Analysis of complex structural variants in the DMD gene in one family

This work describes a family with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) with a rare case of a symptomatic pregnant woman. The main aim was to perform prenatal molecular diagnosis to provide genetic counseling. The secondary aim was to suggest the molecular mechanisms causing the complex structural variant (cxSV) identified. To accomplish this, we used a multi-technique algorithm including segregation analysis, Multiplex Ligation-dependent Probe Amplification, PCR, X-chromosome inactivation studies, microarrays, whole genome sequencing and bioinformatics. We identified a duplication of exons 38–43 in the DMD gene in all affected and obligate carrier members, proving that this was the DMD-causing mutation. We also observed a skewed X-chromosome inactivation in the symptomatic woman that explained her symptomatology. In addition, we identified a cxSV (duplication of exons 38–43 and deletion of exons 45–54) in the affected boy. The molecular characterization and bioinformatic analyses of the breakpoint junctions allowed us to identify Double Strand Breaks stimulator motifs and suggested the replication-dependent Fork Stalling and Template Switching as the most probable mechanisms leading to the duplication. In addition, the de novo deletion might have been the result of a germline inter-chromosome non-allelic recombination involving the Non-Homologous End Joining mechanism. In conclusion, the diagnostic strategy used allowed us to provide accurate molecular diagnosis and genetic counseling. In addition, the familial molecular diagnosis together with the in-depth characterization of the cxSV helped to determine the chronology of the molecular events, and propose and understand the molecular mechanisms involved in the generation of this complex rearrangement.