Genetics

Based on a literature and database analysis, the predicted genetic prevalence of disease-related variants in the GAA gene — the underlying cause of Pompe disease — is higher in the Korean population than in Japanese, a study indicates. The study, “Two Approaches for a Genetic Analysis…

A better understanding of Pompe disease-causing genetic mutations may help with early treatment intervention, even if symptoms are subtle, a small Hungarian study suggests. Researchers found that the precise localization of a mutation determines the impact on GAA enzyme activity, which in turn has been associated with disease onset.

Four new mutations in the GAA gene have been identified in a group of people with late-onset Pompe disease (LOPD), according to a study in Spain. The study “Genotype–phenotype correlation of 17 cases of Pompe disease in Spanish patients and identification of 4 novel GAA variants” was published in the Orphanet…

The type of genetic mutation carried by a Pompe disease patient appears to predict whether the disease is infantile- or late-onset, according to a study. However, newly diagnosed patients should still undergo complete genetic, cardiac, and neurological tests, scientists stated. The study, “Phenotypic implications of pathogenic…

Deferoxamine, a medication normally used to remove excess iron and aluminum from the body, can counteract the effects of a disease-causing genetic variant often found in people with late-onset Pompe disease (LOPD). These findings highlight the potential of drug repurposing for the development of new therapies for LOPD,…

A CRISPR gene-editing approach was used to correct two distinct Pompe disease mutations and to develop computer simulations for optimizing gene therapies. These computer models may help scientists develop and test gene-editing strategies for diseases, such as Pompe, that are polygenic, or caused by more…

Pompe disease is a rare, progressive, neuromuscular genetic disorder characterized by muscle damage and weakness. Fatigue, excessive daytime sleepiness, and sleep disturbances are common, especially in the late-onset form of the disease. How Pompe disease may affect sleep As Pompe disease progresses, the abnormal buildup of glycogen — sugar molecules…

Rare and chronic conditions such as Pompe disease can take an emotional toll on patients and caregivers on top of everything else. Between symptoms such as muscle weakness and fatigue, and feelings of isolation, coping can be a challenge. It may seem as if hardly anyone understands what…

Pompe disease is a multisystem disorder that affects about one in 40,000 people in the U.S. Raising awareness about this rare genetic disease could mean more patients would benefit from earlier diagnosis and treatment. Here are some facts about Pompe disease, and efforts to make it…

A skin biopsy is one of the tests that doctors can use to help diagnose Pompe disease, a rare genetic disease characterized by the buildup of complex sugar molecules called glycogen in muscle and other tissues. This buildup may interfere with function and cause the symptoms…