Genetic Mutations in Cell Junction Proteins Associated with Brain Calcification

Abstract

Intracerebral calcium deposition, classified into primary familial brain calcification (PFBC) and secondary brain calcification, occurs within the brain parenchyma and vasculature. PFBC manifests with progressive motor decline, dysarthria, and cognitive impairment, with limited treatment options available. Recent research has suggested a link between dysfunction of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and PFBC, with certain genetic variants potentially affecting neurovascular unit (NVU) function, thereby contributing to BBB integrity disruption and brain calcification. Cell junctions play an indispensable role in maintaining the function of NVUs. The pathogenic mechanisms of PFBC‐causative genes, such as PDGFRB, PDGFB, MYORG, and JAM2, involve NVU disruption. Cell junctions, such as tight junctions, gap junctions, adherens junctions, desmosomes, hemidesmosomes, and focal adhesions, are vital for cell–cell and cell–extracellular matrix connections, maintaining barrier function, cell adhesion, and facilitating ion and metabolite exchange. Several recent studies have highlighted the role of mutations in genes encoding cell junction proteins in the onset and progression of brain calcification and its related phenotypes. This emerging body of research offers a unique perspective for investigating the underlying mechanisms driving brain calcification. In this review, we conducted an examination of the literature reporting on genetic variants in cell junction proteins associated with brain calcification to delineate potential molecular pathways and investigate genotype–phenotype correlations. This approach not only reinforces the rationale for molecular subtyping of brain calcification but also lays the groundwork for the discovery of novel causative genes involved in pathogenesis. © 2024 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.