Hyperekplexia associated with compound heterozygote mutations in the <script type="math/tex">\beta</script>-subunit of the human inhibitory glycine receptor (**GLRB**)

Rees, Mark I.; Lewis, Trevor M.; Kwok, John B.J.; Mortier, Geert R.; Govaert, Paul; Snell, Russell G.; Schofield, Peter R.; Owen, Michael J.

doi:10.1093/HMG/11.7.853

Title

Hyperekplexia associated with compound heterozygote mutations in the $\beta$ -subunit of the human inhibitory glycine receptor (**GLRB**)

Author

Rees, Mark I.

Lewis, Trevor M.

Kwok, John B.J.

Mortier, Geert R.

Govaert, Paul

Snell, Russell G.

Schofield, Peter R.

Owen, Michael J.

Abstract

Hyperekplexia (MIM: 149400) is a neurological disorder characterized by an excessive startle response which can be caused by mutations in the α1-subunit (GLRA1) of the heteropentameric human inhibitory glycine receptor (hGlyR). These receptors facilitate fast-response, inhibitory glycinergic neurotransmission in the brainstem and spinal cord leading to a rapid modification and reduction of the excitatory startle response. Mutations in the β-subunit of GlyR (glrb) occur in a murine model of hyperekplexia (spastic), but have not been detected in human hyperekplexia. Following mutation analysis of the human β-subunit of hGlyR (GLRB) in a cohort of 22 hyperekplexia patients, we provide evidence to confirm that GLRB mutations can cause human hyperekplexia. A missense (G920A resulting in G229D) and a splice site mutation (IVS5+5G→A) occurred together in a compound heterozygote with a transient hyperekplexia phenotype. Exon trap analysis revealed that IVS5+5G→A results in the exclusion of exon 5 from GLRB transcripts. Electrophysiological studies showed reduced sensitivity to agonist mediated activation of the α1β (G229D) GlyR suggesting that GlyR β‐subunits are not restricted to conferring modulatory influences and maintaining structural integrity, but may also play a functional role in hGlyR ligand binding.

Language

English

Source (journal)

Human molecular genetics. - Oxford

Publication

Oxford : 2002

ISSN

0964-6906

DOI

10.1093/HMG/11.7.853

Volume/pages

11 :7 (2002) , p. 853-860