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Targeted gene(s)/phenotype under study

Gene: DLX1 

Abstract

By trio-based exome sequencing, we identified a missense variant (c.542C>A:p.S181Y) in DLX1, in a female patient with severe intellectual disability, microcephaly, structural brain anomalies, epilepsy and behavioural anomalies such Rett-like features. Through collaborations, we have collected additional cases with similar phenotype, harbouring either missense or nonsense variants in DLX1

DLX1 encodes a member of a homeobox transcription factor gene family similiar to the Drosophila distal-less gene. It plays a regulatory role in the development of the ventral forebrain, specifically promoting the synthesis, synaptogenesis and dendritogenesis of GABAergic interneurons. Moreover, DLX1 has been  suggested as a candidate gene for Autism spectrum disorder.

We are planning to generate patients’ iPSC-derived neurons and investigate the underlying neurodevelopmental processes by an integrated approach, involving high resolution imaging techniques, electrophysiology and transcriptomics.

In summary there is a growing body of evidence to consider DLX1 as a novel neurodevelopmental disorder gene. We look for further patients with DLX1 variants displaying similar clinical features.

Coordinating clinicians /researchers 

  • Andrea Accogli
  • Valeria Capra

Contact: 

Institution

Medical Genetics
Istituto G.Gaslini
Genoa, Italy

Specific requirements beyond clinical data and genotype data sharing

  • Re-analysis of DNA samples : No
  • Resampling of patients : No
  • Linked to a translational/basic research project? Yes