[Genetic analysis of a pedigree affected with tuberous sclerosis complex caused by a novel mutation of TSC1].

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the clinical phenotype of a Chinese pedigree affected with Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) and explore pathogenic mutations of TSC1 and TSC2 gene.

METHODS

Unique clinical phenotypes，the results of imaging, examination of the proband and special family history, collectively, made the constellation of features of TSC. Genomic DNA was obtained from six affected and eight unaffected members of the family and potential mutations of the TSC1 and TSC2 genes were detected by PCR-amplification of the exons and exon-intron boundaries and direct sequencing. A total of 150 normal unrelated individuals were used as controls.

RESULTS

Genetic analysis documented the presence of a heterozygous mutation, c.1781_1782delTG (p.Val594GlyfsX11), in the exon 15 of TSC1 gene within all the patients of the family. This mutation was not observed in the eight unaffected family members or in the 150 unrelated control subjects from the same population , or the Human Gene Mutation Database (HGMD) and had completely co-segregated with the disease phenotype in the family.

CONCLUSION

The c.1781_1782delTG mutation of TSC1 gene may be responsible for the tuberous sclerosis complex in this family. The data presented in the present study are of significance to clinicians, as well as genetic counselors, and may provide new clues for molecular diagnosis of this disease．.