• Journal of Genetic Medicine
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• 제18권1호
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• pp.31-37
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• 2021

Purpose: To summarize the results of chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) for copy number variants (CNVs) detection and clinical utility in a single tertiary hospital. Materials and Methods: We performed CMA in 46 patients over the course of two years. Detected CNVs were classified into five categories according to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics guidelines and correlated with clinical manifestations. Results: A total of 31 CNVs were detected in 19 patients, with a median CNV number per patient of two CNVs. Among these, 16 CNVs were classified as pathogenic (n=3) or likely pathogenic (LP) (n=11) or variant of uncertain significance (n=4). The 16p11.2 deletion and 16p13.11 deletion classified as LP were most often detected in 6.5% (3/46), retrospectively. CMA diagnostic yield was 24.3% (9/37 patients) for symptomatic patients. The CNVs results of the commercial newborn screening test using next generation sequencing platforms showed high concordance with CMA results. Conclusion: CMA seems useful as a first-tier test for developmental delay with or without congenital anomalies. However, the classification and interpretation of CMA still remained a challenge. Further research is needed for evidence-based interpretation.

• Molecules and Cells
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• 제40권2호
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• pp.151-161
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• 2017

Proper synaptic function in neural circuits requires precise pairings between correct pre- and post-synaptic partners. Errors in this process may underlie development of neuropsychiatric disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Development of ASD can be influenced by genetic factors, including copy number variations (CNVs). In this study, we focused on a CNV occurring at the 16p11.2 locus in the human genome and investigated potential defects in synaptic connectivity caused by reduced activities of genes located in this region at Drosophila larval neuromuscular junctions, a well-established model synapse with stereotypic synaptic structures. A mutation of rolled, a Drosophila homolog of human mitogen-activated protein kinase 3 (MAPK3) at the 16p11.2 locus, caused ectopic innervation of axonal branches and their abnormal defasciculation. The specificity of these phenotypes was confirmed by expression of wild-type rolled in the mutant background. Albeit to a lesser extent, we also observed ectopic innervation patterns in mutants defective in Cdk2, Gq, and Gp93, all of which were expected to interact with Rolled MAPK3. A further genetic analysis in double heterozygous combinations revealed a synergistic interaction between rolled and Gp93. In addition, results from RT-qPCR analyses indicated consistently reduced rolled mRNA levels in Cdk2, Gq, and Gp93 mutants. Taken together, these data suggest a central role of MAPK3 in regulating the precise targeting of presynaptic axons to proper postsynaptic targets, a critical step that may be altered significantly in ASD.

• Journal of Interdisciplinary Genomics
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• 제1권1호
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• pp.10-13
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• 2019

A 10-year and 5 month-old girl with developmental delay, intellectual disability, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, poor weight gain, and microcephaly was transferred to our pediatric clinic for genetic evaluation. Her height was within the 5-10th percentile, and her weight was under the 3rd percentile. On the social maturity scale, her developmental status was scored as 3 years 9 months for social age, and the social quotient was 35.98. A chromosomal microarray analysis was performed and the microduplication at chromosome 16p was observed: arr[GRCh37] 16p11.2 (29580020_30190029)${\times}3$. Currently, the patient is diagnosed with Grade 2 intellectual disability and is attending a computerized cognitive rehabilitation class twice weekly. In addition, nutritional support and growth follow up are also ensured in the Pediatric Gastrointestinal and Endocrinology clinic.