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Le Nabec A, Blotas C, Briset A, Collobert M, Férec C, Moisan S. 3D Chromatin Organization Involving MEIS1 Factor in the cis-Regulatory Landscape of GJB2. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23136964. [PMID: 35805969 PMCID: PMC9266880 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23136964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The human genome is covered by 8% of candidate cis-regulatory elements. The identification of distal acting regulatory elements and an understanding of their action are crucial to determining their key role in gene expression. Disruptions of such regulatory elements and/or chromatin conformation are likely to play a critical role in human genetic diseases. Non-syndromic hearing loss (i.e., DFNB1) is mostly due to GJB2 (Gap Junction Beta 2) variations and DFNB1 large deletions. Although several GJB2 cis-regulatory elements (CREs) have been described, GJB2 gene regulation remains not well understood. We investigated the endogenous effect of these CREs with CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) disruptions and observed GJB2 expression. To decipher the GJB2 regulatory landscape, we used the 4C-seq technique and defined new chromatin contacts inside the DFNB1 locus, which permit DNA loops and long-range regulation. Moreover, through ChIP-PCR, we determined the involvement of the MEIS1 transcription factor in GJB2 expression. Taken together, the results of our study enable us to describe the 3D DFNB1 regulatory landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anaïs Le Nabec
- University Brest, Inserm, EFS, UMR 1078, GGB, F-29200 Brest, France; (C.B.); (A.B.); (M.C.); (C.F.)
- Correspondence: or twitter@anaisnabec (A.L.N.); (S.M.); Tel.: +33-2-98-01-65-84 (A.L.N.); +33-2-98-01-65-67 (S.M.)
| | - Clara Blotas
- University Brest, Inserm, EFS, UMR 1078, GGB, F-29200 Brest, France; (C.B.); (A.B.); (M.C.); (C.F.)
| | - Alinéor Briset
- University Brest, Inserm, EFS, UMR 1078, GGB, F-29200 Brest, France; (C.B.); (A.B.); (M.C.); (C.F.)
| | - Mégane Collobert
- University Brest, Inserm, EFS, UMR 1078, GGB, F-29200 Brest, France; (C.B.); (A.B.); (M.C.); (C.F.)
| | - Claude Férec
- University Brest, Inserm, EFS, UMR 1078, GGB, F-29200 Brest, France; (C.B.); (A.B.); (M.C.); (C.F.)
| | - Stéphanie Moisan
- University Brest, Inserm, EFS, UMR 1078, GGB, F-29200 Brest, France; (C.B.); (A.B.); (M.C.); (C.F.)
- Laboratoire de Génétique Moléculaire et d’Histocompatibilité, CHRU Brest, UMR 1078, F-29200 Brest, France
- Correspondence: or twitter@anaisnabec (A.L.N.); (S.M.); Tel.: +33-2-98-01-65-84 (A.L.N.); +33-2-98-01-65-67 (S.M.)
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Safka Brozkova D, Uhrova Meszarosova A, Lassuthova P, Varga L, Staněk D, Borecká S, Laštůvková J, Čejnová V, Rašková D, Lhota F, Gašperíková D, Seeman P. The Cause of Hereditary Hearing Loss in GJB2 Heterozygotes-A Comprehensive Study of the GJB2/DFNB1 Region. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12050684. [PMID: 34062854 PMCID: PMC8147375 DOI: 10.3390/genes12050684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hearing loss is a genetically heterogeneous sensory defect, and the frequent causes are biallelic pathogenic variants in the GJB2 gene. However, patients carrying only one heterozygous pathogenic (monoallelic) GJB2 variant represent a long-lasting diagnostic problem. Interestingly, previous results showed that individuals with a heterozygous pathogenic GJB2 variant are two times more prevalent among those with hearing loss compared to normal-hearing individuals. This excess among patients led us to hypothesize that there could be another pathogenic variant in the GJB2 region/DFNB1 locus. A hitherto undiscovered variant could, in part, explain the cause of hearing loss in patients and would mean reclassifying them as patients with GJB2 biallelic pathogenic variants. In order to detect an unknown causal variant, we examined 28 patients using NGS with probes that continuously cover the 0.4 Mb in the DFNB1 region. An additional 49 patients were examined by WES to uncover only carriers. We did not reveal a second pathogenic variant in the DFNB1 region. However, in 19% of the WES-examined patients, the cause of hearing loss was found to be in genes other than the GJB2. We present evidence to show that a substantial number of patients are carriers of the GJB2 pathogenic variant, albeit only by chance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Safka Brozkova
- Neurogenetic laboratory, Department of Paediatric Neurology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic; (A.U.M.); (P.L.); (D.S.); (P.S.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Anna Uhrova Meszarosova
- Neurogenetic laboratory, Department of Paediatric Neurology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic; (A.U.M.); (P.L.); (D.S.); (P.S.)
| | - Petra Lassuthova
- Neurogenetic laboratory, Department of Paediatric Neurology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic; (A.U.M.); (P.L.); (D.S.); (P.S.)
| | - Lukáš Varga
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Comenius University, 85107 Bratislava, Slovakia;
- Diabgene Laboratory, Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 84505 Bratislava, Slovakia; (S.B.); (D.G.)
| | - David Staněk
- Neurogenetic laboratory, Department of Paediatric Neurology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic; (A.U.M.); (P.L.); (D.S.); (P.S.)
| | - Silvia Borecká
- Diabgene Laboratory, Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 84505 Bratislava, Slovakia; (S.B.); (D.G.)
| | - Jana Laštůvková
- Department of Medical Genetics, Masaryk Hospital in Usti nad Labem, Regional Health Corporation, 40011 Ústí nad Labem, Czech Republic; (J.L.); (V.Č.)
| | - Vlasta Čejnová
- Department of Medical Genetics, Masaryk Hospital in Usti nad Labem, Regional Health Corporation, 40011 Ústí nad Labem, Czech Republic; (J.L.); (V.Č.)
| | - Dagmar Rašková
- Centre for Medical Genetics and Reproductive Medicine GENNET, 17000 Prague, Czech Republic; (D.R.); (F.L.)
| | - Filip Lhota
- Centre for Medical Genetics and Reproductive Medicine GENNET, 17000 Prague, Czech Republic; (D.R.); (F.L.)
| | - Daniela Gašperíková
- Diabgene Laboratory, Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 84505 Bratislava, Slovakia; (S.B.); (D.G.)
| | - Pavel Seeman
- Neurogenetic laboratory, Department of Paediatric Neurology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic; (A.U.M.); (P.L.); (D.S.); (P.S.)
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Fukunaga I, Oe Y, Chen C, Danzaki K, Ohta S, Koike A, Ikeda K, Kamiya K. Activin/Nodal/TGF-β Pathway Inhibitor Accelerates BMP4-Induced Cochlear Gap Junction Formation During in vitro Differentiation of Embryonic Stem Cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:602197. [PMID: 33968919 PMCID: PMC8097046 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.602197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in gap junction beta-2 (GJB2), the gene that encodes connexin 26 (CX26), are the most frequent cause of hereditary deafness worldwide. We recently developed an in vitro model of GJB2-related deafness (induced CX26 gap junction-forming cells; iCX26GJCs) from mouse induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) by using Bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) signaling-based floating cultures (serum-free culture of embryoid body-like aggregates with quick aggregation cultures; hereafter, SFEBq cultures) and adherent cultures. However, to use these cells as a disease model platform for high-throughput drug screening or regenerative therapy, cell yields must be substantially increased. In addition to BMP4, other factors may also induce CX26 gap junction formation. In the SFEBq cultures, the combination of BMP4 and the Activin/Nodal/TGF-β pathway inhibitor SB431542 (SB) resulted in greater production of isolatable CX26-expressing cell mass (CX26+ vesicles) and higher Gjb2 mRNA levels than BMP4 treatment alone, suggesting that SB may promote BMP4-mediated production of CX26+ vesicles in a dose-dependent manner, thereby increasing the yield of highly purified iCX26GJCs. This is the first study to demonstrate that SB accelerates BMP4-induced iCX26GJC differentiation during stem cell floating culture. By controlling the concentration of SB supplementation in combination with CX26+ vesicle purification, large-scale production of highly purified iCX26GJCs suitable for high-throughput drug screening or regenerative therapy for GJB2-related deafness may be possible.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Kazusaku Kamiya
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Pandya A, O'Brien A, Kovasala M, Bademci G, Tekin M, Arnos KS. Analyses of del(GJB6-D13S1830) and del(GJB6-D13S1834) deletions in a large cohort with hearing loss: Caveats to interpretation of molecular test results in multiplex families. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2020; 8:e1171. [PMID: 32067424 PMCID: PMC7196463 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.1171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mutations involving the closely linked GJB2 and GJB6 at the DFNB1 locus are a common genetic cause of profound congenital hearing loss in many populations. In some deaf GJB2 heterozygotes, a 309 kb deletion involving the GJB6 has been found to be the cause for hearing loss when inherited in trans to a GJB2 mutation. METHODS We screened 2,376 probands from a National DNA Repository of deaf individuals. RESULTS Fifty-two of 318 heterozygous probands with pathogenic GJB2 sequence variants had a GJB6 deletion. Additionally, eight probands had an isolated heterozygous GJB6 deletion that did not explain their hearing loss. In two deaf subjects, including one proband, a homozygous GJB6 deletion was the cause for their hearing loss, a rare occurrence not reported to date. CONCLUSION This study represents the largest US cohort of deaf individuals harboring GJB2 and GJB6 variants, including unique subsets of families with deaf parents. Testing additional members to clarify the phase of GJB2/GJB6 variants in multiplex families was crucial in interpreting clinical significance of the variants in the proband. It highlights the importance of determining the phase of GJB2/GJB6 variants when interpreting molecular test results especially in multiplex families with assortative mating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arti Pandya
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetics and Metabolism, UNC Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Alexander O'Brien
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetics and Metabolism, UNC Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Michael Kovasala
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetics and Metabolism, UNC Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Guney Bademci
- Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics, John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Mustafa Tekin
- Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics, John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Kathleen S Arnos
- Department of Science, Technology, & Mathematics, Gallaudet University, Washington, DC, USA
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del Castillo FJ, del Castillo I. DFNB1 Non-syndromic Hearing Impairment: Diversity of Mutations and Associated Phenotypes. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:428. [PMID: 29311818 PMCID: PMC5743749 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The inner ear is a very complex sensory organ whose development and function depend on finely balanced interactions among diverse cell types. The many different kinds of inner ear supporting cells play the essential roles of providing physical and physiological support to sensory hair cells and of maintaining cochlear homeostasis. Appropriately enough, the gene most commonly mutated among subjects with hereditary hearing impairment (HI), GJB2, encodes the connexin-26 (Cx26) gap-junction channel protein that underlies both intercellular communication among supporting cells and homeostasis of the cochlear fluids, endolymph and perilymph. GJB2 lies at the DFNB1 locus on 13q12. The specific kind of HI associated with this locus is caused by recessively-inherited mutations that inactivate the two alleles of the GJB2 gene, either in homozygous or compound heterozygous states. We describe the many diverse classes of genetic alterations that result in DFNB1 HI, such as large deletions that either destroy the GJB2 gene or remove a regulatory element essential for GJB2 expression, point mutations that interfere with promoter function or splicing, and small insertions or deletions and nucleotide substitutions that target the GJB2 coding sequence. We focus on how these alterations disrupt GJB2 and Cx26 functions and on their different effects on cochlear development and physiology. We finally discuss the diversity of clinical features of DFNB1 HI as regards severity, age of onset, inner ear malformations and vestibular dysfunction, highlighting the areas where future research should be concentrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco J. del Castillo
- Servicio de Genética, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ignacio del Castillo
- Servicio de Genética, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
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6
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Bliznetz EA, Lalayants MR, Markova TG, Balanovsky OP, Balanovska EV, Skhalyakho RA, Pocheshkhova EA, Nikitina NV, Voronin SV, Kudryashova EK, Glotov OS, Polyakov AV. Update of the GJB2/DFNB1 mutation spectrum in Russia: a founder Ingush mutation del(GJB2-D13S175) is the most frequent among other large deletions. J Hum Genet 2017; 62:789-795. [PMID: 28405014 PMCID: PMC5584515 DOI: 10.1038/jhg.2017.42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2016] [Revised: 03/05/2017] [Accepted: 03/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Although mutations in the GJB2 gene sequence make up the majority of variants causing autosomal-recessive non-syndromic hearing loss, few large deletions have been shown to contribute to DFNB1 deafness. Currently, genetic testing for DFNB1 hearing loss includes GJB2 sequencing and DFNB1 deletion analysis for two common large deletions, del(GJB6-D13S1830) and del(GJB6-D13S1854). Here, we report frequency in Russia, clinical significance and evolutionary origins of a 101 kb deletion, del(GJB2-D13S175), recently identified by us. In multiethnic cohort of 1104 unrelated hearing loss patients with biallelic mutations at the DFNB1 locus, the del(GJB2-D13S175) allele frequency of up to 0.5% (11/2208) was determined and this allele was shown to be predominantly associated with profound sensorineural hearing loss. Additionally, eight previously unpublished GJB2 mutations were described in this study. All patients carrying del(GJB2-D13S175) were of the Ingush ancestry. Among normal hearing individuals, del(GJB2-D13S175) was observed in Russian Republic of Ingushetia with a carrier rate of ~1% (2/241). Analysis of haplotypes associated with the deletion revealed a common founder in the Ingushes, with age of the deletion being ~3000 years old. Since del(GJB2-D13S175) was missed by standard methods of GJB2 analysis, del(GJB2-D13S175) detection has been added to our routine testing strategy for DFNB1 hearing loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena A Bliznetz
- The Federal Agency for Scientific Organizations, Federal State Budgetary Institution, Research Centre for Medical Genetics, Moscow, Russia
| | - Maria R Lalayants
- Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Federal State-Funded Institution of Science, National Research Center for Audiology and Hearing Rehabilitation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Tatiana G Markova
- Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Federal State-Funded Institution of Science, National Research Center for Audiology and Hearing Rehabilitation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Oleg P Balanovsky
- The Federal Agency for Scientific Organizations, Federal State Budgetary Institution, Research Centre for Medical Genetics, Moscow, Russia
- The Russian Academy of Sciences, Federal State-Funded Institution of Science, Vavilov Institute of General Genetics, Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena V Balanovska
- The Federal Agency for Scientific Organizations, Federal State Budgetary Institution, Research Centre for Medical Genetics, Moscow, Russia
| | - Roza A Skhalyakho
- The Federal Agency for Scientific Organizations, Federal State Budgetary Institution, Research Centre for Medical Genetics, Moscow, Russia
- The Russian Academy of Sciences, Federal State-Funded Institution of Science, Vavilov Institute of General Genetics, Moscow, Russia
| | - Elvira A Pocheshkhova
- The Ministry of Health, Federal State-Funded Educational Institution of Higher Education, Kuban State Medical University, Krasnodar, Russia
| | - Natalya V Nikitina
- The Ministry of Health, State Budgetary Healthcare Institution, Clinical-Diagnostic Center of Mother and Child Health Protection, Yekaterinburg, Russia
| | - Sergey V Voronin
- State Autonomous Healthcare Institution, Regional Clinical Center of Specialized Medical Care, Vladivostok, Russia
| | - Elena K Kudryashova
- The Ministry of Health, State Budgetary Healthcare Institution, Leningrad Regional Clinical Hospital, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Oleg S Glotov
- Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education, Saint Petersburg University, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Alexander V Polyakov
- The Federal Agency for Scientific Organizations, Federal State Budgetary Institution, Research Centre for Medical Genetics, Moscow, Russia
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Pshennikova VG, Barashkov NA, Solovyev AV, Romanov GP, Diakonov EE, Sazonov NN, Morozov IV, Bondar AA, Posukh OL, Dzhemileva LU, Khusnutdinova EK, Tomsky MI, Fedorova SA. Analysis of GJB6 (Сx30) and GJB3 (Сx31) genes in deaf patients with monoallelic mutations in GJB2 (Сx26) gene in the Sakha Republic (Yakutia). RUSS J GENET+ 2017. [DOI: 10.1134/s1022795417030103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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8
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Bliznetz EA, Kanivets IV, Polyakov AV. DNA copy number analysis of the DFNB1 hereditary hearing loss locus. RUSS J GENET+ 2017. [DOI: 10.1134/s1022795417050027] [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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9
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Kelly JJ, Simek J, Laird DW. Mechanisms linking connexin mutations to human diseases. Cell Tissue Res 2014; 360:701-21. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-014-2024-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Accepted: 09/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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10
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Jagger DJ, Forge A. Connexins and gap junctions in the inner ear--it's not just about K⁺ recycling. Cell Tissue Res 2014; 360:633-44. [PMID: 25381570 PMCID: PMC4452565 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-014-2029-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2014] [Accepted: 10/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Normal development, function and repair of the sensory epithelia in the inner ear are all dependent on gap junctional intercellular communication. Mutations in the connexin genes GJB2 and GJB6 (encoding CX26 and CX30) result in syndromic and non-syndromic deafness via various mechanisms. Clinical vestibular defects, however, are harder to connect with connexin dysfunction. Cx26 and Cx30 proteins are widely expressed in the epithelial and connective tissues of the cochlea, where they may form homomeric or heteromeric gap junction channels in a cell-specific and spatiotemporally complex fashion. Despite the study of mutant channels and animal models for both recessive and dominant autosomal deafness, it is still unclear why gap junctions are essential for auditory function, and why Cx26 and Cx30 do not compensate for each other in vivo. Cx26 appears to be essential for normal development of the auditory sensory epithelium, but may be dispensable during normal hearing. Cx30 appears to be essential for normal repair following sensory cell loss. The specific modes of intercellular signalling mediated by inner ear gap junction channels remain undetermined, but they are hypothesised to play essential roles in the maintenance of ionic and metabolic homeostasis in the inner ear. Recent studies have highlighted involvement of gap junctions in the transfer of essential second messengers between the non-sensory cells, and have proposed roles for hemichannels in normal hearing. Here, we summarise the current knowledge about the molecular and functional properties of inner ear gap junctions, and about tissue pathologies associated with connexin mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Jagger
- UCL Ear Institute, University College London, 332 Gray's Inn Road, London, WC1X 8EE, UK,
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11
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Genetics of auditory mechano-electrical transduction. Pflugers Arch 2014; 467:49-72. [PMID: 24957570 PMCID: PMC4281357 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-014-1552-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2014] [Revised: 06/04/2014] [Accepted: 06/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The hair bundles of cochlear hair cells play a central role in the auditory mechano-electrical transduction (MET) process. The identification of MET components and of associated molecular complexes by biochemical approaches is impeded by the very small number of hair cells within the cochlea. In contrast, human and mouse genetics have proven to be particularly powerful. The study of inherited forms of deafness led to the discovery of several essential proteins of the MET machinery, which are currently used as entry points to decipher the associated molecular networks. Notably, MET relies not only on the MET machinery but also on several elements ensuring the proper sound-induced oscillation of the hair bundle or the ionic environment necessary to drive the MET current. Here, we review the most significant advances in the molecular bases of the MET process that emerged from the genetics of hearing.
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12
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Salvago P, Martines E, La Mattina E, Mucia M, Sammarco P, Sireci F, Martines F. Distribution and phenotype of GJB2 mutations in 102 Sicilian patients with congenital non syndromic sensorineural hearing loss. Int J Audiol 2014; 53:558-63. [PMID: 24793888 DOI: 10.3109/14992027.2014.905717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the frequency of GJB2 mutations and their correlation with phenotype in Sicilian non-syndromic sensorineural hearing loss (NSHL) patients. DESIGN Sequencing of the coding region, basal promoter, exon 1, and donor splice site of the GJB2 gene; screening for the presence of the two common GJB6 deletions. STUDY SAMPLE A cohort of 102 Sicilian NSHL patients. RESULTS Fifteen different mutations in GJB2 and seventeen different genotypes were detected. No GJB6 mutations were found. The hearing impairment was profound in the 64.72% of probands (mean PTA0.25-4 kHz of 88.82 ± 26.52 dB HL). A total of 81.37% of patients harboured at least one c.35delG allele; c.167delT and c.-23 + 1G> A were identified in 10.78% and the 9.8% of patients respectively; c.35delG homozygotes presented more severe hearing impairment (75.59% of profound hearing loss) and a higher mean PTA0.25-4 kHz (96.79 ± 21.11 dB HL) with respect to c.35delG/non-c.35delG and c.35delG/Wt patients (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS This work underlines the role of c.35delG, c.167delT and c.-23 + 1G> A as the most frequent causes of NSHL in Sicily. The c.35delG frequency found is similar to those reported in other populations of the Mediterranean area. The analysis of genetic and audiologic data confirmed a variability in the phenotype associated to a single genotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Salvago
- * Dipartimento di Biomedicina Sperimentale e Neuroscienze Cliniche, (BioNeC), Sezione di Otorinolaringoiatria, Università degli Studi di Palermo , Palermo , Italy
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13
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Bliznetz EA, Makienko ON, Okuneva EG, Markova TG, Polyakov AV. New recurrent large deletion, encompassing both GJB2 and GB6 genes, results in isolated sensorineural hearing impairment with autosomal recessive mode of inheritance. RUSS J GENET+ 2014. [DOI: 10.1134/s1022795414020045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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14
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Abstract
Gjb2 and Gjb6, two contiguous genes respectively encoding the gap junction protein connexin26 (Cx26) and connexin 30 (Cx30) display overlapping expression in the inner ear. Both have been linked to the most frequent monogenic hearing impairment, the recessive isolated deafness DFNB1. Although there is robust evidence for the direct involvement of Cx26 in cochlear functions, the contribution of Cx30 is unclear since deletion of Cx30 strongly downregulates Cx26 both in human and in mouse. Thus, it is imperative that any role of Cx30 in audition be clearly evaluated. Here, we developed a new Cx30 knock-out mouse model (Cx30(Δ/Δ)) in which half of Cx26 expression was preserved. Our results show that Cx30 and Cx26 coordinated expression is dependent on the spacing of their surrounding chromosomic region, and that Cx30(Δ/Δ) mutants display normal hearing. Thus, in deaf patients with GJB6 deletion as well as in the previous Cx30 knock-out mouse model, defective Cx26 expression is the likely cause of deafness, and in contrast to current opinion, Cx30 is dispensable for cochlear functions.
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15
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Bliznetz EA, Galkina VA, Matyushchenko GN, Kisina AG, Markova TG, Polyakov AV. Changes in the connexin 26 gene (GJB2) in Russian patients with hearing loss: Results of long-term molecular diagnostics of hereditary nonsyndromic hearing loss. RUSS J GENET+ 2012. [DOI: 10.1134/s1022795412010036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Matos TD, Simões-Teixeira H, Caria H, Cascão R, Rosa H, O'Neill A, Dias O, Andrea ME, Kelsell DP, Fialho G. Assessing Noncoding Sequence Variants of GJB2 for Hearing Loss Association. GENETICS RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2011; 2011:827469. [PMID: 22567369 PMCID: PMC3335567 DOI: 10.4061/2011/827469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2011] [Revised: 07/19/2011] [Accepted: 07/27/2011] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Involvement of GJB2 noncoding regions in hearing loss (HL) has not been extensively investigated. However, three noncoding mutations, c.-259C>T, c.-23G>T, and c.-23+1G>A, were reported. Also, c.-684_-675del, of uncertain pathogenicity, was found upstream of the basal promoter. We performed a detailed analysis of GJB2 noncoding regions in Portuguese HL patients (previously screened for GJB2 coding mutations and the common GJB6 deletions) and in control subjects, by sequencing the basal promoter and flanking upstream region, exon 1, and 3'UTR. All individuals were genotyped for c.-684_-675del and 14 SNPs. Novel variants (c.-731C>T, c.-26G>T, c.*45G>A, and c.*985A>T) were found in controls. A hearing individual homozygous for c.-684_-675del was for the first time identified, supporting the nonpathogenicity of this deletion. Our data indicate linkage disequilibrium (LD) between SNPs rs55704559 (c.*168A>G) and rs5030700 (c.*931C>T) and suggest the association of c.[*168G;*931T] allele with HL. The c.*168A>G change, predicted to alter mRNA folding, might be involved in HL.
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Affiliation(s)
- T D Matos
- Centre for Biodiversity, Functional, and Integrative Genomics (BioFIG), Faculty of Science, University of Lisbon, Campus FCUL, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
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17
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Abstract
Cx (connexin) proteins are components of gap junctions which are aqueous pores that allow intercellular exchange of ions and small molecules. Mutations in Cx genes are linked to a range of human disorders. In the present review we discuss mutations in β-Cx genes encoding Cx26, Cx30, Cx30.3 and Cx31 which lead to skin disease and deafness. Functional studies with Cx proteins have given insights into disease-associated mechanisms and non-gap junctional roles for Cx proteins.
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18
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Rodriguez-Paris J, Tamayo ML, Gelvez N, Schrijver I. Allele-specific impairment of GJB2 expression by GJB6 deletion del(GJB6-D13S1854). PLoS One 2011; 6:e21665. [PMID: 21738759 PMCID: PMC3126855 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0021665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2011] [Accepted: 06/07/2011] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the GJB2 gene, which encodes connexin 26, are a frequent cause of congenital non-syndromic sensorineural hearing loss. Two large deletions, del(GJB6-D13S1830) and del(GJB6-D13S1854), which truncate GJB6 (connexin 30), cause hearing loss in individuals homozygous, or compound heterozygous for these deletions or one such deletion and a mutation in GJB2. Recently, we have demonstrated that the del(GJB6-D13S1830) deletion contributes to hearing loss due to an allele-specific lack of GJB2 mRNA expression and not as a result of digenic inheritance, as was postulated earlier. In the current study we investigated the smaller del(GJB6-D13S1854) deletion, which disrupts the expression of GJB2 at the transcriptional level in a manner similar to the more common del(GJB6-D13S1830) deletion. Interestingly, in the presence of this deletion, GJB2 expression remains minimally but reproducibly present. The relative allele-specific expression of GJB2 was assessed by reverse-transcriptase PCR and restriction digestions in three probands who were compound heterozygous for a GJB2 mutation and del(GJB6-D13S1854). Each individual carried a different sequence variant in GJB2. All three individuals expressed the mutated GJB2 allele in trans with del(GJB6-D13S1854), but expression of the GJB2 allele in cis with the deletion was almost absent. Our study clearly corroborates the hypothesis that the del(GJB6-D13S1854), similar to the larger and more common del(GJB6-D13S1830), removes (a) putative cis-regulatory element(s) upstream of GJB6 and narrows down the region of location.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Rodriguez-Paris
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Marta L. Tamayo
- Instituto de Genética Humana, Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
- Fundación Oftalmológica Nacional, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Nancy Gelvez
- Instituto de Genética Humana, Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Iris Schrijver
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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19
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Wilch E, Azaiez H, Fisher RA, Elfenbein J, Murgia A, Birkenhäger R, Bolz H, Da Silva-Costa SM, Del Castillo I, Haaf T, Hoefsloot L, Kremer H, Kubisch C, Le Marechal C, Pandya A, Sartorato EL, Schneider E, Van Camp G, Wuyts W, Smith RJH, Friderici KH. A novel DFNB1 deletion allele supports the existence of a distant cis-regulatory region that controls GJB2 and GJB6 expression. Clin Genet 2010; 78:267-74. [PMID: 20236118 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-0004.2010.01387.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Eleven affected members of a large German-American family segregating recessively inherited, congenital, non-syndromic sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) were found to be homozygous for the common 35delG mutation of GJB2, the gene encoding the gap junction protein Connexin 26. Surprisingly, four additional family members with bilateral profound SNHL carried only a single 35delG mutation. Previously, we demonstrated reduced expression of both GJB2 and GJB6 mRNA from the allele carried in trans with that bearing the 35delG mutation in these four persons. Using array comparative genome hybridization (array CGH), we have now identified on this allele a deletion of 131.4 kb whose proximal breakpoint lies more than 100 kb upstream of the transcriptional start sites of GJB2 and GJB6. This deletion, del(chr13:19,837,344-19,968,698), segregates as a completely penetrant DFNB1 allele in this family. It is not present in 528 persons with SNHL and monoallelic mutation of GJB2 or GJB6, and we have not identified any other candidate pathogenic copy number variation by arrayCGH in a subset of 10 such persons. Characterization of distant GJB2/GJB6 cis-regulatory regions evidenced by this allele may be required to find the 'missing' DFNB1 mutations that are believed to exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Wilch
- Genetics Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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20
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Rodriguez-Paris J, Schrijver I. The digenic hypothesis unraveled: the GJB6 del(GJB6-D13S1830) mutation causes allele-specific loss of GJB2 expression in cis. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2009; 389:354-9. [PMID: 19723508 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2009.08.152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2009] [Accepted: 08/27/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Connexin 26 and connexin 30 are the major connexins expressed in the cochlea, where they are co-localized and form heteromeric gap junctions. Mutations in the GJB2 gene, which encodes connexin 26, are the most common cause of prelingual non-syndromic sensorineural hearing loss. The large del(GJB6-D13S1830) mutation which involves GJB6 (connexin 30), causes hearing loss in homozygous individuals, or when compound heterozygous with a GJB2 mutation. Until now, it remained unresolved whether this phenomenon results from digenic inheritance or because of lack of GJB2 mRNA expression. After RNA extraction from buccal epithelium, a tissue known to express connexin 26 as well as connexin 30, allele-specific expression of GJB2 was investigated by reverse-transcriptase PCR and restriction digestions in three unrelated individuals compound heterozygous for a GJB2 mutation and del(GJB6-D13S1830). Each proband carried a different sequence change in GJB2. The mutated GJB2 allele in trans with del(GJB6-D13S1830) was expressed in all three individuals whereas the GJB2 allele located in cis with the deletion was not expressed at all. Thus, mutations in these two genes do not cause hearing loss through a digenic mechanism of inheritance alone, as was postulated previously, but instead GJB2 expression is abolished through an effect in cis with the deletion. Our study provides unequivocal support for the hypothesis that del(GJB6-D13S1830) eliminates a putative cis-regulatory element located within the deleted region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Rodriguez-Paris
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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21
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Abstract
The identification of the molecular basis of deafness in the last decade has made a remarkable impact on genetic counseling and diagnostics for the hearing impaired population. Since the discovery of the most prevalent form of deafness associated with mutations in the GJB2 (connexin 26) gene, many other genes have been found worldwide, with a subset of these, including unique mutations, in Israel. Here, we review the current status of deafness genes in Israel and report one known mutation in a syndromic form of deafness, Usher syndrome, described in the Jewish Israeli population for the first time. In the future, the identification of specific mutations may be relevant for specific types of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zippora Brownstein
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 69978 Israel.
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22
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Prevalence of GJB2 (Connexin-26) and GJB6 (Connexin-30) Mutations in a Cohort of 300 Brazilian Hearing-Impaired Individuals: Implications for Diagnosis and Genetic Counseling. Ear Hear 2009; 30:1-7. [PMID: 19125024 DOI: 10.1097/aud.0b013e31819144ad] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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23
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Gap junctions and connexins in the inner ear: their roles in homeostasis and deafness. Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2009; 16:452-7. [PMID: 18797288 DOI: 10.1097/moo.0b013e32830e20b0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Mutations in GJB2 and GJB6, the genes encoding the gap-junction proteins connexin 26 and connexin 30, are the most common cause of autosomal recessive nonsyndromic deafness in many populations across the world. In this review, we discuss current ideas about the roles of gap junctions in the inner ear and the implications of connexin mutations on auditory function. RECENT FINDINGS In recent years, a complex picture of the roles of gap junctions in cochlear physiology emerged. Rather than being mere conduits for the circulation of potassium ions in the inner ear, gap junctions have been implicated in intercellular signaling among nonsensory cells and may be involved in the maintenance of the endothelial barrier in the stria vascularis. Studies of mutant channels and mouse models for connexin-related deafness have provided valuable insights into some of the mechanisms by which connexin dysfunction causes cochlear degeneration. They have also identified potential therapeutic interventions for specific connexin mutations, such as the restoration of normal connexin 26 protein levels in GJB6-associated deafness. SUMMARY Despite recent advances, a better understanding of the complexity of gap-junctional communication in the inner ear and the structure-function relationships of connexin proteins is required for the development of mechanism-based treatments of connexin-associated hearing loss.
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Hilgert N, Smith RJH, Van Camp G. Forty-six genes causing nonsyndromic hearing impairment: which ones should be analyzed in DNA diagnostics? Mutat Res 2008; 681:189-196. [PMID: 18804553 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrrev.2008.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 332] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2008] [Revised: 08/04/2008] [Accepted: 08/22/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Hearing impairment is the most common sensory disorder, present in 1 of every 500 newborns. With 46 genes implicated in nonsyndromic hearing loss, it is also an extremely heterogeneous trait. Here, we categorize for the first time all mutations reported in nonsyndromic deafness genes, both worldwide and more specifically in Caucasians. The most frequent genes implicated in autosomal recessive nonsyndromic hearing loss are GJB2, which is responsible for more than half of cases, followed by SLC26A4, MYO15A, OTOF, CDH23 and TMC1. None of the genes associated with autosomal dominant nonsyndromic hearing loss accounts for a preponderance of cases, although mutations are somewhat more frequently reported in WFS1, KCNQ4, COCH and GJB2. Only a minority of these genes is currently included in genetic diagnostics, the selection criteria typically reflecting: (1) high frequency as a cause of deafness (i.e. GJB2); (2) association with another recognisable feature (i.e. SLC26A4 and enlarged vestibular aqueduct); or (3) a recognisable audioprofile (i.e. WFS1). New and powerful DNA sequencing technologies have been developed over the past few years, but have not yet found their way into DNA diagnostics. Implementing these technologies is likely to happen within the next 5 years, and will cause a breakthrough in terms of power and cost efficiency. It will become possible to analyze most - if not all - deafness genes, as opposed to one or a few genes currently. This ability will greatly improve DNA diagnostics, provide epidemiological data on gene-based mutation frequencies, and reveal novel genotype-phenotype correlations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nele Hilgert
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp (UA), Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Richard J H Smith
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Iowa, Iowa city, IA 52242, USA
| | - Guy Van Camp
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp (UA), Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Antwerp, Belgium.
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25
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Apps SA, Rankin WA, Kurmis AP. Connexin 26 mutations in autosomal recessive deafness disorders: a review. Int J Audiol 2007; 46:75-81. [PMID: 17365058 DOI: 10.1080/14992020600582190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This review explores the association between GJB2 gene mutations, encoding connexin 26 (Cx26), and nonsyndromic hearing loss. Connexins are proteins that form intracellular membrane channels and regulate ion movement between contiguous fluid spaces. A family of autosomal gene mutations has been identified that lead to abnormal connexin expression within the inner ear that are associated with hearing loss. The exact mechanism by which this link is elicited remains unclear. We aim to highlight the clinically underestimated prevalence of GJB2 gene mutations, to explore the influential role of ethnic diversity in mutation frequency, and to provide a framework for hearing specialists in considering the differential diagnosis of nonsyndromic hearing loss. By linking an observed phenotype associated with abnormal Cx26 expression to the current understanding of the biological and genetic basis underlying it will allow a more accurate clinical description of associated hearing loss, and therefore enable more effective patient management and genetic counselling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey A Apps
- School of Speech Pathology and Audiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
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26
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Wilch E, Zhu M, Burkhart KB, Regier M, Elfenbein JL, Fisher RA, Friderici KH. Expression of GJB2 and GJB6 is reduced in a novel DFNB1 allele. Am J Hum Genet 2006; 79:174-9. [PMID: 16773579 PMCID: PMC1474119 DOI: 10.1086/505333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2006] [Accepted: 04/20/2006] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
In a large kindred of German descent, we found a novel allele that segregates with deafness when present in trans with the 35delG allele of GJB2. Qualitative polymerase chain reaction-based allele-specific expression assays showed that expression of both GJB2 and GJB6 from the novel allele is dramatically reduced. This is the first evidence of a deafness-associated regulatory mutation of GJB2 and of potential coregulation of GJB2 and GJB6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Wilch
- Genetics Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, 48824, USA
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