Identification of two novel mutations in SLC29A3 encoding an equilibrative nucleoside transporter (hENT3) in two distinct Syrian families with H syndrome: expression studies of SLC29A3 (hENT3) in human skin.

BACKGROUND

H syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder which involves the skin and other systemic organs and is caused by mutations in the SLC29A3 gene.

OBJECTIVES

To disclose the molecular basis of H syndrome in two Syrian families, and to determine the localization of hENT3 in human skin.

METHODS

DNA from two Syrian families with H syndrome was analyzed through direct sequencing, and the expression of hENT3 in normal human skin was investigated by in situ hybridization and immunostaining.

RESULTS

We identified two novel mutations in the SLC29A3 gene: a homozygous splice site mutation IVS1+2T>G predicted to cause a splicing error, and a homozygous missense mutation c.1157G>A (p.R386Q) which substituted highly conserved amino acid residue in a transmembrane domain of hENT3. Furthermore, we demonstrate that hENT3 is expressed in histiocytes as well as in endothelium of blood and lymphatic vessels in normal human skin.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results further enhance the mutation spectrum of the SLC29A3 gene for this rare genetic disorder, and also suggest potential pathomechanisms for the skin lesions resulting from SLC29A3 mutations.