99 Chinese ASS1 carriers: Genetics, metabolism, and citrulline levels

Citrullinemia type I is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in the ASS1 gene, whereas ASS1 mutation carriers typically have a mutation in only one allele. While carriers are usually asymptomatic, they often show mildly elevated plasma citrulline levels. This study aims to investigate the relationship between the genetic background of ASS1 carriers and plasma citrulline levels, as well as the potential mechanisms behind the elevation. The study analyzed 99 ASS1 mutation carriers identified through neonatal screening. Clinical and genetic data were collected, including plasma citrulline levels at initial and follow-up screenings. This is the first large-scale analysis of the relationship between ASS1 mutations and plasma citrulline levels in carriers. Twenty-eight distinct variants were identified, with c.1087C > T (p.R363W) being the most common. Plasma citrulline levels in carriers were elevated, showing a rising then falling pattern over first six months, with a peak of 65.84 µmol/L during re-screening. Levels gradually declined thereafter and stabilized around 49.92 μmol/L, but consistently remained above the normal reference range. A citrulline threshold of 62.04 µmol/L effectively differentiated ASS1 carriers from Citrullinemia type I patients (AUC = 0.984). Elevated plasma citrulline levels are often seen in mutations affecting the monomer–monomer interface, though other mechanisms may be involved. This study identified 62.04 µmol/L as a reference threshold at the time of newborn screening to distinguish ASS1 carriers from Citrullinemia type I patients, observed a dynamic pattern of citrulline levels over the first six months in carriers, and suggested a potential role for dominant-negative effects in the underlying mechanism.