A Novel Methyl-CpG Binding Protein 2 (MECP2) Variant in an Indian Girl with Rett Syndrome

Abstract

Rett syndrome is an X-linked dominant disorder that is primarily seen in females and is linked to mutations in the gene coding for Methyl-CpG Binding Protein 2 (MECP2). It is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by impairments in language, repetitive movements, early-onset seizures, delayed growth, autistic features, intellectual disability and abnormal Electroencephalograms (EEG). Author’s reported a case of three year six months old Indian girl who was born of a nonconsanguineous marriage presented with stereotypic hand movements, gradual loss of speech, inability to walk independently and frequent episodes of seizure. Genetic testing for analysis of MECP2 mutations was performed and a novel de novo missense variant (c.361G>A, p.Asp121Asn) was identified, which was predicted to be disease causing on the basis of insilico analysis and clinical findings. The study suggested that a careful evaluation of the pathogenic nature of MECP2 variants supports clinical diagnosis and aids in genetic counseling and patient management.