Novel L284R MAPT mutation in a family with an autosomal dominant progressive supranuclear palsy syndrome

Neurodegener Dis. 2011;8(3):149-52. doi: 10.1159/000319454. Epub 2010 Sep 14.

Abstract

Background: MAPT mutations are associated with disorders within the frontotemporal lobar degeneration spectrum. The usual presenting syndrome is behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia, although some patients present with parkinsonism. In a number of these cases the dominant clinical features have been consistent with a progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) syndrome.

Objective: To describe a family with an autosomal dominant PSP syndrome with a novel L284R mutation in the MAPT gene.

Methods: A retrospective case review and genetic analysis of the MAPT gene. A literature review of PSP syndromes associated with mutations in the MAPT gene.

Results: Multiple members of family DRC292 across different generations had a PSP syndrome with 1 member of the family being found to have a novel L284R mutation in the MAPT gene. Behavioural features were also prominent in most cases. A PSP syndrome is only a rare finding associated with MAPT mutations and many of these cases have atypical clinical features.

Conclusion: Although rare, MAPT mutations should be considered when there is an autosomal dominant family history of a PSP syndrome, particularly of young onset and with prominent behavioural features.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Amino Acid Sequence
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Molecular Sequence Data
  • Mutation / genetics*
  • Pedigree
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Supranuclear Palsy, Progressive / genetics*
  • tau Proteins / genetics*

Substances

  • MAPT protein, human
  • tau Proteins