Genetic screening of EIF2B genes reveals mutation spectrum and predicted prevalence of vanishing white matter disease in Chinese population

Abstract

Background

Vanishing White Matter disease (VWM) is a rare autosomal recessive leukoencephalopathy caused by biallelic variants in any of the five subunits of eukaryotic initiation factor 2B (EIF2B1–5), with varied clinical manifestations, including progressive neurological deterioration, cerebellar ataxia, and white matter abnormalities on MRI. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for medical interventions and genetic counseling.

Methods

We aimed to characterize the prevalence and spectrum of pathogenic variants of VWM in the Chinese population through Genetic screening for VWM mutations in 36,820 Chinese newborns from 31 hospitals across 14 provinces using next-generation sequencing. Pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants were identified and classified according to ACMG guidelines. Prevalence rates and variant spectra were analyzed.

Results

Among screened newborns, 114 carriers with 36 distinct pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants were identified, including 18 novel variants. The overall carrier frequency was 1 in 323. EIF2B2 showed the highest carrier frequency (1 in 498), with c.254 T > A/p.Val85Glu being a hotspot variant (61/74 carriers, 82.4%). The estimated prevalence rate of VWM in China was 1.12/1,000,000.

Conclusions

This large-scale screening provides valuable insights into the genetic landscape of VWM in the Chinese population, contributing to improved genetic counseling, early diagnosis, and management strategies. These findings contribute to enhancing the understanding and management of VWM in China.