Molecular genetic evaluation of NLRP3, MVK and TNFRSF1A associated periodic fever syndromes.

Abstract

Periodic fever syndromes (PFSs) are a family of clinical disorders, which are characterized by recurrent episodes of fever in the absence of microbial, autoimmune or malign conditions. Most common types of PFSs are associated with four genes: MEFV, MVK, TNFRSF1A and NLRP3. This paper aims to add new data to the genotype-phenotype association of MVK-, TNFRSF-1A- and NLRP3-associated PFSs. A total number of 211 patients were evaluated. Two different approaches were used for the molecular genetic evaluation of MVK-, TNFRSF-1A- and NLRP3-associated PFSs. For the first 147 patients, Sanger sequence analysis of selected exons of MVK, TNFRSF1A and NLRP3 genes was done. For subsequent 64 patients, targeted NGS panel analysis, covering all exons of MVK, TNFRSF1A and NLRP3 genes, was used. A total number of 48 variants were detected. The "variant detection rate in index patients" was higher in the NGS group than Sanger sequencing group (19% vs. 15,1%). For the variant positive patients, a detailed genotype-phenotype table was built. In PFSs, lack of correlation exists between genotype and phenotype in the general population and even within the families. In some cases, mutations behave differently and yield unexpected phenotypes. In this study, we discussed the clinical effects of eight different variants we have detected in the MVK, TNFRSF1A and NLRP3 genes. Four of them were previously identified in patients with PFS. The remaining four were not reported in patients with PFS. Thus, we had to interpret their clinical effects by analysing their frequencies and in silico analysis predictions. We suggest that new studies are needed to evaluate the effects of these variants more clearly. To be able to demonstrate a clearer genotype-phenotype relationship, all PFS-related genes should be analysed together and the possibility of polygenic inheritance should be considered.