Two large novel alpha-globin gene cluster deletions causing alpha (0)-thalassemia in two Chinese families

摘要

Introduction: Monosomy of terminal 16p13.3 is a relatively common subtelomeric abnormality, most affected individuals presented alpha-thalassemia, some also have mental retardation, developmental abnormalities and/or speech delay and facial dysmorphism, which is termed ATR-16 syndrome. Here, we reported two novel 16p13.3 deletions involving the alpha-globin gene cluster and multispecies conserved sequences (MCSs), causing only a phenotype of alpha-thalassemia. @@@ Methods: Samples were collected from members of the two families and were subjected to haematological and comprehensive genetic analysis. @@@ Results: The novel 108 Kb deletion in family A extends from the non-protein coding RNA gene (WASIR2) to the NPRL3 gene, removing MCS-R1 to R3. This deletion should arise de novo because it wasn't detected in both parents. The novel 336 Kb deletion in family B should extend from telomere to similar to chr16:336000, removing the entire alpha-globin gene cluster. Carriers of these two deletions presented with microcytosis and hypochromic red cells, in accordance with a phenotype of alpha(0)-thalassemia carrier. @@@ Conclusion: Our study increases the mutation spectrum of alpha-thalassemia. MCSs deletion should be considered in clinical practice of thalassemia screening and diagnosis.

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