Novel mutations responsible for α-thalassemia in Iranian families

Hemoglobin. 2013;37(2):148-59. doi: 10.3109/03630269.2013.763821. Epub 2013 Feb 12.

Abstract

α-Thalassemia (α-thal) is usually caused by deletions on the α-globin gene cluster and the role of point mutations is less well investigated. In the present study, a total of 1048 individuals with hypochromic microcytic anemia, who did not present the most common α-thal deletions, were referred for α-globin gene DNA sequencing. The nucleotide changes were studied and a total of five new mutations was identified, of which three were located on the α2 gene [codon7 (Lys→Stop), codon 34 (Leu→Pro) and codon 83 (Leu→Arg)] and two on the α1 gene [IVS-I-116 (A>G) and codon 44 (+C)]. These novel mutations not only explain new findings by molecular analysis of the α-globin gene but also have clinical importance due to their changes in α-globin production in means of decreased hemoglobin (Hb) related values. Moreover, considerations of its role in combination with other mutations, and the possibility of causing Hb H (β4) are yet to be studied.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Codon / genetics
  • DNA Mutational Analysis
  • Family Health
  • Female
  • Genetic Testing
  • Geography
  • Humans
  • Iran / epidemiology
  • Male
  • Mutation*
  • Prevalence
  • Young Adult
  • alpha-Globins / genetics*
  • alpha-Thalassemia / diagnosis
  • alpha-Thalassemia / epidemiology
  • alpha-Thalassemia / genetics*

Substances

  • Codon
  • alpha-Globins