Annexe: Rett Syndrome and MeCP2 Mutations
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Questions and Answers

What is the main focus of the provided text?

  • The role of reduced expression of Ube3a and Gabrb3 in mouse brain.
  • The genetic cause of Rett syndrome and its impact on gene expression. (correct)
  • The mechanism of reduced expression of Ube3a and Gabrb3 in mouse brain.
  • The identification of a novel, alternatively spliced isoform of MeCP2.
  • What effect was observed in the brain of mutant mice with reduced expression of Ube3a and Gabrb3?

  • Increased expression of Dlx5 and glucocorticoid-regulated genes. (correct)
  • Decreased expression of Dlx5 and glucocorticoid-regulated genes.
  • No significant change in gene expression.
  • Increased expression of Ube3a and Gabrb3.
  • What was the proposed mechanism for the observed gene expression changes in mutant mice?

  • Alterations in the protein synthesis machinery.
  • Direct binding of Mecp2 to the regulatory regions of these genes. (correct)
  • Indirect regulation through a complex signaling pathway.
  • Changes in the chromatin structure and accessibility.
  • What does the author conclude about the magnitude of the transcriptional effects observed in the mutant mice?

    <p>They are moderate and could potentially contribute to some aspects of the phenotype. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the discovery of the genetic cause of Rett syndrome?

    <p>All of the above. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main characteristic of the newly identified isoform of MeCP2?

    <p>It has a novel N-terminus. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the percentage of total MeCP2 in the brain that is represented by the newly identified isoform?

    <p>More than 90% (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of Rett syndrome?

    <p>Typically affects males. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary characteristic of individuals with Rett syndrome?

    <p>Progressive decline in mental and physical abilities after a period of normal development. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the genetic basis for Rett syndrome?

    <p>Mutations in the X-linked gene encoding methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2). (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does MeCP2 dysfunction impact gene expression?

    <p>MeCP2 is a transcription repressor that binds to methylated CpG dinucleotides and alters chromatin structure. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a notable consequence of MeCP2 dysfunction beyond changes in gene expression?

    <p>Abnormalities in RNA splicing. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the prevalence of Rett syndrome?

    <p>One in every 10,000–15,000 females. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the observed deceleration in head growth in girls with Rett syndrome?

    <p>It is an indicator of abnormal brain development. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main purpose of this research article?

    <p>To present a comprehensive overview of Rett syndrome and related disorders. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary characteristic of Rett syndrome that distinguishes it from other neurological disorders with autistic features?

    <p>The specific genetic mutation causing the disorder. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the key role of MeCP2 protein in the context of transcription?

    <p>It acts as a repressor of transcription, halting or reducing gene expression. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the Sin3A–HDAC1–HDAC2 co-repressor complex in relation to MeCP2?

    <p>This complex is recruited by MeCP2 to facilitate gene silencing by modifying histone modifications. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary evidence that led to the discovery of MeCP2's role in regulating transcription?

    <p>Demonstrating that MeCP2 protein was capable of repressing gene expression in vitro. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the presence of a stop codon at amino acid position 309 in Mecp2 (Mecp2308) affect the protein?

    <p>It leads to the production of a truncated protein lacking a functional transcription repression domain. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the approximate distance from the mRNA initiation site that MeCP2 can repress transcription?

    <p>2 kilobases (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these brain regions was specifically targeted in the study to investigate the role of Mecp2 in post-mitotic neurons?

    <p>Forebrain, hippocampus and brainstem (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the outcome of injecting Mecp2 into specific brain regions of knockout mice?

    <p>It caused a delay in the onset of phenotypes similar to those observed in knockout mice. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Based on the table, what is a possible phenotypic outcome of a male carrying a MECP2 gene duplication?

    <p>Early-onset bipolar disorder (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary effect of MeCP2 on transcription in the given context?

    <p>MeCP2 represses transcription by binding to methylated DNA. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of neuronal development, what role does MeCP2 play?

    <p>MeCP2 is primarily involved in neuronal maturation, influencing the development of mature neuronal functions. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the provided text, what is the relationship between MeCP2 deficiency and Rett syndrome?

    <p>MeCP2 deficiency contributes to Rett syndrome, resulting in impaired neuronal maturation and dysfunction. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a factor that has been implicated in Rett syndrome based on the provided text?

    <p>Mutations in genes responsible for the synthesis of neurotransmitters. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the evidence that MeCP2 interacts with the basal transcription machinery?

    <p>MeCP2's ability to repress transcription suggests it interacts with the machinery responsible for gene expression. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of MeCP2's ability to act 'at a distance' in the context of transcription?

    <p>It implies that MeCP2 can regulate transcription of genes located far away from its binding site. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the implication of the finding that MeCP2 deficiency causes reduced expression of UBE3A and GABRB3?

    <p>MeCP2 dysfunction may contribute to other neurodevelopmental disorders besides Rett syndrome. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main argument made by the authors regarding the role of MeCP2 in Rett syndrome?

    <p>MeCP2 dysfunction leads to various neurological issues, including those observed in Rett syndrome. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the newly identified isoform of MeCP2 in relation to Rett syndrome?

    <p>It provides insights into mechanisms of epigenetic memory. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was identified that is specific for the new MeCP2 isoform?

    <p>Rett-causing mutations that were not associated with the previous isoform. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the research suggest about mild overexpression of MeCP2?

    <p>It is detrimental, causing progressive neurological impairments. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the relationship between MeCP2 and DNA methylation?

    <p>MeCP2 links DNA methylation to histone methylation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which disorder is closely associated with mutations in the CDKL5 gene?

    <p>Early onset seizures with Rett-like features. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the study of MeCP2 function in Rett syndrome imply for future research?

    <p>It holds promise for understanding epigenetic mechanisms. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How is Rett syndrome primarily categorized?

    <p>As a complex neurological and behavioral disorder. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary focus of the groundbreaking research findings related to MeCP2?

    <p>Examining gene mutations linked to specific protein isoforms. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of phenotype is exhibited in mice due to CpG binding protein-2 in CNS neurons?

    <p>Rett-like phenotype (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What neurological symptoms are caused by a null mutation in Mecp2 in mice?

    <p>Symptoms mimicking Rett syndrome (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a reported result regarding MECp2 duplications in mice?

    <p>Abnormalities in social interactions (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effects on synaptic function are associated with Mecp2308 mutant mice?

    <p>Impaired synaptic function (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant impact of DNA methylation on MeCP2?

    <p>It specifies chromosomal localization (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following aspects is NOT reported in regards to the behavioral characteristics of mice models of Rett syndrome?

    <p>Increased sensory processing (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which outcome is associated with the presence of truncated MeCP2 in mice?

    <p>Symptoms resembling Rett syndrome (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which research finding relates to the behavior of mutant mice described in the content?

    <p>Alterations in memory formation (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    MECP2

    A gene associated with Rett syndrome that encodes a protein involved in gene regulation.

    Rett syndrome

    A neurodevelopmental disorder mainly affecting girls, characterized by normal early development followed by loss of skills.

    Splice isoform

    A variant of mRNA produced from the same gene due to alternative splicing, leading to different protein variants.

    CDKL5

    A gene linked to early-onset seizures and Rett-like features, known for its role in neurodevelopment.

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    Epigenetic memory

    The process where cells remember gene expression changes despite identical DNA sequences, often influenced by external factors.

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    Methylation

    The addition of a methyl group to DNA, influencing gene expression without altering the sequence.

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    Neuronal impairment

    Progressive loss of functions related to neuron activity, leading to neurological disorders.

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    Dnmt1

    An enzyme that maintains DNA methylation patterns during cell division.

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    Ube3a

    A gene encoding ubiquitin protein ligase E3A, involved in protein degradation.

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    Glucocorticoid-regulated genes

    Genes influenced by glucocorticoids, hormones that regulate stress responses.

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    Dlx5

    A transcription factor involved in neurodevelopment, misexpressed in Rett syndrome.

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    Transcriptional effects

    Changes in gene expression levels that affect the phenotype.

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    Alternative splicing

    A process that generates multiple protein isoforms from a single gene.

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    Phenotypic abnormality

    Observable traits that result from genetic or environmental influences.

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    X-linked inheritance

    A type of genetic inheritance where the gene causing the disorder is found on the X chromosome.

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    Neurological manifestations

    Symptoms related to the nervous system that arise from disorders like Rett syndrome.

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    Developmental milestones

    Key skills and physical abilities that children typically develop at certain ages; delay signals disorders.

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    Microcephaly

    Abnormally small head size, often associated with developmental disorders like Rett syndrome.

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    RNA splicing abnormalities

    Changes in the process of modifying RNA, which may lead to misregulated gene expression in Rett syndrome.

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    Gene misregulation

    When genes are not expressed correctly, leading to dysfunction; a key feature of Rett syndrome pathology.

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    MeCP2 Protein

    A protein that binds to methylated DNA and is key in neurodevelopment.

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    CpG Binding Protein

    Proteins that interact with methylated CpG sites in DNA, affecting gene regulation.

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    Mouse Mecp2-null Mutation

    A mutation eliminating the MeCP2 gene in mice, causing symptoms similar to Rett syndrome.

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    Hyperacetylation of Histone H3

    An increase in acetylation of histone H3, typically linked to gene activation.

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    Learning and Memory Impairment

    Deficits in acquiring and retaining information, observed in mutant mice models.

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    Synaptic Plasticity

    The ability of synapses to strengthen or weaken over time, crucial for learning.

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    Abnormalities in Social Interactions

    Changes or deficits in social behavior, often noted in rodent models of Rett syndrome.

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    MeCP2 dysfunction

    A set of clinical phenotypes resulting from mutations in the MECP2 gene affecting neurological functions.

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    Classic Rett syndrome

    A severe neurodevelopmental disorder predominantly affecting females, characterized by loss of purposeful hand use and speech development.

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    Atypical Rett syndrome

    A form of Rett syndrome where some abilities, like speech or hand function, remain intact.

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    Infantile encephalopathy

    A severe developmental disorder in infants, linked to MeCP2 gene dysfunction, leading to cognitive impairment.

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    Angelman syndrome phenotype

    A neuro-genetic disorder that can appear similar to Rett syndrome, characterized by developmental delay and seizures.

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    MECP2 gene duplications

    Genetic mutations leading to an increase in copies of the MECP2 gene, causing severe cognitive and physical impairment in those affected.

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    Transcriptional repression

    The process by which MeCP2 regulates gene expression by inhibiting transcription in certain contexts.

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    Mecp2 knockout mice

    Mice genetically modified to lack the MeCP2 gene, used in research to study the effects of MeCP2 dysfunction.

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    Biogenic Amines

    Organic compounds that serve as neurotransmitters and play roles in mood and cognition.

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    Neuronal Maturation

    The process by which neurons develop their functions and characteristics.

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    Chromatin Remodeling

    The structural alteration of chromatin that influences gene expression.

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    UBE3A and GABRB3

    Genes with expression linked to MECP2 deficiency and involved in neurological functions.

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    Imprinting

    The epigenetic phenomenon where genes are expressed in a parent-of-origin manner.

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    BDNF Gene Regulation

    The process by which brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is controlled, important for neuron survival and growth.

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    Study Notes

    • Rett syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder primarily affecting females.
    • It's caused by mutations in the X-linked gene MeCP2.
    • About 1 in 10,000-15,000 females develop Rett syndrome.
    • MeCP2 mutations also cause other neurodevelopmental disorders in both sexes.
    • The overall prevalence of MeCP2 mutations in the population is unknown.
    • Symptoms usually emerge between 6 and 18 months old, with deceleration of head growth (microcephaly).
    • There's a loss of acquired language, cognitive, and motor skills.
    • Cognitive impairment, language dysfunction, and social withdrawal are common features of MeCP2 mutations.
    • Motor abnormalities, such as gait apraxia, ataxia, spasticity, tremors, and dystonia are common.
    • Stereotyped hand movements (like hand-wringing) replace typical hand skills.
    • Seizures and breathing irregularities (hyperventilation and apnea) are also common.

    MeCP2 Mutations

    • MeCP2 mutations account for up to 96% of Classic Rett syndrome cases.
    • Initial studies showed 70-75% of Rett syndrome cases had MeCP2 mutations.
    • MeCP2 mutations causing Rett syndrome include missense, frameshift, and nonsense mutations, and intragenic deletions.
    • Approximately 70% of mutations are C-T transitions at specific CpG dinucleotides.
    • Carboxy-terminal deletions are estimated to occur in 10-15% of patients.
    • The MeCP2 gene is located on Xq28 and subject to X-chromosome inactivation.
    • It has 4 exons spanning over 75kb.
    • Two MeCP2 isoforms exist: one with exons 1, 3, and 4, and another with exon 1 as 5'UTR and exons 2, 3, and 4.
    • Exon 1 mutations are rare (<1%). Exon 2 mutations are even rarer.
    • Mutations in MeCP2 can be associated with various phenotypes in males, from severe encephalopathy to milder neurological/psychiatric issues.

    MeCP2 as a Transcriptional Repressor

    • MeCP2 is a transcriptional repressor binding to methylated CpG dinucleotides.
    • It recruits co-repressor complexes, altering chromatin structure.
    • MeCP2 dysfunction can cause RNA splicing abnormalities.
    • Identifying genes affected and how they cause neuronal dysfunction is important in understanding Rett syndrome.
    • MeCP2 has a high-affinity RNA binding activity, independent of its DNA-binding properties.
    • MeCP2 interacts with RNA-binding protein YB1 and regulates RNA splicing.

    Mouse Models

    • Several mouse models of Rett syndrome have been created, varying in mutations and severity.
    • Knockout models show progressive neurological dysfunction and early death.
    • Truncating mutations (like Mecp2308) lead to milder phenotypes, mimicking some neurological features seen in girls with Rett syndrome
    • These models are crucial to studying the mechanisms of disease.

    Target Genes and Epigenetic Regulation

    • MeCP2 function has a significant global impact but not all genes are globally affected, some subtle changes can only be discerned with gene group analysis.
    • Scientists are investigating which genes are regulated by MeCP2.
    • MeCP2's influence on RNA splicing is also under investigation.
    • Maintaining MeCP2 levels is crucial for proper neurological function.

    Other Points

    • In females, Rett syndrome onset is typically postnatal.
    • Girls initially appear normal at birth before developing symptoms.
    • The severity of the symptoms can vary considerably between affected individuals.

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    Description

    Explore the complexities of Rett syndrome and related disorders, focusing on MeCP2 mutations. This quiz covers symptoms, prevalence, and the impact on cognitive and motor skills. Test your knowledge about this neurodevelopmental disorder primarily affecting females.

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