Affiliation:
1. 1School of Life Science and Technology, the Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, 2 Sipailou Rd, Nanjing 210096, China
2. 2Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China
Abstract
Mutations in the polyglutamine tract-binding protein 1 (PQBP1) gene are associated with Renpenning syndrome, which is characterized by microcephaly, intellectual deficiency, short stature, small testes, and distinct facial dysmorphism. Studies using different models have revealed that PQBP1 plays essential roles in neural development and function. In this mini-review, we summarize recent findings relating to the roles of PQBP1 in these processes, including in the regulation of neural progenitor proliferation, neural projection, synaptic growth, neuronal survival, and cognitive function via mRNA transcription and splicing-dependent or -independent processes. The novel findings provide insights into the mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of Renpenning syndrome and may advance drug discovery and treatment for this condition.