Research Paper: 2016 Smigiel

Date Published : 02/16/2016

Summary: Novel COL4A1 Mutation in an Infant with Severe Dysmorphic Syndrome with Schizencephaly, Periventricular Calcifications, and Cataract Resembling Congenital Infection

Abstract:

Background: A clinical case is described of growth retardation, severe developmental delay, facial dysmorphic features with microcephaly, as well as congenital cataract, schizencephaly, periventricular calcifications, and epilepsy. Methods: TORCH infection was suspected, but all tests for toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus, and herpes simplex virus were negative for the child and her mother; however, an increased level of antibodies against parvovirus B19 was detected in the proband. Results: Chromosomal analysis and array-CGH showed no aberration. Target capture sequencing for COL4A1 and COL4A2 revealed a de novo COL4A1 mutation (c.2123G>T [p.Gly708Val]). The mutation occurred at a highly conserved Gly residue in the Gly-X-Y repeat of the collagen triple helical domain, suggesting that these mutations may alter the collagen IV a1a1a2 heterotrimers. The mutation was predicted to be damaging. Conclusion: We suggest that COL4A1 testing should be considered in patients with schizencephaly as well as with phenotype suggesting TORCH infection without any proven etiological factors.