Novel de novo EEF1A2 missense mutations causing epilepsy and intellectual disability

DDD study

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

49 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background Exome sequencing has led to the discovery of mutations in novel causative genes for epilepsy. One such gene is EEF1A2, encoding a neuromuscular specific translation elongation factor, which has been found to be mutated de novo in five cases of severe epilepsy. We now report on a further seven cases, each with a different mutation, of which five are newly described. Methods New cases were identified and sequenced through the Deciphering Developmental Disabilities project, via direct contact with neurologists or geneticists, or recruited via our website. Results All the mutations cause epilepsy and intellectual disability, but with a much wider range of severity than previously identified. All new cases share specific subtle facial dysmorphic features. Each mutation occurs at an evolutionarily highly conserved amino acid position indicating strong structural or functional selective pressure. Conclusions EEF1A2 should be considered as a causative gene not only in cases of epileptic encephalopathy but also in children with less severe epilepsy and intellectual disability. The emergence of a possible discernible phenotype, a broad nasal bridge, tented upper lip, everted lower lip and downturned corners of the mouth may help in identifying patients with mutations in EEF1A2.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)465-474
Number of pages10
JournalMolecular Genetics and Genomic Medicine
Volume4
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 1 2016

Keywords

  • Autism
  • EEF1A2
  • Epilepsy
  • Intellectual disability
  • Translation elongation

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics
  • Genetics(clinical)

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