Abstract:
Background: Guanine deletion 35delG in GJB2 exon 2 is the pathogenic mutation responsible for up to 70% of cases of congenital non-syndromic
sensorineural hearing loss (NSHL) among Europeans. The early molecular diagnostic of hearing loss nature has become important while considering
the cochlear implants. The purpose of this study was to establish the frequency of 35delG deletion in GJB2 gene among patients with severe NSHL and
its prevalence among Moldovan residents with normal hearing.
Material and methods: 40 patients with congenital bilateral profound NSHL and 300 individuals with normal hearing were examined for deletion 35delG,
by using Custom TaqMan SNP genotyping Assay.
Results: 12 (30%) patients with homozygous genotype for 35delG mutation were identified, whereas 8 patients (20%) were heterozygous. The study
reported 4 (1.33%) carriers of 35delG mutation among 300 Moldovan individuals with normal hearing.
Conclusions: The present study results suggest a need for including the 35delG molecular testing into the national program of neonatal screening of
hearing loss. Considerations on the genetic carrier testing should be made in genetic counseling and family planning.
Description:
Laboratory of Genetics, Center for Drug Research,
Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Chisinau, the Republic of Moldova,
Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, Romania.
The 75th anniversary of Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy of the Republic of Moldova (1945-2020)