As part of the βγ-superfamily, βB2-crystallin (CRYBB2) is an ocular structural protein in the lens, and mutation of the corresponding gene can cause cataracts.
Herein we found that βB2-crystallin Trp fluorescence was greatly enhanced by the introduction of an extra unquenched Trp fluorophore by cataract-associated mutations S31W and R145W.
Mutation screening of the candidate genes detected a heterozygous c.465G → C change in the exon6 of the βB2-crystallin gene (CRYBB2) in all family members affected with cataracts, resulting in the substitution of a highly conserved Tryptophan to Cystine (p.W151C).
Our finding expands the spectrum of cataract phenotypes caused by the Q155X mutation of CRYBB2, confirms the phenotypic heterogeneity of this mutation and suggests the mechanism that influences the congenital cataract formation in different ethnic backgrounds.
Our finding expands the spectrum of cataract phenotypes caused by the Q155X mutation of CRYBB2, confirms the phenotypic heterogeneity of this mutation and suggests the mechanism that influences the congenital cataract formation in different ethnic backgrounds.
Nine Indian families, clinically documented to have congenital/childhood cataracts, were screened for mutations in candidate genes such as CRYG (A-->D), CRYBB2, and GJA8 by PCR analyses and sequencing.
Our studies on candidate genes of eye diseases in the Chinese population in Hong Kong include MYOC and TISR for primary open angle glaucoma, RHO and RP1 for retinitis pigmentosa, ABCA4 and APOE for age-related macular degeneration, RB1 for retinoblastoma, APC for familial adenomatous polyposis with congenital hypertrophy of retinal pigment epithelium, BIGH3/TGFBI for corneal dystrophies, PAX6 for aniridia and Reiger syndrome, CRYAA and CRYBB2 for cataracts, and mtDNA for Leber hereditary optic neuropathy.