Early transposable element insertion in intron 9 of the Hsf4 gene results in autosomal recessive cataracts in lop11 and ldis1 mice

Lens opacity 11 (lop11) is an autosomal recessive mouse cataract mutation that arose spontaneously in the RIIIS/J strain. At 3 weeks of age mice exhibit total cataracts with vacuoles. The lop11 locus was mapped to mouse chromosome 8. Analysis of the mouse genome for the lop11 critical region identified Hsf4 as a candidate gene. Molecular evaluation of Hsf4 revealed an early transposable element (ETn) in intron 9 inserted 61 bp upstream of the intron/exon junction. The same mutation was also identified in a previously mapped cataract mutant, ldis1. The ETn insertion altered splicing and expression of the Hsf4 gene, resulting in the truncated Hsf4 protein. In humans, mutations in HSF4 have been associated with both autosomal dominant and recessive cataracts. The lop11 mouse is an excellent resource for evaluating the role of Hsf4 in transparency of the lens.     

A progressive autosomal recessive cataract locus maps to chromosome 9q13-q22

Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in most countries. Although most hereditary cases appear to follow an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance, autosomal recessive inheritance has been clearly documented and is probably underrecognized. We studied a large family-from a relatively isolated geographic region-whose members were affected by autosomal recessive adult-onset pulverulent cataracts. We mapped the disease locus to a 14-cM interval at a novel disease locus, 9q13-q22 (between markers D9S1123 and D9S257), with a LOD score of 4.7. The study of this progressive and age-related cataract phenotype may provide insight into the cause of the more common sporadic form of age-related cataracts.     

A novel form of "central pouchlike" cataract, with sutural opacities, maps to chromosome 15q21-22

Congenital cataract is a clinically and genetically highly heterogeneous eye disorder, with autosomal dominant inheritance being most common. We investigated a large seven-generation family with 74 individuals affected by autosomal dominant congenital cataract (ADCC). The phenotype in this family can be described as "central pouchlike" cataract with sutural opacities, and it differs from the other mapped cataracts. We performed linkage analysis with microsatellite markers in this family and excluded the known candidate genes. A genomewide search revealed linkage to markers on chromosome 15, with a maximum two-point LOD score of 5.98 at straight theta=0 with marker D15S117. Multipoint analysis also gave a maximum LOD score of 5.98 at D15S117. Multipoint and haplotype analysis narrowed the cataract locus to a 10-cM region between markers D15S209 and D15S1036, closely linked to marker D15S117 in q21-q22 region of chromosome 15. This is the first report of a gene for a clinically new type of ADCC at 15q21-22 locus.     

A juvenile-onset, progressive cataract locus on chromosome 3q21-q22 is associated with a missense mutation in the beaded filament structural protein-2

Juvenile-onset cataracts are distinguished from congenital cataracts by the initial clarity of the lens at birth and the gradual development of lens opacity in the second and third decades of life. Genomewide linkage analysis in a multigenerational pedigree, segregating for autosomal dominant juvenile-onset cataracts, identified a locus in chromosome region 3q21.2-q22.3. Because of the proximity of the gene coding for lens beaded filament structural protein-2 (BFSP2) to this locus, we screened for mutations in the coding sequence of BFSP2. We observed a unique C-->T transition, one that was not observed in 200 normal chromosomes. We predicted that this led to a nonconservative R287W substitution in exon 4 that cosegregated with cataracts. This mutation alters an evolutionarily conserved arginine residue in the central rod domain of the intermediate filament. On consideration of the proposed function of BFSP2 in the lens cytoskeleton, it is likely that this alteration is the cause of cataracts in the members of the family we studied. This is the first example of a mutation in a noncrystallin structural gene that leads to a juvenile-onset, progressive cataract.     

Further evidence of autosomal dominant congenital zonular pulverulent cataracts linked to 13q11 (CZP3) and a novel mutation in connexin 46 (GJA3)

We describe a four-generation family with fully penetrant, autosomal dominant, congenital cataracts (ADCC), presenting with morphologically homogeneous "zonular pulverulent" cataracts (CZP) and typical early-onset phenotype. Linkage analysis was performed with a panel of polymorphic markers mapped to all genomic regions of ADCC susceptibility. Contiguous significant two-point lod scores were generated at autosomal region 13q11-q13 and further linkage and haplotype studies confined the disease locus to 13q11, supporting a previous linkage of CZP (specifically CZP3) to 13q11. Mutations in a gap-junction protein, connexin 46 (alphaa3 subunit or GJA3), have recently been reported as being linked to the 13q11 region. Mutational analysis of connexin 46 in our family revealed a C-->T at position 560 (P187L) of the cDNA sequence creating a novel MnlI restriction site that segregated with affected members of the pedigree. This family represents a second report of CZP3 linkage to 13q and is associated with a novel mutation in the connexin 46 (GJA3) gene.     

Linkage and LOH studies in 19 cylindromatosis families show no evidence of genetic heterogeneity and refine the CYLD locus on chromosome 16q12–q13

Familial cylindromatosis is an autosomal dominant predisposition to multiple neoplasms of the skin appendages. The susceptibility gene has previously been mapped to chromosome 16q12-q13 and has features of a recessive oncogene/tumour suppressor gene. We have now evaluated 19 families with this disease by a combination of genetic linkage analysis and loss of heterozygosity in cylindromas from affected individuals. All 15 informative families show linkage to this locus, providing no evidence for genetic heterogeneity. Recombinant mapping has placed the gene in an interval of approximately 1 Mb. There is no evidence, between families, of haplotype sharing that might be indicative of common founder mutations.     

An autosomal recessive nonsyndromic-hearing-loss locus identified by DNA pooling using two inbred Bedouin kindreds.

Autosomal recessive nonsyndromic hearing loss (ARNSHL) is the most common form of severe inherited childhood deafness. We present the linkage analysis of two inbred Bedouin kindreds from Israel that are affected with ARNSHL. A rapid genomewide screen for markers linked to the disease was performed by using pooled DNA samples. This screen revealed evidence for linkage with markers D9S922 and D9S301 on chromosome 9q. Genotyping of individuals from both kindreds confirmed linkage to chromosome 9q and a maximum combined LOD score of 26.2 (recombination fraction [theta] .025) with marker D9S927. The disease locus was mapped to a 1.6-cM region of chromosome 9ql3-q2l, between markers D9S15 and D9S927. The disease segregates with a common haplotype in the two kindreds, at markers D9S927, D9S175, and D9S284 in the linked interval, supporting the hypothesis that both kindreds inherited the deafness gene from a common ancestor. Although this nonsyndromic-hearing-loss (NSHL) locus maps to the same cytogenetic interval as DFNB7, it does not overlap the currently defined DFNB7 interval and may represent (1) a novel form of NSHL in close proximity to DFNB7 or (2) a relocalization of the DFNB7 interval to a region telomeric to its reported location. This study further demonstrates that DNA pooling is an effective means of quickly identifying regions of linkage in inbred families with heterogeneous autosomal recessive disorders.     

Genomewide scan for affective disorder susceptibility Loci in families of a northern Swedish isolated population

We analyzed nine multigenerational families with ascertained affective spectrum disorders in northern Sweden's geographically isolated population of Vasterbotten. This northern Swedish population, which originated from a limited number of early settlers approximately 8,000 years ago, is genetically more homogeneous than outbred populations. In a genomewide linkage analysis, we identified three chromosomal loci with multipoint LOD scores (MPLOD) >/=2 at 9q31.1-q34.1 (MPLOD 3.24), 6q22.2-q24.2 (MPLOD 2.48), and 2q33-q36 (MPLOD 2.26) under a recessive affected-only model. Follow-up genotyping with application of a 2-cM density simple-tandem-repeat (STR) map confirmed linkage at 9q31.1-q34.1 (MPLOD 3.22), 6q23-q24 (MPLOD 3.25), and 2q33-q36 (MPLOD 2.2). In an initial analysis aimed at identification of the underlying susceptibility genes, we focused our attention on the 9q locus. We fine mapped this region at a 200-kb STR density, with the result of an MPLOD of 3.70. Genealogical studies showed that three families linked to chromosome 9q descended from common founder couples approximately 10 generations ago. In this approximately 10-generation pedigree, a common ancestral haplotype was inherited by the patients, which reduced the 9q candidate region to 1.6 Mb. Further, the shared haplotype was observed in 4.2% of patients with bipolar disorder with alternating episodes of depression and mania, but it was not observed in control individuals in a patient-control sample from the Vasterbotten isolate. These results suggest a susceptibility locus on 9q31-q33 for affective disorder in this common ancestral region.     

Autosomal recessive juvenile parkinsonism maps to 6q25.2-q27 in four ethnic groups: detailed genetic mapping of the linked region.

Parkinson disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative condition associated with degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the zona compacta of the substantia nigra. There is increasing evidence that genetic factors play a role in the etiology of PD, although genetic heterogeneity is likely. An autosomal dominant syndrome with many similarities to sporadic PD has been mapped to 4q21-22 in a large Italian pedigree and has been found to be due to mutation of the alpha-synuclein gene. However, this gene appears to account for only a minority of PD, and a susceptibility locus for autosomal dominant parkinsonism has recently been mapped, on 2p13. Autosomal recessive juvenile parkinsonism (JP), which shows marked clinical similarity to PD, maps to 6q25.2-q27. We found linkage to this region in a group of 15 families from four distinct ethnic backgrounds. A full genomic screen excluded other candidate regions. We have constructed a detailed genetic map of the linked region and have mapped the position of the manganese superoxide dismutase gene (SOD2). Recombination events restricted the JP locus to a 6.9-cM region and excluded SOD2. The apparent homozygosity for null alleles at D6S955 in one family suggested a deletion and finer localization of the JP locus.     

Mutations of MYO6 are associated with recessive deafness,DFNB37

Cosegregation of profound, congenital deafness with markers on chromosome 6q13 in three Pakistani families defines a new recessive deafness locus, DFNB37. Haplotype analyses reveal a 6-cM linkage region, flanked by markers D6S1282 and D6S1031, that includes the gene encoding unconventional myosin VI. In families with recessively inherited deafness, DFNB37, our sequence analyses of MYO6 reveal a frameshift mutation (36-37insT), a nonsense mutation (R1166X), and a missense mutation (E216V). These mutations, along with a previously published missense allele linked to autosomal dominant progressive hearing loss (DFNA22), provide an allelic spectrum that probes the relationship between myosin VI dysfunction and the resulting phenotype.     

A new locus for autosomal dominant stargardt-like disease maps to chromosome 4

Stargardt disease (STGD) is the most common hereditary macular dystrophy and is characterized by decreased central vision, atrophy of the macula and underlying retinal-pigment epithelium, and frequent presence of prominent flecks in the posterior pole of the retina. STGD is most commonly inherited as an autosomal recessive trait, but many families have been described in which features of the disease are transmitted in an autosomal dominant manner. A recessive locus has been identified on chromosome 1p (STGD1), and dominant loci have been mapped to both chromosome 13q (STGD2) and chromosome 6q (STGD3). In this study, we describe a kindred with an autosomal dominant Stargardt-like phenotype. A genomewide search demonstrated linkage to a locus on chromosome 4p, with a maximum LOD score of 5.12 at a recombination fraction of.00, for marker D4S403. Analysis of extended haplotypes localized the disease gene to an approximately 12-cM interval between loci D4S1582 and D4S2397. Therefore, this kindred establishes a new dominant Stargardt-like locus, STGD4.     

Non-syndromic hearing loss associated with enlarged vestibular aqueduct is caused by PDS mutations

Enlarged vestibular aqueduct (EVA), known as the most common form of inner ear abnormality, has recently been of particular genetic interest because this anomaly is inherited in a recessive manner. The locus for non-syndromic sensorineural hearing loss with EVA has been mapped to the same chromosomal region, 7q31, as the Pendred syndrome locus. In the present study, seven mutations in the PDS gene (PDS), the gene responsible for Pendred syndrome, have been found in families of non-syndromic sensorineural hearing loss with EVA. One family is homozygous, three families are compound heterozygotes, and two families are heterozygous but with no other mutation detected. The present results provide evidence that mutations in PDS cause both syndromic and non-syndromic hearing loss. Received: 21 October 1998 / Accepted: 5 December 1998     

Mapping of the human CP49 gene and identification of an intragenic polymorphic marker to allow genetic linkage analysis in autosomal dominant congenital cataract

The CP49 protein is an intermediate filament protein expressed specifically in the lens fibre cells of the lens, where it is an important cytoplasmic structural component. Dominant-negative mutations in other intermediate filament proteins, such as keratins, cause disorders characterised by dense cytoplasmic aggregates in specific cell types. The CP49 gene is therefore a good candidate for dominantly inherited forms of cataract. To allow genetic linkage analysis of families with autosomal dominant cataract with respect to CP49, a highly polymorphic intragenic microsatellite marker for this gene has been developed. In addition, both low and high resolution radiation hybrid mapping of the CP49 gene has been completed, placing it very close to microsatellite marker D3S1290 on human chromosome 3q. Furthermore, using the intragenic CP49 microsatellite, linkage was excluded in four families with genetically uncharacterized forms of autosomal dominant congenital cataract.     

DFNB89, a novel autosomal recessive nonsyndromic hearing impairment locus on chromosome 16q21-q23.2

DFNB89 is a novel autosomal recessive nonsyndromic hearing impairment (ARNSHI) locus that was mapped to 16q21-q23.2. Linkage to the region was established by carrying out genome-wide linkage scans in two unrelated, consanguineous Pakistani families segregating ARNSHI. The maximum multipoint LOD score is 9.7 for both families and for each family, a significant maximum LOD score of 6.0 and 3.7 were obtained. The 3-unit support interval and the region of homozygosity for the two families extend from rs717293 (chr16: 62.1?Mb) to rs728929 (chr16: 78.2?Mb) and contain 16.1?Mb of sequence. A total of 146 genes are within the DFNB89 interval. Eight candidate genes, CALB2, CDH1, CDH3, CDH11, HAS3, NOB1, PLEKHG4 and SMPD3, were sequenced, but no potentially causal variants were discovered. DFNB89 is the second ARNSHI locus mapped to chromosome 16.     

Hereditary spastic paraplegia: LOD-score considerations for confirmation of linkage in a heterogeneous trait.

Hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) is a degenerative disorder of the motor system, defined by progressive weakness and spasticity of the lower limbs. HSP may be inherited as an autosomal dominant (AD), autosomal recessive, or an X-linked trait. AD HSP is genetically heterogeneous, and three loci have been identified so far: SPG3 maps to chromosome 14q, SPG4 to 2p, and SPG4a to 15q. We have undertaken linkage analysis with 21 uncomplicated AD families to the three AD HSP loci. We report significant linkage for three of our families to the SPG4 locus and exclude several families by multipoint linkage. We used linkage information from several different research teams to evaluate the statistical probability of linkage to the SPG4 locus for uncomplicated AD HSP families and established the critical LOD-score value necessary for confirmation of linkage to the SPG4 locus from Bayesian statistics. In addition, we calculated the empirical P-values for the LOD scores obtained with all families with computer simulation methods. Power to detect significant linkage, as well as type I error probabilities, were evaluated. This combined analytical approach permitted conclusive linkage analyses on small to medium-size families, under the restrictions of genetic heterogeneity.     

A novel locus for autosomal dominant nonsyndromic hearing loss (DFNA44) maps to chromosome 3q28–29

Hereditary non-syndromic sensorineural hearing loss (NSSHL) is a genetically highly heterogeneous group of disorders. Autosomal dominant forms account for up to 20% of cases. To date, 39 loci have been identified by linkage analysis of affected families that segregate NSSHL forms in the autosomal dominant mode (DFNA). Investigation of a large Spanish pedigree with autosomal dominant inheritance of bilateral and progressive NSSHL of postlingual onset excluded linkage to known DFNA loci and, in a subsequent genome-wide scan, the disorder locus was mapped to 3q28-29. A maximum two-point LOD score of 4.36 at theta=0 was obtained for marker D3S1601. Haplotype analysis placed the novel locus, DFNA44, within a 3-cM genetic interval defined by markers D3S1314 and D3S2418. Heteroduplex analysis and DNA sequencing of coding regions and exon/intron boundaries of two genes (CLDN16 and FGF12) in this interval did not reveal disease-causing mutations.     

A locus for brachydactyly type A-1 maps to chromosome 2q35-q36

Brachydactyly type A-1 (BDA1) was, in 1903, the first recorded example of a human anomaly with Mendelian autosomal dominant inheritance. Two large families, the affected members of which were radiographed, were recruited in the study we describe here. Two-point linkage analysis for pedigree 1 (maximum LOD score [Zmax] 6.59 at recombination fraction [theta] 0.00) and for pedigree 2 (Zmax=5.53 at straight theta=0.00) mapped the locus for BDA1 in the two families to chromosome 2q. Haplotype analysis of pedigree 1 confined the locus for family 1 within an interval of <8.1 cM flanked by markers D2S2248 and D2S360, which was mapped to chromosome 2q35-q36 on the cytogenetic map. Haplotype analysis of pedigree 2 confined the locus for family 2 within an interval of <28. 8 cM flanked by markers GATA30E06 and D2S427, which was localized to chromosome 2q35-q37. The two families had no identical haplotype within the defined region, which suggests that the two families were not related.     

A novel dysmorphic syndrome with open calvarial sutures and sutural cataracts maps to chromosome 14q13-q21

We describe a new dysmorphic syndrome in an inbred Saudi Arabian family with 21 members. Five males and one female have similar craniofacial features including wide open calvarial sutures with large and late-closing anterior fontanels, frontal bossing, hyperpigmentation with capillary hemangioma of the forehead, significant hypertelorism, and a broad and prominent nose. In addition, these individuals have Y-shaped sutural cataracts diagnosed by 1-2 years of age. No chromosomal or biochemical abnormalities were identified. A genome-wide scan was performed, and two-point LOD score analysis, assuming autosomal recessive inheritance, detected linkage to chromosome 14q13-q21. The highest LOD scores were obtained for marker GATA136A04 (LOD=4.58 at theta=0.00) and for the adjacent telomeric marker D14S1048 (LOD=4.32 at theta=0.00). Multipoint linkage analysis resulted in a maximum LOD score of 5.44 between markers D14S1048 and GATA136A04. Model independent analysis by SIBPAL confirmed linkage to the same chromosomal region. Haplotype analysis indicated that all affected individuals were homozygous for the interval on chromosome 14q13-q21 with two recombinants for D14S1014 (centromeric) and one recombinant for D14S301 (telomeric). These recombinations limit the disease locus to a region of approximately 7.26 Mb. Candidate genes localized to this region were identified, and analysis of PAX9 did not identify mutations in these patients. The unique clinical phenotype and the mapping data suggest that this family represents a novel autosomal recessive syndrome.