Genetics Researchers Find New Neurodevelopmental Syndrome

EMBARGOED FOR RELEASE

Until Thursday, Oct. 3, 2019, 11 a.m. Eastern U.S. time

Contact: John Ascenzi

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

 (267) 426-6055

[email protected]

Genetics researchers Find New Neurodevelopmental Syndrome

--CHOP scientists: NKAP gene is a key regulator of brain, musculoskeletal development-- 

Newswise — Philadelphia, Oct. 3, 2019–-Researchers have identified a gene mutation that causes developmental delay, intellectual disability, behavioral abnormalities and musculoskeletal problems in children. The newly diagnosed condition, called NKAP-related syndrome, arises from mutations in the NKAP gene, which plays a key role in human development. 

“This gene mutation disrupts transcription, the process in which DNA information is converted into RNA,” said study leader Kosuke Izumi, MD, PhD, a clinical geneticist and genetics researcher at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. “As my lab continues to explore the function of NKAP in our bodies, we aim to discover clues for future treatments.” 

Izumi and co-authors from eight nations published their report of NKAP-related syndrome today in the American Journal of Human Genetics. 

The scientists performed exome sequencing on 10 individuals, all children and young adults, with developmental delay, intellectual disability, behavioral problems such as ADHD and aggressive behavior, and tall stature, scoliosis and joint conditions. The subjects’ tall stature and musculoskeletal problems are “Marfanoid”: similar to traits found in the long-known genetic disorder Marfan syndrome. 

The exome sequencing pinpointed mutations in the NKAP gene on the X chromosome. Consistent with an X-linked recessive condition, NKAP mutations caused symptoms only in males. Further analysis showed that transcription disruption patterns were similar in the patients—a higher proportion of genes were downregulated than upregulated, that is, the mutation “dialed down” the gene’s effects on RNA and proteins. Experiments with zebrafish models revealed similar effects from an analogous mutated gene. 

“The function of NKAP in our bodies has been poorly understood,” said Izumi. “We discovered novel functions in brain and musculoskeletal development. Furthermore, we have started a patient registry to collect clinical information on patients with this rare diagnosis. Identifying more patients may help to reveal the full spectrum of medical issues seen in NKAP-related syndrome.” 

In addition to providing a definitive diagnosis to a subset of patients with developmental delay and intellectual disability found to harbor this mutation, biological insights may eventually translate into clinical benefits. “As we further investigate biological mechanisms in this syndrome, our goal is to identify molecular pathways to target for future treatments for patients,” added Izumi.

Sarah K. Fiordaliso et al, “Missense Mutations in NKAP Cause a Disorder of Transcriptional Regulation Characterized by Marfanoid Habitus and Cognitive Impairment,” American Journal of Human Genetics, online Oct. 3, 2019.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajhg.2019.09.009

About Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia: Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia was founded in 1855 as the nation’s first pediatric hospital. Through its long-standing commitment to providing exceptional patient care, training new generations of pediatric healthcare professionals, and pioneering major research initiatives, Children’s Hospital has fostered many discoveries that have benefited children worldwide.  Its pediatric research program is among the largest in the country.  In addition, its unique family-centered care and public service programs have brought the 564-bed hospital recognition as a leading advocate for children and adolescents. For more information, visit http://www.chop.edu