Authors: Barisic, N.; Claeys, K. G.; Sirotković-Skerlev, M.¹; Löfgren, A.²; Nelis, E.²; De Jonghe, P.; Timmerman, V.³

Source: Annals of Human Genetics, Volume 72, Number 3, May 2008 , pp. 416-441(26)

Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell

Abstract:

Summary

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) is the most common neuromuscular disorder. It represents a group of clinically and genetically heterogeneous inherited neuropathies. Here, we review the results of molecular genetic investigations and the clinical and neurophysiological features of the different CMT subtypes. The products of genes associated with CMT phenotypes are important for the neuronal structure maintenance, axonal transport, nerve signal transduction and functions related to the cellular integrity. Identifying the molecular basis of CMT and studying the relevant genes and their functions is important to understand the pathophysiological mechanisms of these neurodegenerative disorders , and the processes involved in the normal development and function of the peripheral nervous system. The results of molecular genetic investigations have impact on the appropriate diagnosis, genetic counselling and possible new therapeutic options for CMT patients.

Keywords: Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease; molecular genetics; gene product function; neurophysiology; phenotype

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1469-1809.2007.00412.x

Affiliations: 1: Department of Pathophysiology, Zagreb University Medical School, Zagreb, Croatia 2: Neurogenetics Group, Department of Molecular Genetics, “VIB”, University of Antwerp, Antwerpen, Belgium 3: Peripheral Neuropathy Group, Department of Molecular Genetics, “VIB”, University of Antwerp, Antwerpen, Belgium

Publication date: 2008-05-01

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