Clinical and genetic characteristics of TRPV4-associated skeletal dysplasias in Russian patients

Introduction. TRPV4 -associated skeletal dysplasias are a genetically heterogeneous group of autosomal dominant disorders caused by mutations in the TRPV4 gene. TRPV4 contains 16 exons and encodes a Ca2+-permeable transmembrane channel protein. To date, seven nosological forms within this group of skeletal dysplasias have been described. The overall prevalence of these disorders does not exceed 1:1,000,000. The most frequent forms among this group are spondylometaphyseal dysplasia, Kozlowski type (OMIM:184252) and metatropic dysplasia (OMIM:156530). Objective: to describe the clinical and genetic characteristics of Russian patients with skeletal dysplasia caused by previously reported and newly identified mutations in the TRPV4 gene. Methods. A comprehensive examination of 15 children from unrelated families aged 10 days-15 years with clinical and radiological signs of TRPV4-associated skeletal dysplasia was carried out. To specify diagnosis we used genealogical analysis, clinical examination, neurological examination according to a standard method with an assessment of the psycho-emotional sphere, radiography and sequencing a targeted gene panel including 166 genes responsible for the development of hereditary skeletal disorders. Results. Spondylometaphyseal dysplasia, Kozlowski type was diagnosed in 7 and metatropic dysplasia in 8 patients. 7 pathogenic variants in the TRPV4 gene were identified, of which two were novel. As in previously reported cases, two major mutations in the TRPV4 gene were found in Russian patients: p.Arg594His in patients with spondylometaphyseal dysplasia, Kozlowski type and p.Pro799Leu in patients with metatropic dysplasia. Conclusion. Our findings combined with previously reported results suggest the rationale for creating a genetic screening test to detect major mutations in patients with spondylometaphyseal dysplasia, Kozlowski type and metatropic dysplasia, which have similar clinical and radiological manifestations. Foremost use of this test will improve the molecular diagnostics of these diseases.

skeletal dysplasia, TRPV4 gene, exome sequencing, major mutations, spondylometaphyseal dysplasia, metatropic dysplasia, Kozlowski type

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