hypothalamic dysfunction, causing pituitary hormone deficiencies and hyperphagia, ultimately leading to obesity. PWS is most often caused by the loss of expression of a cluster of genes on chromosome 15q11.2-13. Patients with Prader–Willi-like syndrome (PWLS) display features of the PWS phenotype without a classical PWS genetic defect. We describe a 46-year-old patient with PWLS, including hypotonia, intellectual disability, hyperphagia, and pituitary hormone deficiencies. Routine genetic tests for PWS were normal, but a homozygous missense variant NM_003097.3(SNRPN):c.193C>T, p.(Arg65Trp) was identified. Single nucleotide polymorphism array showed several large regions of homozygosity, caused by high-grade consanguinity between the parents. Our functional analysis, the ‘Pipeline for Rapid in silico, in vivo, in vitro Screening of Mutations’ (PRiSM) screen, showed that overexpression of SNRPN-p.Arg65Trp had a dominant negative effect, strongly suggesting pathogenicity. However, it could not be confirmed that the variant was responsible for the phenotype of the patient. In conclusion, we present a unique homozygous missense variant in SNURF-SNRPN in a patient with PWLS. We describe the diagnostic trajectory of this patient and the possible contributors to her phenotype in light of the current literature on the genotype–phenotype relationship in PWS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karlijn Pellikaan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (K.P.); (A.G.W.R.); (E.F.C.v.R.); (A.J.v.d.L.)
- Dutch Centre of Reference for Prader-Willi Syndrome, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Geeske M. van Woerden
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus University Medical Centre, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands;
- The ENCORE Expertise Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus University Medical Centre, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus University Medical Centre, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (L.J.C.M.v.Z.); (H.T.B.)
| | - Lotte Kleinendorst
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (L.K.); (M.M.v.H.)
| | - Anna G. W. Rosenberg
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (K.P.); (A.G.W.R.); (E.F.C.v.R.); (A.J.v.d.L.)
- Dutch Centre of Reference for Prader-Willi Syndrome, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bernhard Horsthemke
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany; (B.H.); (C.G.)
| | - Christian Grosser
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany; (B.H.); (C.G.)
- Praxis für Humangenetik Tübingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Laura J. C. M. van Zutven
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus University Medical Centre, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (L.J.C.M.v.Z.); (H.T.B.)
| | - Elisabeth F. C. van Rossum
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (K.P.); (A.G.W.R.); (E.F.C.v.R.); (A.J.v.d.L.)
- Obesity Center CGG, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Aart J. van der Lely
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (K.P.); (A.G.W.R.); (E.F.C.v.R.); (A.J.v.d.L.)
| | - James L. Resnick
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA;
| | - Hennie T. Brüggenwirth
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus University Medical Centre, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (L.J.C.M.v.Z.); (H.T.B.)
| | - Mieke M. van Haelst
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (L.K.); (M.M.v.H.)
| | - Laura C. G. de Graaff
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (K.P.); (A.G.W.R.); (E.F.C.v.R.); (A.J.v.d.L.)
- Dutch Centre of Reference for Prader-Willi Syndrome, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- The ENCORE Expertise Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus University Medical Centre, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Academic Centre for Growth Disorders, Erasmus MC Rotterdam, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-618843010
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Thuilleaux D, Laurier V, Copet P, Tricot J, Demeer G, Mourre F, Tauber M, Jauregi J. A model to characterize psychopathological features in adults with Prader-Willi syndrome. Am J Med Genet A 2017; 176:41-47. [PMID: 29150898 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.38525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2017] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
High prevalence of behavioral and psychiatric disorders in adults with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) has been reported in last few years. However, data are confusing and often contradictory. In this article, we propose a model to achieve a better understanding of the psychopathological features in adults with PWS. The study is based on clinical observations of 150 adult inpatients, males and females. Non-parametric statistics were performed to analyse the association of psychopathological profiles with genotype, gender and age. We propose a model of psychiatric disorders in adults with PWS based on cognitive, emotional and behavioural issues. This model defines four psychopathological profiles: Basic, Impulsive, Compulsive, and Psychotic. The Basic profile is defined by traits and symptoms that are present in varying degrees in all persons with PWS. In our cohort, this Basic profile corresponds to 55% of the patients. The rest show, in addition to these characteristics, salient features of impulsivity (Impulsive profile, 19%), compulsivity (Compulsive profile, 7%), or psychosis (Psychotic profile, 19%). The analysis of factors associated with different profiles reveals an effect of genotype on Basic and Psychotic profiles (Deletion: 70% Basic, 9% Psychotic; Non-deletion: 23% Basic, 43% Psychotic) and a positive correlation between male sex and impulsivity, unmediated by sex hormone treatment. This is a clinical study, based on observation proposing an original model to understand the psychiatric and behavioural disorders in adults with PWS. Further studies are needed in order to test the validity of this model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise Thuilleaux
- Centre de Référence Prader-Willi, Hôpital Marin, APHP, Hendaye, France
| | - Virginie Laurier
- Centre de Référence Prader-Willi, Hôpital Marin, APHP, Hendaye, France
| | - Pierre Copet
- Centre de Référence Prader-Willi, Hôpital Marin, APHP, Hendaye, France
| | - Julie Tricot
- Centre de Référence Prader-Willi, Hôpital Marin, APHP, Hendaye, France
| | - Geneviève Demeer
- Centre de Référence Prader-Willi, Hôpital Marin, APHP, Hendaye, France
| | - Fabien Mourre
- Centre de Référence Prader-Willi, Hôpital Marin, APHP, Hendaye, France
| | - Maithé Tauber
- Centre de Référence Prader-Willi, Hôpital des enfants, CHU Purpan,, Toulouse, France
| | - Joseba Jauregi
- Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea-University of the Basque Country, Psychobiology, Donostia, Spain
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Cheon CK. Genetics of Prader-Willi syndrome and Prader-Will-Like syndrome. Ann Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2016; 21:126-135. [PMID: 27777904 PMCID: PMC5073158 DOI: 10.6065/apem.2016.21.3.126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a human imprinting disorder resulting from genomic alterations that inactivate imprinted, paternally expressed genes in human chromosome region 15q11-q13. This genetic condition appears to be a contiguous gene syndrome caused by the loss of at least 2 of a number of genes expressed exclusively from the paternal allele, including SNRPN, MKRN3, MAGEL2, NDN and several snoRNAs, but it is not yet well known which specific genes in this region are associated with this syndrome. Prader-Will-Like syndrome (PWLS) share features of the PWS phenotype and the gene functions disrupted in PWLS are likely to lie in genetic pathways that are important for the development of PWS phenotype. However, the genetic basis of these rare disorders differs and the absence of a correct diagnosis may worsen the prognosis of these individuals due to the endocrine-metabolic malfunctioning associated with the PWS. Therefore, clinicians face a challenge in determining when to request the specific molecular test used to identify patients with classical PWS because the signs and symptoms of PWS are common to other syndromes such as PWLS. This review aims to provide an overview of current knowledge relating to the genetics of PWS and PWLS, with an emphasis on identification of patients that may benefit from further investigation and genetic screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong Kun Cheon
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Pusan National University Children's Hospital, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Korea
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Qureshi IA, Mehler MF. Long non-coding RNAs: novel targets for nervous system disease diagnosis and therapy. Neurotherapeutics 2013; 10:632-46. [PMID: 23817781 PMCID: PMC3805860 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-013-0199-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The human genome encodes tens of thousands of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), a novel and important class of genes. Our knowledge of lncRNAs has grown exponentially since their discovery within the last decade. lncRNAs are expressed in a highly cell- and tissue-specific manner, and are particularly abundant within the nervous system. lncRNAs are subject to post-transcriptional processing and inter- and intra-cellular transport. lncRNAs act via a spectrum of molecular mechanisms leveraging their ability to engage in both sequence-specific and conformational interactions with diverse partners (DNA, RNA, and proteins). Because of their size, lncRNAs act in a modular fashion, bringing different macromolecules together within the three-dimensional context of the cell. lncRNAs thus coordinate the execution of transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and epigenetic processes and critical biological programs (growth and development, establishment of cell identity, and deployment of stress responses). Emerging data reveal that lncRNAs play vital roles in mediating the developmental complexity, cellular diversity, and activity-dependent plasticity that are hallmarks of brain. Corresponding studies implicate these factors in brain aging and the pathophysiology of brain disorders, through evolving paradigms including the following: (i) genetic variation in lncRNA genes causes disease and influences susceptibility; (ii) epigenetic deregulation of lncRNAs genes is associated with disease; (iii) genomic context links lncRNA genes to disease genes and pathways; and (iv) lncRNAs are otherwise interconnected with known pathogenic mechanisms. Hence, lncRNAs represent prime targets that can be exploited for diagnosing and treating nervous system diseases. Such clinical applications are in the early stages of development but are rapidly advancing because of existing expertise and technology platforms that are readily adaptable for these purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irfan A. Qureshi
- />Roslyn and Leslie Goldstein Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York USA
- />Institute for Brain Disorders and Neural Regeneration, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York USA
- />Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York USA
- />Rose F. Kennedy Center for Research on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1410 Pelham Parkway South, Room 401, Bronx, New York 10461 USA
| | - Mark F. Mehler
- />Roslyn and Leslie Goldstein Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York USA
- />Institute for Brain Disorders and Neural Regeneration, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York USA
- />Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York USA
- />Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York USA
- />Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York USA
- />Rose F. Kennedy Center for Research on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1410 Pelham Parkway South, Room 401, Bronx, New York 10461 USA
- />Einstein Cancer Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York USA
- />Ruth L. and David S. Gottesman Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York USA
- />Center for Epigenomics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York USA
- />Institute for Aging Research, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York USA
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Jauregi J, Laurier V, Copet P, Tauber M, Thuilleaux D. Behavioral profile of adults with Prader-Willi syndrome: correlations with individual and environmental variables. J Neurodev Disord 2013; 5:18. [PMID: 23919902 PMCID: PMC3751283 DOI: 10.1186/1866-1955-5-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2013] [Accepted: 07/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Maladaptive behavior has been reported as a phenotypical feature in Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS). It severely limits social adaptation and the quality of life of children and adults with the syndrome. Different factors have been linked with the intensity and form of these behavioral disturbances but there is no consensus about the cause. Consequently, there is still controversy regarding management strategies and there is a need for new data. Methods The behavior of 100 adults with PWS attending a dedicated center was assessed using the Developmental Behavior Checklist for Adults (DBC-A) and the PWS-specific Hyperphagia Questionnaire. The DBC-A was completed separately by trained caregivers at the center and relatives or caregivers in a natural setting. Genotype, gender, age, degree of obesity and cognitive impairment were analyzed as variables with a hypothetical influence on behavioral features. Results Patients showed a relatively high rate of behavioral disturbances other than hyperphagia. Disruptive and social relating were the highest scoring DBC-A subscales whereas anxiety/antisocial and self-absorbed were the lowest. When hospital caregiver and natural caregiver scores were compared, scores for the latter were higher for all subscales except for disruptive and anxiety/antisocial. These effects of institutional management were underlined. In the DBC-A, 22 items have descriptive indications of PWS behavior and were used for further comparisons and correlation analysis. In contrast to previous reports, rates of disturbed behavior were lower in patients with a deletion genotype. However, the behavioral profile was similar for both genotypes. No differences were found in any measurement when comparing type I and type II deletions. The other analyzed variables showed little relevance. Conclusions Significant rates of behavioral disorders were highlighted and their typology described in a large cohort of adults with PWS. The deletion genotype was related to a lower severity of symptoms. Some major behavioral problems, such as hyperphagia, may be well controlled if living circumstances are adapted to the specific requirements of individuals with PWS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseba Jauregi
- Centre de Référence Prader-Willi, Hôpital Marin AP-HP, Hendaye, France.
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Bervini S, Herzog H. Mouse models of Prader-Willi Syndrome: a systematic review. Front Neuroendocrinol 2013; 34:107-19. [PMID: 23391702 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2013.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2012] [Revised: 01/21/2013] [Accepted: 01/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) is a neurodevelopmental genetic disorder caused by loss of expression of imprinted, paternally inherited genes on chromosome 15q11q13. This imprinted gene cluster has its homologous region on mouse chromosome 7C. The extremely well conserved synteny between the human and the murine regions gave origin to the generation of mouse models for PWS, which facilitated investigations of the role and function of single genes or gene clusters in the pathogenesis of this disease. In this review we will describe which mouse models have been generated so far and how they were developed; we will focus on the consequences of single genes' (or gene clusters') loss of expression on the phenotype, highlighting the similarities to the human PWS features. PWS mouse models have brought major improvements in our knowledge about this complex condition, although the mechanisms implicated in its pathogenesis still remain not fully understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandrina Bervini
- Neuroscience Research Program, The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, 384 Victoria Street, Sydney-Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
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Chen LL, Carmichael GG. Long noncoding RNAs in mammalian cells: what, where, and why? WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2010; 1:2-21. [PMID: 21956903 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Not all long, polyadenylated cellular RNAs encode polypeptides. In recent years, it has become apparent that a number of organisms express abundant amounts of transcripts that lack open reading frames or that are retained in the nucleus. Rather than accumulating silently in the cell, we now know that many of these long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important roles in nuclear architecture or in the regulation of gene expression. Here, we discuss some recent progress in our understanding of the functions of a number of important lncRNAs in mammalian cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Ling Chen
- Genetics and Developmental Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA.
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Sinnema M, van Roozendaal KEP, Maaskant MA, Smeets HJM, Engelen JJM, Jonker-Houben N, Schrander-Stumpel CTRM, Curfs LMG. Different distribution of the genetic subtypes of the Prader-Willi syndrome in the elderly. Eur J Hum Genet 2010; 18:993-8. [PMID: 20461108 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2010.67] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a genetic disorder caused by the absent expression of the paternal copy of maternally imprinted genes in chromosome region 15q11-13. The frequencies of different subtypes in PWS are usually given in literature as 70% deletion, 25-30% maternal uniparental disomy (mUPD) and 3-5% others (imprinting centre (IC) defects and translocations). Little is known about factors that influence the frequency of genetic subtypes in PWS. The study sample comprised 102 adults with clinically and genetically confirmed PWS, contacted through the Dutch Prader-Willi Parent Association and through physicians specialized in treating persons with intellectual disabilities. Genetic testing showed 55 persons (54%) with a paternal deletion, 44 persons (43%) with an mUPD and 3 persons (3%) with a defect of the IC. The observed distribution in our study differed from that in literature (70% deletion, 30% mUPD), which was statistically significant (z-score: P<0.05). This was mainly caused by a higher proportion of mUPD in the advanced age groups. Differences in maternal age and BMI of persons with PWS could not explain the differences in distribution across the age groups. Our study population had a much broader age range, compared with other studies, because of a predominance of elderly people (40+ years) with PWS. In other studies, these elderly persons might have been undiagnosed and/or underreported because of a lack of genetic diagnosis. The results underline both the need for correct genetic diagnosis in all persons with PWS and adjustment of the guidelines for preventive management in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margje Sinnema
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Maastricht UMC, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
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Copet P, Jauregi J, Laurier V, Ehlinger V, Arnaud C, Cobo AM, Molinas C, Tauber M, Thuilleaux D. Cognitive profile in a large French cohort of adults with Prader-Willi syndrome: differences between genotypes. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2010; 54:204-215. [PMID: 20136683 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2788.2010.01251.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a rare genetic disorder characterised by developmental abnormalities leading to somatic and psychological symptoms. These include dysmorphic features, impaired growth and sexual maturation, hyperphagia, intellectual delay, learning disabilities and maladaptive behaviours. PWS is caused by a lack of expression of maternally imprinted genes situated in the 15q11-13 chromosome region. The origin is a 'de novo' deletion in the paternal chromosome in 70% of the cases and a maternal uniparental disomy in 25%. The two main genotypes show differences, notably regarding cognitive and behavioural features, but the mechanisms are not clear. This study assessed cognitive impairment in a cohort of adults with genetically confirmed PWS, analysed their profiles of cognitive strengths and weaknesses, and compared the profiles in terms of genotype. METHODS Ninety-nine male and female adults participated, all inpatients on a specialised unit for the multidisciplinary care of PWS. The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS-III) was administered to all patients in identical conditions by the same psychologist. Eighty-five patients were able to cope with the test situation. Their scores were analysed with non-parametric statistical tools. The correlations with sex, age and body mass index were explored. Two genotype groups were compared: deletion (n = 57) and non-deletion (n = 27). RESULTS The distribution of intelligence quotients in the total cohort was non-normal, with the following values (medians): Full Scale Intelligence Quotient (FSIQ): 52.0 (Q1:46.0; Q3:60.0), Verbal Intellectual Quotient (VIQ): 53.0 (Q1:48; Q3:62) and Performance Intellectual Quotient (PIQ): 52.5 (Q1:48; Q3:61). No correlation was found with sex, age or body mass index. Comparison between groups showed no significant difference in FSIQ or VIQ. PIQ scores were significantly better in the deletion group. The total cohort and the deletion group showed the VIQ = PIQ profile, whereas VIQ > PIQ was observed in the non-deletion group. The subtest scores in the two groups showed significant differences, with the deletion group scoring better in three subtests: object assembly, picture arrangement and digit symbol coding. Some relative strengths and weaknesses concerned the total cohort, but others concerned only one genotype. DISCUSSION We documented a global impairment in the intellectual abilities of a large sample of French PWS patients. The scores were slightly lower than those reported in most other studies. Our data confirmed the previously published differences in the cognitive profiles of the two main PWS genotypes and offer new evidence to support this hypothesis. These results could guide future neuropsychological studies to determine the cognitive processing in PWS. This knowledge is essential to improve our understanding of gene-brain-behaviour relationships and to open new perspectives on therapeutic and educational programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Copet
- Hôpital Marin AP-HP, Unité Prader-Willi, Hendaye, France
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