TFG p.G269V mutation disrupts motor neuron function in iPSC-derived models via Wnt signaling dysregulation
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), an inherited neuropathy characterized by progressive distal muscle weakness and atrophy, is associated with axonal impairment. Although mutations in the TRK-fused gene (TFG) have been linked to both CMT and hereditary spastic paraplegia, their pathogenic mechanisms remain poorly understood. Previously, we have demonstrated that the TFG p.G269V mutation causes progressive muscle weakness in patients, impairs neurite outgrowth in primary cultured mouse neurons, and induces neuronal apoptosis in zebrafish, suggesting a conserved role in neurodevelopment. To investigate its effects in human models, we established induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from patients carrying the mutation and generated homologous correction lines using CRISPR/Cas9 editing. Both cell lines differentiated into motor neurons (MNs). Although neuronal differentiation and the expression of maturation markers were comparable, the patient-derived MNs exhibited significant axonal shortening and accumulated insoluble aggregates. Electrophysiological assessment revealed functional deficits, including reduced spontaneous and evoked action potential frequencies and elevated rheobase. Transcriptomic analysis revealed dysregulation of Wnt signaling, and pharmacological inhibition of this pathway further exacerbated the loss of neuronal excitability. Our findings indicate that the TFG p.G269V mutation autonomously disrupts MN morphology and function and that these defects can be reversed using genetic correction. Moreover, dysregulated Wnt signaling may contribute to the pathophysiology of TFG-associated neuropathy. Overall design: iPSC differentiation into MNPs and subsequently to differentiated neurons