Homozygous nonsense mutation Trp28X in the LHB gene causes male hypogonadism.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate a novel mutation in the luteinizing hormone beta-subunit (LHB) gene in one male patient with hypogonadism due to selective luteinizing hormone (LH) deficiency. Sanger sequencing of one 28-year-old man born to consanguineous parents was performed. Treatment with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) (2000IU, twice a week) was initiated for 3months, followed by 5000IU weekly to date. We identified a novel c.84G>A[p.W28X] nonsense LHB mutation. The W28X mutation produces a truncated LHB peptide of seven amino acids, which prevents the synthesis of intact LH. After 40days of treatment with hCG, the patient exhibited a few spermatozoa in the semen. Treated for 6months, the patient exhibited normal seminal parameters. We identified a novel mutation in the LHB gene in a male patient with hypogonadism and provided evidence that LHB nonsense mutation can cause selective LH deficiency. We reconfirmed hCG treatment may restore male fertility due to LHB mutation.