Metabolomics,Unknown,Transcriptomics,Genomics,Proteomics

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Mutations in BCKD-kinase lead to a potentially treatable form of autism with epilepsy

ABSTRACT: Autism is present in 1% of the population, yet treatments are extremely limited. We identified homozygous inactivating mutations in the BCKDK gene in families presenting with autism and epilepsy. The encoded branched chain ketoacid dehydrogenase kinase protein is responsible for phosphorylation-mediated inactivation of the E1-alpha subunit of branched chain ketoacid dehydrogenase, itself mutated in Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD). Patients with homozygous BCKDK mutations display reductions in BCKDK mRNA and protein, E1-alpha phosphorylation and serum branched chain amino acids (BCAAs). Bckdk knockout mice show abnormal brain amino acids profiles and neurobehavioral defects, which are largely corrected by dietary BCAA supplementation. Thus autism presenting with epilepsy due to BCKDK mutations represent a new and potentially treatable disease. A 51 chip study that includes both human and mouse samples to investigate the expression changes that result in a mutation or knockout of the BCKDK gene. Starting with human fibroblasts from three affecteds and two controls, cells were converted into IPSs, then NPCs, and finally Neurons. Each of these cell types were used to view the expression changes between a cells with a BCKDK mutation versus controls. Finally, a mouse knockout was performed to verify consistency of the expression pattern differences between the BCKCK knockout and wild-type. Samples are labeled as Affected if the sample came from a patient with a BCKDK mutation and WildType otherwise. Samples were usually replicated once.

ORGANISM(S): Mus musculus

SUBMITTER: Eric Scott

PROVIDER: E-GEOD-39447 | biostudies-arrayexpress |

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-arrayexpress

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Project description:Background: Mutations in the X-linked gene cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 (CDKL5) cause a severe neurological disorder characterised by early-onset epileptic seizures, autism and intellectual disability (ID). Impaired hippocampal function has been implicated in other models of monogenic forms of autism spectrum disorders and ID and is often linked to epilepsy and behavioural abnormalities. Many individuals with CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD) have null mutations and complete loss of CDKL5 protein, therefore in the current study we used a Cdkl5-/y rat model to elucidate the impact of CDKL5 loss on cellular excitability and synaptic function of CA1 pyramidal cells (PCs). We hypothesised abnormal pre and/or post synaptic function underlie the enhanced LTP we observe in the hippocampus of Cdkl5-/y rats. Methods: To allow cross-species comparisons of phenotypes associated with the loss of CDKL5, we generated a loss of function mutation in exon 5 of the rat Cdkl5 gene and assessed the impact of the loss of CDLK5 using a combination of extracellular and whole-cell electrophysiological recordings, biochemistry, and histology. Results: Our results indicate that CA1 hippocampal LTP is enhanced in slices prepared from juvenile, but not adult, Cdkl5-/y rats. Enhanced LTP does not result from changes in NMDA receptor function or subunit expression as these remain unaltered throughout development. Furthermore, Ca2+ permeable AMPA receptor mediated currents are unchanged in Cdkl5-/y rats. We observe reduced mEPSC frequency accompanied by increased spine density in basal dendrites of CA1 PCs, however we find no evidence supporting an increase in silent synapses when assessed using a minimal stimulation protocol in slices. Additionally, we found no change in paired-pulse ratio, consistent with normal release probability at Schaffer collateral to CA1 PC synapses. Conclusions: Our data indicate a role for CDKL5 in hippocampal synaptic function and raise the possibility that altered intracellular signalling rather than synaptic deficits contribute to the altered plasticity. Limitations: This study has focussed on the electrophysiological and anatomical properties of hippocampal CA1 PCs across early postnatal development. Studies involving other brains regions, older animals and behavioural phenotypes associated with the loss of CDKL5 are needed to understand the pathophysiology of CDD.

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Mutations in BCKD-kinase lead to a potentially treatable form of autism with epilepsy

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