[Localization and screening of autosomal dominant coralliform cataract associated gene].
OBJECTIVE
To identify the genetic defect for the autosomal dominant coralliform cataract affecting a four-generation Chinese family.


METHODS
Genomic DNA from the family members was typed for whole genomic linkage analysis. Two-point LOD scores were calculated using the LINKAGE program package (version 5.1). Mutation analysis of candidate genes was performed by direct sequencing.


RESULTS
Thirteen of the 38 individuals had congenital cataracts. The maximum two point LOD score, 3.5 at theta=0.1 was obtained for the marker D2S325. Mutation analysis of the gamma-crystallin gene cluster identified a C --> A mutation in exon 2 of gamma-D crystallin gene (CRYGD) associated with cataracts in this family. This mutation resulted in a substitution of threonine for proline at amino acid 23 (P23T) of the protein.


CONCLUSIONS
The results suggest that the coralliform cataract phenotype is due to a mutated gamma-D gene, and the sequence change is identical with that recently reported to be related with lamellar cataract, a distinct clinical entity, thus providing evidence that the same genetic defect may be associated with different opacity location. The pathogenesis needs further investigation.
Xu
Wei-zhen
WZ
Cancer Institute, Zhejiang University College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, PR China.
Zheng
Shu
S
Xu
Shi-jie
SJ
Huang
Wei
W
Yao
Ke
K
Zhang
Su-zhan
SZ
D001483:Base Sequence; D002386:Cataract / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000235:genetics*; D004247:DNA / Q000737:chemistry / Q000235:genetics; D004252:DNA Mutational Analysis; D005192:Family Health; D005260:Female; D005799:Genes, Dominant / Q000235:genetics; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease / Q000235:genetics*; D005820:Genetic Testing; D006801:Humans; D008126:Lod Score; D008297:Male; D009154:Mutation; D010375:Pedigree; D010641:Phenotype; D020033:Protein Isoforms / Q000235:genetics; D038222:gamma-Crystallins / Q000235:genetics
D020033:Protein Isoforms; D038222:gamma-Crystallins; D004247:DNA