Behavioral and psychiatric manifestations in Cornelia de Lange syndrome

An intragenic duplication in the AFF2 gene associated with Cornelia de Lange syndrome phenotype

Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS, OMIM #122470, #300590, #300882, #610759, and #614701) is a rare congenital disorder that affects the development of multiple organs and is characterized by physical abnormalities and cognitive and behavioral disabilities. Its molecular basis is mainly based on alterations in genes encoding structural and regulatory proteins related to the cohesin complex. Moreover, other transcriptional regulatory factors have been linked to this syndrome. However, additional causative genes are still unknown, since many patients still lack a molecular diagnosis. Herein, we describe a case with multiple affected family members presenting with an intragenic duplication in the AFF2 gene. The direct tandem intragenic duplication of exons 10, 11 and 12 was detected through high-resolution array Comparative Genomic Hybridization and next-generation sequencing technologies. Confirming the X-linked inheritance pattern, the duplication was found in the patient, his mother and his maternal aunt affected (dizygotic twins). Targeted sequencing with Oxford Nanopore Technologies revealed an aberrant transcript which is predominantly expressed in the patient and his aunt. Along with these results, a significant reduction in AFF2 gene expression levels was detected in these two individuals. Clinically both subjects exhibit a classic CdLS phenotype, whereas the mother is mostly unaffected. Consistent with the phenotypical differences observed between the mother and the aunt, there is a marked difference in X-inactivation patterns skewing. Given the crucial role of AFF2 in transcriptional regulation, it is not surprising that AFF2 variants can give rise to CdLS phenotypes. Therefore, the AFF2 gene should be considered for the molecular diagnosis of this syndrome.

Advancing the Clinical and Molecular Understanding of Cornelia de Lange Syndrome: A Multidisciplinary Pediatric Case Series and Review of the Literature

Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) is a complex genetic disorder with distinct facial features, growth limitations, and limb anomalies. Its broad clinical spectrum presents significant challenges in pediatric diagnosis and management. Due to cohesin complex mutations, the disorder's variable presentation requires extensive research to refine care and improve outcomes. This article provides a case series review of pediatric CdLS patients alongside a comprehensive literature review, exploring clinical variability and the relationship between genotypic changes and phenotypic outcomes. It also discusses the evolution of diagnostic and therapeutic techniques, emphasizing innovations in genetic testing, including detecting mosaicism and novel genetic variations. The aim is to synthesize case studies with current research to advance our understanding of CdLS and the effectiveness of management strategies in pediatric healthcare. This work highlights the need for an integrated, evidence-based approach to diagnosis and treatment. It aims to fill existing research gaps and advocate for holistic care protocols and tailored treatment plans for CdLS patients, ultimately improving their quality of life.

Assessment of Quality of Life Using the Kidslife Scale in Individuals With Cornelia de Lange Syndrome

BACKGROUND

Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) is a rare polymalformative genetic disorder with multisystemic involvement. Despite numerous clinical and molecular studies, the specific evaluation of the quality of life (QoL) and its relationship with syndrome-specific risk factors has not been explored.

METHODS

The QoL of 33 individuals diagnosed with CdLS, aged between 4 and 21 years, was assessed using the Kidslife questionnaire. Specifically, the influence of 14 risk factors on overall QoL and 8 of its domains was analyzed.

RESULTS

The study revealed below-median QoL (45.3 percentile), with the most affected domains being physical well-being, personal development, and self-determination. When classifying patients based on their QoL and affected domains, variants in the NIPBL gene, clinical scores ≥11, and severe behavioral and communication issues were found to be the main risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

We emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach to CdLS that encompasses clinical, molecular, psychosocial, and emotional aspects. The "Kidslife questionnaire" proved to be a useful tool for evaluating QoL, risk factors, and the effectiveness of implemented strategies. In this study, we underscore the importance of implementing corrective measures to improve the clinical score. Furthermore, we highlight the necessity of applying specific therapies for behavioral problems after ruling out underlying causes such as pain or gastroesophageal reflux and implementing measures that facilitate communication and promote social interaction.

Genomic analyses in Cornelia de Lange Syndrome and related diagnoses: Novel candidate genes, genotype-phenotype correlations and common mechanisms

Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS) is a rare, dominantly inherited multisystem developmental disorder characterized by highly variable manifestations of growth and developmental delays, upper limb involvement, hypertrichosis, cardiac, gastrointestinal, craniofacial, and other systemic features. Pathogenic variants in genes encoding cohesin complex structural subunits and regulatory proteins (NIPBL, SMC1A, SMC3, HDAC8, and RAD21) are the major pathogenic contributors to CdLS. Heterozygous or hemizygous variants in the genes encoding these five proteins have been found to be contributory to CdLS, with variants in NIPBL accounting for the majority (>60%) of cases, and the only gene identified to date that results in the severe or classic form of CdLS when mutated. Pathogenic variants in cohesin genes other than NIPBL tend to result in a less severe phenotype. Causative variants in additional genes, such as ANKRD11, EP300, AFF4, TAF1, and BRD4, can cause a CdLS-like phenotype. The common role that these genes, and others, play as critical regulators of developmental transcriptional control has led to the conditions they cause being referred to as disorders of transcriptional regulation (or "DTRs"). Here, we report the results of a comprehensive molecular analysis in a cohort of 716 probands with typical and atypical CdLS in order to delineate the genetic contribution of causative variants in cohesin complex genes as well as novel candidate genes, genotype-phenotype correlations, and the utility of genome sequencing in understanding the mutational landscape in this population.

Heterogeneity of Autism Characteristics in Genetic Syndromes: Key Considerations for Assessment and Support

Purpose of Review

Elevated prevalence of autism characteristics is reported in genetic syndromes associated with intellectual disability. This review summarises recent evidence on the behavioural heterogeneity of autism in the following syndromes: Fragile X, Cornelia de Lange, Williams, Prader-Willi, Angelman, Down, Smith-Magenis, and tuberous sclerosis complex. Key considerations for assessment and support are discussed.

Recent Findings

The profile and developmental trajectory of autism-related behaviour in these syndromes indicate some degree of syndrome specificity which may interact with broader behavioural phenotypes (e.g. hypersociability), intellectual disability, and mental health (e.g. anxiety). Genetic subtype and co-occurring epilepsy within syndromes contribute to increased significance of autism characteristics. Autism-related strengths and challenges are likely to be overlooked or misunderstood using existing screening/diagnostic tools and criteria, which lack sensitivity and specificity within these populations.

Summary

Autism characteristics are highly heterogeneous across genetic syndromes and often distinguishable from non-syndromic autism. Autism diagnostic assessment practices in this population should be tailored to specific syndromes. Service provisions must begin to prioritise needs-led support.

The developmental trajectories of the behavioral phenotype and neuropsychiatric functioning in Cornelia de Lange and Rubinstein Taybi syndromes: A longitudinal study

Several changes in the behavioral phenotype arise with the growth of children affected by Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS) and Rubinstein-Taybi Syndrome (RSTS). However, previous research relied on a cross-sectional study design turning into age-related comparisons of different syndromic cohorts to explore age-dependent changes. We aim to outline the variating pathways of the neuropsychiatric functioning across the lifespan in CdLS and RSTS, through the setting up of a longitudinal study design. The sample included 14 patients with CdLS and 15 with RSTS. The assessments were carried out in two different timepoints. Our findings highlight that the cognitive profile of CdLS is subjected to a worsening trend with decreasing Intellectual Quotient (IQ) scores from T0 to T1, whereas RSTS shows a stable IQ over time. Patients affected by RSTS show greater improvements compared to CdLS in communication, daily living skills, social abilities, and motor skills across the lifespan. Both syndromes report an upward trend in behavioral and emotional difficulties even if CdLS exhibit a significant and major deterioration compared to individuals with RSTS. Being aware of the early dysfunctional patterns which might pave the way for later neuropsychiatric impairments is the first step for planning preventive interventions.

Cerebellar Hypoperfusion in Two Patients with Cornelia de Lange Syndrome with Novel NIPBL Variants

Introduction

Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) is a rare congenital malformation characterized by distinctive facial features, short stature, and limb defects. In addition, half of the patients with CdLS exhibit repetitive self-injurious behaviors (SIBs) related to intellectual disability with autistic traits. CdLS is caused by pathogenic variants of genes encoding the cohesin complex pathway, with 70% of these variants identified in the nipped-B-like (NIPBL) gene.

Case Presentation

We report 2 patients with CdLS who exhibited repetitive SIBs. Patient 1, a 40-year-old male, carried a novel heterozygous duplication variant, c.1458dup, p.(Glu487*), in exon 9 of the NIPBL gene. Patient 2, a 49-year-old female, carried a novel heterozygous insertion variant, c.1751_1752ins[A;1652_1751], p.(Asp584Glufs*8), in exon 10 of the NIPBL gene. These variants were predicted to confer loss of function to the protein because of a premature stop codon. In both patients, single-photon emission computed tomography using N-isopropyl-p-[123I] iodoamphetamine (IMP-SPECT) revealed diffuse hypoperfusion in the cerebellum.

Discussion

This report identified 2 novel pathogenic variants in the NIPBL gene and the relationship between SIBs and cerebellar hypoperfusion in patients with CdLS. The cerebellar hypoperfusion might have been caused by the dysfunction of the cohesin complex via the downregulation of the NIPBL gene products. Further studies should be conducted to elucidate the contribution of the NIPBL gene to the development of the cerebello-cerebral cortical circuits associated with behavioral disorders.

Cornelia de Lange Syndrome

Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) is a rare, multifactorial, multisystem disorder that affects approximately 1/10,000-100,000 newborns. Mutations and/or variants have been identified in seven genes that have been associated with the diagnosis of this disorder. As all of them affect the cohesin complex, CdLS is also referred to as a "transcriptomopathy" or "cohesinopathy." The phenotype and presentation vary greatly, though there is a classic phenotype that includes a distinctive craniofacial appearance and growth pattern in addition to limb malformations. Because there are multiple overlapping phenotypes with Cornelia de Lange syndrome and other syndromes and sequences, early diagnosis and management of Cornelia de Lange syndrome is imperative. This will enhance the quality of life for individuals with this disorder, as many are now likely to live well into adulthood.

Executive function, repetitive behaviour and restricted interests in neurodevelopmental disorders

BACKGROUND

Individuals with genetic syndromes show unique profiles of repetitive behaviours and restricted interests (RRBs). The executive dysfunction account of RRBs suggests that in autistic (AUT) individuals executive function impairments underpin RRBs, but not communication and social interaction autistic characteristics.

AIMS

To 1) describe profiles of behavioural manifestations of executive function (EF behaviours) and 2) explore the relationship between EF behaviours and autistic traits across individuals with Cornelia de Lange (CdLS), fragile X (FXS) and Rubinstein-Taybi syndromes (RTS), and AUT individuals.

METHOD

Carers completed the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function - Preschool Version and the Social Communication Questionnaire. Data reporting on 25 individuals with CdLS (Mage = 18.60, SD = 8.94), 25 with FXS (Mage = 18.48, SD = 8.80), 25 with RTS (Mage = 18.60, SD = 8.65) and 25 AUT individuals (Mage = 18.52, SD = 8.65) matched on chronological age and adaptive ability were included in analyses.

RESULTS

All groups showed impairments across EF behaviours compared to two-to-three-year-old typically developing normative samples with no differences between groups. Different EF behaviours predicted RRBs in the syndrome groups with no associations found in the AUT group.

CONCLUSIONS

Syndrome related differences should be considered when developing targeted interventions that focus on EF behaviours and/or RRBs in these groups.

Behavioral markers of social anxiety in Cornelia de Lange Syndrome: A brief systematic review

BACKGROUND

There is evidence that social impairments in Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS) differ from those observed in idiopathic autism as they are characterized mainly by social anxiety. However, the knowledge of the fundamental features of social anxiety symptoms in this target population is limited. This brief systematic review aims to investigate the relationship between social anxiety and CdLS through multiple cross-sectional comparisons.

METHODS

PRISMA-P guidelines were followed, and the literature research was conducted in Pubmed, EBSCOhost, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect using "Cornelia de Lange Syndrome" or "CdLS" and "social anxiety" as search terms.

RESULTS

Six articles met the eligibility criteria. Results show that heightened levels of social anxiety in CdLS individuals occur before and after the social engagement and are mediated by both the nature of the social demand and the familiarity of the examiner they interact with.

LIMITATIONS

The interpretation of results is limited by the wide heterogeneity of patients' age and sample size across the reviewed studies, and by the absence of a unique observational procedure to detect behaviors indicative of social anxiety in syndromic individuals.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings have considerable clinical implications for intervention planning which might be generalized to all people with intellectual disability linked to a genetic syndrome.

Neuropsychiatric Functioning in CDLS: A Detailed Phenotype and Genotype Correlation

Behavioural phenotype and autism-related traits of 38 patients affected by Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) were assessed using a specific neuropsychiatric protocol. Subsequently,we search for possible genotype-phenotype correlations comparing individuals with NIPBL variants and patients with negative molecular results. Firstly results showed a higher percentage of subjects with normal intellectual quotient (IQ) and borderline IQ; adaptive skills were lower than expected for age in all participants. 39.5% of the sample presented with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), NIPBL mutated individuals demonstrated a worse trend in comparison with the clinical diagnosis group. non-truncating individuals displayed no ASD and better communication abilities than truncating individuals. Findings increase our awareness of the strengths and weaknesses points in CdLS individuals.

An Observational Study of Social Interaction Skills and Behaviors in Cornelia de Lange, Fragile X and Rubinstein-Taybi Syndromes

We directly assessed the broader aspects of sociability (social enjoyment, social motivation, social interaction skills and social discomfort) in individuals with Cornelia de Lange (CdLS), fragile X (FXS) and Rubinstein-Taybi syndromes (RTS), and their association with autism characteristics and chronological age in these groups. Individuals with FXS (p < 0.01) and RTS (p < 0.01) showed poorer quality of eye contact compared to individuals with CdLS. Individuals with FXS showed less person and more object attention than individuals with CdLS (p < 0.01). Associations between sociability and autism characteristics and chronological age differed between groups, which may indicate divergence in the development and aetiology of different components of sociability across these groups. Findings indicate that individuals with CdLS, FXS and RTS show unique profiles of sociability.

A report of 2 cases of Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) and an analysis of clinical and genetic characteristics in a Chinese CdLS cohort

BACKGROUND

Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) is a rare dominantly inherited developmental disorder with an estimated prevalence of 0.5-10:100,000 and no racial disparity in prevalence. The aim of this study was to present two unrelated Chinese CdLS individuals with mutations in NIPBL and to perform a comprehensive analysis of a Chinese cohort with CdLS.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Two unrelated Chinese patients complaining of short stature were referred to the outpatient department of Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH). Their clinical data at birth and at the most recent assessment were collected. Mutation analysis was carried out by whole exome sequencing. Twenty-four Chinese cases with CdLS were identified through a systematic review of the literature published between 1987 and 2017.

RESULTS

Two patients presented with typical phenotypes, characteristic complications of CdLS and mutations in the NIPBL gene. The average age at diagnosis of the 26 Chinese cases was higher than that of other cohorts. The frequencies of characteristic manifestations of CdLS were similar with those of other populations.

CONCLUSIONS

By investigating 26 Chinese cases of CdLS, we observed that the clinical data and gene variants in the Chinese cohort of CdLS patients were generally in accordance with those of other populations.

Management of Self-injurious Behaviors in Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Pharmacotherapy Overview

Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), a group of disorders affecting ~1-2% of the general population, are caused by changes in brain development that result in behavioral and cognitive alterations, sensory and motor changes, and speech and language deficits. Neurodevelopmental disorders encompass a heterogeneous group of disorders including, but not limited to, Smith-Magenis syndrome, Lesch-Nyhan disease, cri du chat syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, pervasive developmental disorders, fragile X syndrome, Rett syndrome, Cornelia de Lange syndrome, and Down syndrome. Self-injurious behaviors (SIBs) are common in children with NDDs; depending on the specific NDD, the incidence of SIBs is nearly 100%. The management of SIBs in this population is complex, and little high-quality data exist to guide a consistent approach to therapy. However, managing SIBs is of the utmost importance for the child as well as the family and caregivers. Behavior therapies must be implemented as first-line therapy. If behavioral interventions alone fail, pharmacotherapy becomes an essential part of management plans. The limited available evidence for the use of common pharmacologic agents, such as second-generation antipsychotics, and less common agents, such as clonidine, n-acetylcysteine, riluzole, naltrexone, and topical anesthetics, is reviewed. Additional data from well-designed studies in children with NDDs are needed to gain a better understanding of this common and troublesome problem including efficacy and safety implications associated with pharmacotherapy. Until then, clinicians must rely on the limited available data, clinical expertise, and ongoing systematic monitoring when managing SIBs in children with NDDs.

Diagnosis and management of Cornelia de Lange syndrome: first international consensus statement

Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) is an archetypical genetic syndrome that is characterized by intellectual disability, well-defined facial features, upper limb anomalies and atypical growth, among numerous other signs and symptoms. It is caused by variants in any one of seven genes, all of which have a structural or regulatory function in the cohesin complex. Although recent advances in next-generation sequencing have improved molecular diagnostics, marked heterogeneity exists in clinical and molecular diagnostic approaches and care practices worldwide. Here, we outline a series of recommendations that document the consensus of a group of international experts on clinical diagnostic criteria, both for classic CdLS and non-classic CdLS phenotypes, molecular investigations, long-term management and care planning.

Rings and Bricks: Expression of Cohesin Components is Dynamic during Development and Adult Life

Cohesin complex components exert fundamental roles in animal cells, both canonical in cell cycle and non-canonical in gene expression regulation. Germline mutations in genes coding for cohesins result in developmental disorders named cohesinopaties, of which Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) is the best-known entity. However, a basic description of mammalian expression pattern of cohesins in a physiologic condition is still needed. Hence, we report a detailed analysis of expression in murine and human tissues of cohesin genes defective in CdLS. Using both quantitative and qualitative methods in fetal and adult tissues, cohesin genes were found to be ubiquitously and differentially expressed in human tissues. In particular, abundant expression was observed in hematopoietic and central nervous system organs. Findings of the present study indicate tissues which should be particularly sensitive to mutations, germline and/or somatic, in cohesin genes. Hence, this expression analysis in physiological conditions may represent a first core reference for cohesinopathies.