Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome is a rare genetic condition caused by a mutation in the LMNA gene. This mutation prevents the normal processing of prelamin A protein, leaving it permanently anchored to the nuclear membrane. As a result, children with progeria exhibit rapid aging effects, including limited growth, hair loss, stiff joints, wrinkled skin, heart disease, and usually pass away from heart attacks or strokes at an average age of 14 years old.
4. Steps in normal cell Steps in cell with progeria
The gene LMNA encodes a
protein called prelamin A.
The gene LMNA encodes a
protein called prelamin A.
Prelamin A has a farnesyl
group attached to its end.
Prelamin A has a farnesyl
group attached to its end.
Farnesyl group is removed from
prelamin A.
Farnesyl group
remains attached to prelamin A.
Normal form is called lamin A.
Abnormal form of prelamin A is
called progerin.
Lamin A is not anchored to the
nuclear rim.
Progerin is anchored to the
nuclear rim.
Normal state of the nucleus. Abnormally shaped nucleus.
5. • Limited growth, full-body alopecia
• Scleroderma
• wrinkled skin, atherosclerosis, kidney failure,
loss of eyesight, and cardiovascular problems
• narrow face and a beak nose
• small, fragile bodies, like those of elderly
people
• a small face with a shallow recessed jaw, and a
pinched nose
extremely rare genetic disorder (occur in 1 in 4 million newborns worldwide)
At a very early age, children show aging symptoms
genetic condition that occurs as a new mutation, and is rarely inherited, as patients usually do not live to reproduce
Mutation of LMNA gene in nucleus
Prominent scalp veins are noticeable
6 years old, from Texas.
Lonafarnib, a type of farnesyltransferase inhibitor (FTI)
Sam Berns – HBO Documentary ‘Life According to Sam’