Genetics (clinical)

Network-based approaches to explore complex biological systems towards network medicine

Network medicine relies on different types of networks: from the molecular level of protein–protein interactions to gene regulatory network and correlation studies of gene expression. Among network approaches based on the analysis of the topological properties of protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks, we discuss the widespread DIAMOnD (disease module detection) algorithm.

Primary lymphedema and other lymphatic anomalies are associated with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome

Background: Lymphedema is an abnormal accumulation of interstitial fluid within the tissues. Primary lymphedema is caused by aberrant lymphangiogenesis and it has been historically classified based on age at presentation. Although most cases are sporadic, primary lymphedema may be familial or present in association with chromosomal abnormalities and syndromic disorders. To the best of our knowledge, primary lymphedema has never been described in patients with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome.

Congenital heart diseases and cardiovascular abnormalities in 22q11.2 deletion syndrome: From well-established knowledge to new frontiers

Congenital heart diseases (CHDs) and cardiovascular abnormalities are one of the pillars of clinical diagnosis of 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11.2DS) and still represent the main cause of mortality in the affected children. In the past 30 years, much progress has been made in describing the anatomical patterns of CHD, in improving their diagnosis, medical treatment, and surgical procedures for these conditions, as well as in understanding the underlying genetic and developmental mechanisms.

KAT3B-p300 and H3AcK18/H3AcK14 levels are prognostic markers for kidney ccRCC tumor aggressiveness and target of KAT inhibitor CPTH2

Background: Kidney cancer and clear cell renal carcinoma (ccRCC) are the 16th most common cause of death worldwide. ccRCC is often metastasized at diagnosis, and surgery remains the main treatment; therefore, early diagnosis and new therapeutic strategies are highly desirable. KAT inhibitor CPTH2 lowers histone H3 acetylation and induces apoptosis in colon cancer and cultured cerebellar granule neurons. In this study, we have evaluated the effects of CPTH2 on ccRCC 786-O cell line and analyzed drug targets expressed in ccRCC tumor tissues at different grade.

Exploring relationships between joint hypermobility and neurodevelopment in children (4–13 years) with hereditary connective tissue disorders and developmental coordination disorder

Joint hypermobility (JH) is a common, though largely ignored physical trait with increasing clinical reverberations. A few papers suggest a link between JH and selected neurodevelopmental disorders, such as developmental coordination disorder (DCD). JH is also the hallmark of various hereditary connective tissue disorders (HCTDs). Children with HCTDs may present abnormal neurodevelopment but its manifestations remain undetermined.

Patient experience and utility of genetic information: a cross-sectional study among patients tested for cancer susceptibility and thrombophilia

We evaluated whether genetic tests with evidence of clinical and personal utility (i.e. APC and BRCA1/2 tests) are associated with higher satisfaction and a more positive perception of care experience than those with undefined utility (i.e. tests for thrombophilia). A cross-sectional survey was performed through telephone interviews to patients tested for deleterious variants in APC or BRCA1/2 genes, or for inherited thrombophilia (FV Leiden and/or FIIG20210A) during a 5-year period (2008–2012).

LTBP2-related “Marfan-like” phenotype in two Roma/Gypsy subjects with the LTBP2 homozygous p.R299X variant

Recessive variants in LTBP2 are associated with eye-restricted phenotypes including (a) primary congenital glaucoma and (b) microspherophakia/megalocornea and ectopia lentis with/without secondary glaucoma. Nosology of LTBP2 pathology in humans is apparently in contrast with the consolidated evidence of a wide expression of this gene in the developing embryo.

Mutations in KCNK4 that Affect Gating Cause a Recognizable Neurodevelopmental Syndrome

Aberrant activation or inhibition of potassium (K+) currents across the plasma membrane of cells has been causally linked to altered neurotransmission, cardiac arrhythmias, endocrine dysfunction, and (more rarely) perturbed developmental processes. The K+ channel subfamily K member 4 (KCNK4), also known as TRAAK (TWIK-related arachidonic acid-stimulated K+ channel), belongs to the mechano-gated ion channels of the TRAAK/TREK subfamily of two-pore-domain (K2P) K+ channels.

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