Validation of high-resolution DNA melting analysis for mutation scanning of the LMNA gene.
OBJECTIVE
LMNA mutations lead to a wide spectrum of disorders now called laminopathies. Due to large cohorts to investigate, mutational screening must be performed using an extremely sensitive and specific scanning method.


METHODS
High Resolution Melting (HRM) analysis was developed for LMNA mutation detection. A cohort of 64 patients with dilated cardiomyopathy was prospectively screened using both HRM and DHPLC methodologies.


RESULTS
All gene variants detected by DHPLC or by direct sequencing were also readily identified as abnormal by HRM analysis. Mutations were identified in 7 patients (approximately 11%). Complete molecular LMNA investigation was completed two times faster and cheaper than using DHPLC strategy.


CONCLUSIONS
HRM analysis represents an inexpensive, highly sensitive and high-throughput method to identify LMNA genetic variants. The discovery of novel LMNA mutations will provide new insights into the pathophysiology of dilated cardiomyopathy and in all other laminopathies.
Millat
Gilles
G
Laboratoire de Cardiogénétique Moléculaire, Centre de Biologie et Pathologie Est, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France. gilles.millat@chu-lyon.fr
Chanavat
Valérie
V
Julia
Sophie
S
Crehalet
Hervé
H
Bouvagnet
Patrice
P
Rousson
Robert
R