Common mutation analysis of GJB2 and GJB6 genes in affected families with autosomal recessive non-syndromic hearing loss from Iran: simultaneous detection of two common mutations (35delG/del(GJB6-D13S1830)) in the DFNB1-related deafness

OBJECTIVE: DFNB1 locus has been reported as a major cause of autosomal recessive non-syndromic hearing loss (ARNSHL) worldwide. 35delG and del(GJB6-D13S1830) are thought to be two common mutations in this locus among Caucasians. The aim of this study is to determine the significance of these two mutations in aetiology of ARNSHL in Iran. METHODS: One hundred and thirty-three unrelated patients with ARNSHL were tested by using multiplex allele-specific PCR assay after validation by positive control samples. RESULTS: The frequency of 35delG was about 18.5%, however, del(GJB6-D13S1830) was not found in the studied patients. Parental consanguinity was observed in 50% of 35delG-mutated families. CONCLUSIONS: Our results support founder effect regarding these mutations.