PHEX Research Articles

A Case of X-Linked Hypophosphatemia: Exploring the Burden in a Single Family and the Significance of a Multidisciplinary Approach

A 46-year-old lady was diagnosed clinically with X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) with a rare pathogenic variant detected using exome sequencing. Phosphate-regulating endopeptidase homologous X linked (PHEX) is normally expressed in osteoblasts and osteocytes, and senses phosphate regulation. More than 1000 PHEX variants have been detected to date, which are caused by missense, nonsense, and frameshift mutations in addition to splice variants and copy number changes. The aberration in the PHEX gene leads to the upregulation of fibroblastic growth factor 23 (FGF23), which leads to defects in phosphate metabolism. This results in impaired bone growth and mineralization, short and disproportionate stature, leg bowing, musculoskeletal pain, spontaneous dental abscesses, rickets, and osteomalacia in XLH patients. The spectrum of manifestations differs between pediatric and adult patients. In our case study, two of the patient’s children started showing symptoms at a younger age, unlike their mother. Timely diagnosis and the start of treatment would help in their better management and improved quality of life.

De Novo Large Deletions in the PHEX Gene Caused X-Linked Hypophosphataemic Rickets in Two Italian Female Infants Successfully Treated with Burosumab.

Pathogenic variants in the PHEX gene cause rare and severe X-linked dominant hypophosphataemia (XLH), a form of heritable hypophosphatemic rickets (HR) characterized by renal phosphate wasting and elevated fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) levels. Burosumab, the approved human monoclonal anti-FGF23 antibody, is the treatment of choice for XLH. The genetic and phenotypic heterogeneity of HR often delays XLH diagnoses, with critical effects on disease course and therapy. We herein report the clinical and genetic features of two Italian female infants with sporadic HR who successfully responded to burosumab. Their diagnoses were based on clinical and laboratory findings and physical examinations. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) of the genes associated with inherited HR and multiple ligation probe amplification (MLPA) analysis of the PHEX and FGF23 genes were performed. While a conventional analysis of the NGS data did not reveal pathogenic or likely pathogenic small nucleotide variants (SNVs) in the known HR-related genes, a quantitative analysis identified two different heterozygous de novo large intragenic deletions in PHEX, and this was confirmed by MLPA. Our molecular data indicated that deletions in the PHEX gene can be the cause of a significant fraction of XLH; hence, their presence should be evaluated in SNV-negative female patients. Our patients successfully responded to burosumab, demonstrating the efficacy of this drug in the treatment of XLH. In conclusion, the execution of a phenotype-oriented genetic test, guided by known types of variants, including the rarest ones, was crucial to reach the definitive diagnoses and ensure our patients of long-term therapy administration.

Blocking FGF23 signaling improves the growth plate of mice with X-linked hypophosphatemia.

Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is a phosphaturic hormone. X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) is the most prevalent inherited phosphate wasting disorder due to mutations in the PHEX gene, which cause elevated circulating FGF23 levels. Clinically, it is characterized by growth impairment and defective mineralization of bones and teeth. Treatment of XLH is challenging. Since 2018, neutralizing antibodies against FGF23 have dramatically improved the therapy of XLH patients, although not all patients fully respond to the treatment, and it is very costly. C-terminal fragments of FGF23 have recently emerged as blockers of intact FGF23 signaling. Here, we analyzed the effect on growth and bone of a short 26 residues long C-terminal FGF23 (cFGF23) fragment and two N-acetylated and C-amidated cFGF23 peptides using young XLH mice (Phex C733RMhda mice). Although no major changes in blood parameters were observed after 7 days of treatment with these peptides, bone length and growth plate structure improved. The modified peptides accelerated the growth rate probably by improving growth plate structure and dynamics. The processes of chondrocyte proliferation, death, hypertrophy, and the cartilaginous composition in the growth plate were partially improved in young treated XLH mice. In conclusion, these findings contribute to understand the role of FGF23 signaling in growth plate metabolism and show that this may occur despite continuous hypophosphatemia.

#5571 THERAPY WITH BUROSUMAB IN ADULT PATIENTS WITH X-LINKED HYPOPHOSPHATEMIA: A YEAR OF FOLLOW-UP

Abstract Background and Aims X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets (XLH) is a genetic disorder secondary to the mutation of the PHEX gene that results in increased circulating levels of FGF23. Increased FGF23 causes hypophosphatemia secondary to renal phosphate loss. Clinically, the disease is characterized by reduced growth, bone alterations, weakness, chronic pain and reduced mobility. From a biochemical point of view, patients have hypophosphatemia, increased values of alkaline phosphatase, increased fraction excretion of phosphate (FEP). Recently, therapy with Burosumab, a monoclonal antibody against FGF23, has been introduced. Burosumab by reducing the receptor availability of circulating FGF23 reduces its activity. This leads to a normalization of serum phosphate and in paediatric patients an improvement of the clinical phenotype. In adult patients, the effectiveness of therapy in improving the clinical outcome and quality of life is being investigated. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the efficacy in improving the biochemical, bone and clinical picture of adult patients with XLH in therapy with Burosumab for one year. Method We enrolled patients with XLH naive for Burosumab therapy. In all we evaluated the biochemical aspects (phospahatemia, alkaline phosphatase, FEP), bone Radiographic Global Impression of Change score and clinical improvements (six-minute walk test, UP and go timed test, WOMAC Index) pre therapy and after a year of therapy. Burosumab was administered monthly at a dose of 1 mg/Kg. Results We enrolled 5 patients (45 ± 10 year old, weight 60 ± 10 Kg, Burosumab dose 60 ±10 mg) with genetic diagnosis of XLH. The comparison between pre therapy and post-one-year therapy showed in all patients: increase in average phosphatemia (pre 1.9± 0.5 mg/dl vs post 3.4 ±0.6 mg/dl p = 0.003), reduction in FEP (pre 50 ±15% vs 20 ±10% p = 0.004), reduction of UP and go timed test (pre 20± 5 sec vs post 11 ±5 sec p = 0.005) increase of the distance in the six minutes’ walk test (pre 150 ± 30 meters vs post 250 ± 50 meters p = 0.01), improvement of the WOMAC test (pre 15± 3 vs post 5± 2; p = 0.008) and reduction of the Radiographic Global Impression of Change score (pre -2 ±0.5 and post 2± 0.4; p = 0.001). The serum value of alkaline phosphate was high and it did not change with the Burosumab therapy (pre 200±50 UI/L vs post 220±60 UI/L; p: n.s. n.v. 33–98 UI/L). No patients had significant complications during the first year of treatment. Conclusion The therapy with Burosumab was well tolerated by patients. It resulted in a marked improvement in the biochemical picture associated with a better quality of life identified by increased strength (improved walk test and UP and go timed test) reduction of pain (best WOMAC test) and bone damage score. In conclusion, Burosumab may be a good and safe therapy option for adults’ patients with XLH.

Co-occurrence of Spondyloepiphyseal Dysplasia and X-Linked Hypophosphatemia in a Three-Generation Chinese Family.

Rare genetic skeletal disorders (GSDs) remain the major problem in orthopedics and result in significant morbidity in patients, but the causes are highly diverse. Precise molecular diagnosis will benefit management and genetic counseling. This study aims to share the diagnostic experience on a three-generation Chinese family with co-occurrence of spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia (SED) and X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH), and evaluate the therapeutic effects of two third-generation siblings. The proband, his younger brother, and mother presented with short stature, skeletal problems, and hypophosphatemia. His father, paternal grandfather, and aunt also manifested short stature and skeletal deformities. Whole exome sequencing (WES) of proband-brother-parents initially only found the proband and his younger brother had a pathogenic c.2833G>A(p.G945S) variant in the COL2A1 gene inherited from their father. Re-analysis of WES uncovered the proband and his younger brother also harbored a pathogenic ex.12 del variant in the PHEX gene transmitted from their mother. Sanger sequencing, agarose gel electrophoresis, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction proved these results. The proband and his younger brother were confirmed to have a paternally inherited SED and a maternally inherited XLH. During a 2.8-year follow-up, these two siblings remained short stature and hypophosphatemia, but their radiographic signs and serum bone alkaline phosphatase levels were improved with treatment of oral phosphate and calcitriol. Our study presents the first report of co-occurrence of SED and XLH, shows the possibility that two different rare GSDs co-exist in a single patient, and alerts clinicians and geneticists to be cautious about this condition. Our study also suggests that next-generation sequencing has limit in detecting exon-level large deletions.

Asia-Pacific Consensus Recommendations on X-Linked Hypophosphatemia: Diagnosis, Multidisciplinary Management, and Transition From Pediatric to Adult Care.

X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) is a rare, inherited, multisystem disorder characterized by hypophosphatemia that occurs secondary to renal phosphate wasting. Mutations in PHEX gene (located at Xp22.1) in XLH alter bone mineral metabolism, resulting in diverse skeletal, dental, and other extraskeletal abnormalities that become evident in early childhood and persist into adolescence and adult life. XLH impacts physical function, mobility, and quality of life, and is associated with substantial socioeconomic burden and health care resource utilization. As the burden of illness varies with age, an appropriate transition of care from childhood and adolescence to adulthood is necessary to meet growth-related changes and minimize long-term sequelae of the condition. Previous XLH guidelines that encompassed transition of care have focused on Western experience. Regional differences in resource availability warrant tailoring of recommendations to the Asia-Pacific (APAC) context. Hence, a core expert panel of 15 pediatric and adult endocrinologists from nine countries/regions across APAC convened to formulate evidence-based recommendations for optimizing XLH care. A comprehensive literature search on PubMed using MeSH and free-text terms relevant to predetermined clinical questions on diagnosis, multidisciplinary management, and transition of care of XLH revealed 2171 abstracts. The abstracts were reviewed independently by two authors to shortlist a final of 164 articles. A total of 92 full-text articles were finally selected for data extraction and drafting the consensus statements. Sixteen guiding statements were developed based on review of evidence and real-world clinical experience. The GRADE criteria were used to appraise the quality of evidence supporting the statements. Subsequently, a Delphi technique was utilized to rate the agreement on statements; 38 XLH experts (15 core, 20 additional, 3 international) from 15 countries/regions (12 APAC, 3 EU) participated in the Delphi voting to further refine the statements. Statements 1-3 cover the screening and diagnosis of pediatric and adult XLH; we have defined the clinical, imaging, biochemical, and genetic criteria and raised red flags for the presumptive and confirmatory diagnosis of XLH. Statements 4-12 tackle elements of multidisciplinary management in XLH such as therapeutic goals and options, composition of the multidisciplinary team, follow-up assessments, required monitoring schedules, and the role of telemedicine. Treatment with active vitamin D, oral phosphate, and burosumab is discussed in terms of applicability to APAC settings. We also expound on multidisciplinary care for different age groups (children, adolescents, adults) and pregnant or lactating women. Statements 13-15 address facets of the transition from pediatric to adult care: targets and timelines, roles and responsibilities of stakeholders, and process flow. We explain the use of validated questionnaires, desirable characteristics of a transition care clinic, and important components of a transfer letter. Lastly, strategies to improve XLH education to the medical community are also elaborated in statement 16. Overall, optimized care for XLH patients requires prompt diagnosis, timely multidisciplinary care, and a seamless transfer of care through the coordinated effort of pediatric and adult health care providers, nurse practitioners, parents or caregivers, and patients. To achieve this end, we provide specific guidance for clinical practice in APAC settings. © 2023 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

X-Linked Hypophosphatemia at the European Society of Pediatric Endocrinology Meeting 2022

AbstractRickets, a growth plate disorder, is classified into calcipenic and phosphopenic types based on the etiology. Phosphopenic rickets can be further classified into fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) mediated and non-FGF23 mediated. FGF-23 has a phosphaturic effect which results in hypophosphatemia and, therefore, the accumulation of hypertrophied chondrocytes, leading to rachitic changes in the bones. One of the most common causes of inherited hypophosphatemic rickets is X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH), mainly due to a mutation in the PHEX gene that ends in the extended release of FGF-23. During the 60th annual meeting of the European Society for Pediatric Endocrinology, held in Rome between September 15 and 19, 2022, approximately 15 presentations were made either as free communication or poster. In addition, there was a dedicated satellite symposium focusing on XLH. This article has been prepared mainly to share knowledge and updates discussed during the meeting about hypophosphatemic rickets, as we feel this disease is still to be focused on in the MENA region, since there are some gaps in the recognition and management of FGF23 hypophosphatemic rickets and osteomalacia.

X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets with advanced bone age treated with aromatase inhibitor.

We present an adolescent with X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets (XLH) with bone age advancement and its response to aromatase inhibitors (AIs). A male with XLH, confirmed with a deletion on the PHEX gene, received regular treatment since the first year of life with average growth velocity and height. He had bone age compatible with chronological age until 13 when he had a bone age advancement and a decrease in the predicted final height thought to be due to initiation of oral isotretinoin, which has been previously reported. Then, anastrozole was initiated and maintained concomitant to the rickets treatment for 2 years with bone age stabilization. He had no adverse effects or worsening of bone health markers. As a result, he maintained his height gain and improved his final height Z score compared with the predicted final height at initiating anastrozole. In conclusion, although AIs was a reasonable strategy to stabilize bone age and minimize height impairment, careful monitoring is mandatory to understand its benefits and effects on XLH patients. Although X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets patients have normal puberty, they can be affected by metabolic and environmental factors that may advance their bone age and impair the predicted final height, similar to the general population. Isotretinoin may accelerate skeletal maturation during puberty in an adolescent with X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets. Aromatase inhibitors showed to be a reasonable strategy to stabilize bone age and minimize height impairment in an adolescent with X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets.

Mechanical loading modulates phosphate related genes in rat bone.

Mechanical loading determines bone mass and bone structure, which involves many biochemical signal molecules. Of these molecules, Mepe and Fgf23 are involved in bone mineralization and phosphate homeostasis. Thus, we aimed to explore whether mechanical loading of bone affects factors of phosphate homeostasis. We studied the effect of mechanical loading of bone on the expression of Fgf23, Mepe, Dmp1, Phex, Cyp27b1, and Vdr. Twelve-week old female rats received a 4-point bending load on the right tibia, whereas control rats were not loaded. RT-qPCR was performed on tibia mRNA at 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8 hours after mechanical loading for detection of Mepe, Dmp1, Fgf23, Phex, Cyp27b1, and Vdr. Immunohistochemistry was performed to visualise FGF23 protein in tibiae. Serum FGF23, phosphate and calcium levels were measured in all rats. Four-point bending resulted in a reduction of tibia Fgf23 gene expression by 64% (p = 0.002) and a reduction of serum FGF23 by 30% (p<0.001), six hours after loading. Eight hours after loading, Dmp1 and Mepe gene expression increased by 151% (p = 0.007) and 100% (p = 0.007). Mechanical loading did not change Phex, Cyp27b1, and Vdr gene expression at any time-point. We conclude that mechanical loading appears to provoke both a paracrine as well as an endocrine response in bone by modulating factors that regulate bone mineralization and phosphate homeostasis.

Insights into the Molecular and Hormonal Regulation of Complications of X-Linked Hypophosphatemia

X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) is characterized by mutations in the PHEX gene, leading to elevated serum levels of FGF23, decreased production of 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25D), and hypophosphatemia. Those affected with XLH manifest impaired growth and skeletal and dentoalveolar mineralization as well as increased mineralization of the tendon–bone attachment site (enthesopathy), all of which lead to decreased quality of life. Many molecular and murine studies have detailed the role of mineral ions and hormones in regulating complications of XLH, including how they modulate growth and growth plate maturation, bone mineralization and structure, osteocyte-mediated mineral matrix resorption and canalicular organization, and enthesopathy development. While these studies have provided insight into the molecular underpinnings of these skeletal processes, current therapies available for XLH do not fully prevent or treat these complications. Therefore, further investigations are needed to determine the molecular pathophysiology underlying the complications of XLH.

Single-cell RNA sequencing identifies Fgf23-expressing osteocytes in response to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 treatment.

Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), a hormone, mainly produced by osteocytes, regulates phosphate and vitamin D metabolism. By contrast, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, the active form of vitamin D, has been shown to enhance FGF23 production. While it is likely that osteocytes are heterogenous in terms of gene expression profiles, specific subpopulations of Fgf23-expressing osteocytes have not been identified. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology can characterize the transcriptome of an individual cell. Recently, scRNA-seq has been used for bone tissue analysis. However, owing to technical difficulties associated with isolation of osteocytes, studies using scRNA-seq analysis to characterize FGF23-producing osteocytes are lacking. In this study, we characterized osteocytes secreting FGF23 from murine femurs in response to calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3) using scRNA-seq. We first detected Dmp1, Mepe, and Phex expression in murine osteocytes by in situ hybridization and used these as marker genes of osteocytes. After decalcification, enzyme digestion, and removal of CD45+ cells, femoral bone cells were subjected to scRNA-seq. We identified cell clusters containing osteocytes using marker gene expression. While Fgf23 expression was observed in some osteocytes isolated from femurs of calcitriol-injected mice, no Fgf23 expression was detected in untreated mice. In addition, the expression of several genes which are known to be changed after 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 treatment such as Ccnd2, Fn1, Igfbp7, Pdgfa, and Timp1 was also affected by calcitriol treatment in Fgf23-expressing osteocytes, but not in those lacking Fgf23 expression, even after calcitriol administration. Furthermore, box-and-whisker plots indicated that Fgf23 expression was observed in osteocytes with higher expression levels of the Fam20c, Dmp1, and Phex genes, whose inactivating mutations have been shown to cause FGF23-related hypophosphatemic diseases. These results indicate that osteocytes are heterogeneous with respect to their responsiveness to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, and sensitivity to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 is one of the characteristics of osteocytes with Fgf23 expression. It is likely that there is a subpopulation of osteocytes expressing several genes, including Fgf23, involved in phosphate metabolism.

P251: XLH molecular diagnoses and the PHEX gene variant landscape: Sponsored hypophosphatemia gene panel testing findings from 2019 vs 2022

P251: XLH molecular diagnoses and the PHEX gene variant landscape: Sponsored hypophosphatemia gene panel testing findings from 2019 vs 2022

The Variant p.Ala84Pro Is Causative of X-Linked Hypophosphatemic Rickets: Possible Relationship with Burosumab Swinging Response in Adults

Loss of function mutations in the PHEX gene could determine X-linked dominant hypophosphatemia. This is the most common form of genetic rickets. It is characterized by renal phosphate wasting determining an increase in fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23), growth retard, bone deformities and musculoskeletal manifestations. In recent decades, analysis of the PHEX gene has revealed numerous different mutations. However, no clear genotype-phenotype correlations have been reported in patients with hypophosphatemic rickets (XLH). We report two cases of a 28-year-old-male (patient 1) and a 19-year-old male (patient 2) affected by XLH initially treated with phosphate and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin-D admitted to the Endocrinology unit because of the persistence of muscle weakness, bone pain and fatigue. After phosphate withdrawal, both patients started therapy with burosumab and symptoms ameliorated in three months. However, patient 1's biochemical parameters did not improve as expected so we decided to investigate his genetic asset. We herein describe a possible clinical implication for the missense "de novo" mutation, c.250G>C (p.Ala84Pro) in the PHEX gene, reported in the PHEX database and classified as a variant of uncertain significance (VUS). The clinical implication of this mutation on disease burden and quality of life in adults is still under investigation.

Whole exome sequencing identifies two novel variants in PHEX and DMP1 in Malaysian children with hypophosphatemic rickets

Hypophosphatemic rickets (HR) is a genetic disease of phosphate wasting that is characterized by defective bone mineralization. The most common cause of the disease is mutations in the phosphate regulating gene with homologies to endopeptidases on the X chromosome (PHEX) gene. The aims of this study were to identify the gene variants responsible for HR in three cases of Malaysian origin from three independent families and to describe their clinical, biochemical, and radiological features. Whole exome sequencing (WES) was performed on all patients and their parents, followed by Sanger sequencing validation. Bioinformatics tools were used to provide supporting evidence for pathogenicity of variants. To confirm that a mutation is de novo, paternity test was carried out. High resolution melting curve analysis was performed to assess the allele frequency in normal controls for mutations that were found in the patients. The patients showed typical characteristics of HR including lower limb deformity, hypophosphatemia, and elevated alkaline phosphatase. WES revealed two variants in the PHEX gene and one variant in the dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1) gene. Two of the three variants were novel, including c.1946_1954del (p.Gly649_Arg651del) in PHEX and c.54 + 1G > A in DMP1. Our data suggests that the novel p.Gly649_Arg651del variant is likely pathogenic for HR disease. This study extends the variant spectrum of the PHEX and DMP1 genes. Our findings indicate that WES is an advantageous approach for diagnosis of genetic diseases which are heterogeneous.

New treatments for rare bone diseases: hypophosphatemic rickets/osteomalacia.

Phosphorus is one of the most abundant minerals in the human body; it is required to maintain bone integrity and mineralization, in addition to other biological processes. Phosphorus is regulated by parathyroid hormone, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3], and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23) in a complex set of processes that occur in the gut, skeleton, and kidneys. Different molecular mechanisms - overproduction of FGF-23 by tumors responsible for oncogenic osteomalacia, generation of an FGF-23 mutant that is resistant to cleavage by enzymes, and impaired FGF-23 degradation due to a reduction in or loss of the PHEX gene - can lead to FGF-23-stimulating activity and the consequent waste of urinary phosphate and low levels of 1,25(OH)2D3. Conventional treatment consists of multiple daily doses of oral phosphate salts and vitamin D analogs, which may improve radiographic rickets but do not normalize growth. Complications of the conventional long-term treatment consist of hypercalcemia, hypercalciuria, nephrolithiasis, nephrocalcinosis, impaired renal function, and potentially chronic kidney disease. Recently, burosumab, an antibody against FGF-23, was approved as a novel therapy for children and adults with X-linked hypophosphatemia and patients with tumor-induced osteomalacia. Burosumab showed good performance in different trials in children and adults. It increased and sustained the serum phosphorus levels, decreased the rickets severity and pain scores, and improved mineralization. It offers a new perspective on the treatment of chronic and disabling diseases.

OR13-3 Hypophosphatemia Gene Panel Sponsored Program: A High Yield of Molecular Diagnoses from Clinically Confirmed XLH and Suspected Genetic Hypophosphatemia

Abstract Introduction X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH), a dominant disorder caused by disease-associated variants in the PHEX gene, affects males and females of all ages. Rickets and osteomalacia may be present along with short stature, lower limb deformity, muscle pain and/or weakness/fatigue, bone pain, fractures and poor fracture healing, joint pain/stiffness, hearing difficulty, enthesopathy, osteoarthritis, and dental abscesses. Patients with XLH have below-normal serum phosphate and elevated serum FGF23. The Hypophosphatemia Gene Panel Sponsored Program provides a no-charge genetic test to patients to confirm a clinical XLH diagnosis or to aid in the diagnosis of suspected genetic hypophosphatemia. Methods Individuals aged ≥6 months with either a clinical XLH diagnosis or suspicion of genetic hypophosphatemia, as evidenced by 2 or more clinical signs/ symptoms, were eligible for testing. The next generation sequencing panel includes 17 genes: ALPL, CLCN5, CTNS, ​​​​CYP2R1, CYP27B1, DMP1, ENPP1, FAH, FAM20C, FGF23, FGFR1, GNAS, OCRL, PHEX, SLC34A1, SLC34A3, and VDR. Copy number variant (CNV) detection was also performed. Variants were interpreted according to the joint consensus from the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics and the Association for Molecular Pathology using Invitae's proprietary point-based scoring system, Sherloc. In all analyses, data were summarized using descriptive statistics. Results One thousand six hundred sixty-eight unrelated individuals, ages 6 months to 87 years (mean = 27.4±21.2 years, median = 22.5 years), were tested between 27 February 2019 and 23 October 2021. The majority of individuals were female (66.6%) and of self-reported White ancestry (54.9%). Eight hundred seventy-nine (52.7.%) unrelated individuals had a PHEX variant: 825 (93.9%) were either pathogenic or likely pathogenic (P/LP) and 54 (6.1%) were variants of uncertain significance (VUS). Of the 789 (47.3%) cases where no PHEX P/LP or VUS was found, 116 (14.7%) had molecular diagnoses associated with other genes/disorders: ALPL (71 with 1 variant, 12 with 2 variants), FGF23 (8), CYP27B1 (14), SLC34A3 (5), and two or fewer molecular diagnoses for DMP, CTNS, ENPP1, and OCRL. Four hundred and twenty-eight unique P/LP PHEX variants were detected: 136 deletions, duplications or insertions ​(&amp;lt;100 bp)​; 41 copy number variants ​(&amp;gt;100 bp); 74 splice-site variants; 177 single nucleotide variants. Additional family member testing/clinical information/observation of variants resulted in 25 VUS being reclassified to P/LP (impacting 50 individuals), highlighting the value of cascade family testing/clinical information to resolve VUS. Notably, the frequency of PHEX VUS has decreased from 8.9% in 2019 (41 weeks) to 4.4% in 2021 (44 weeks). Conclusions The frequency of any PHEX variant classified as VUS has decreased more than two-fold since 2019. RNA analyses to resolve VUS may further improve molecular diagnostic yield. Program results provide a high molecular diagnostic yield for XLH and other genetic hypophosphatemia disorders and new insight into XLH-associated PHEX variants. Presentation: Sunday, June 12, 2022 11:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.

PSAT228 Hereditary Hypophosphatemic Rickets: Management in Adults

Abstract Introduction Hereditary Hypophosphatemic Rickets (HHR) is a group of rare inherited disorders consisting of X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets (XLHR, prevalence 1 in 20,000 births), autosomal dominant hypophosphatemic rickets (ADHR), and autosomal recessive hypophosphatemic rickets (ARHR). XLHR is caused by loss of function mutation of the PHEX gene, ARHR is caused by loss of function mutation of the DMP1/ENPP1 gene and ADHR is caused by activating point mutations in FGF23. These mutations result in renal phosphate wasting, hypophosphatemia, and impaired bone mineralization. It presents in childhood as skeletal deformities, abnormal gait, skeletal pain, dental abnormalities, and stunted growth. Adults have osteomalacia-related pain, fractures, and arthritis. The diagnosis is made by findings consistent with rickets and normal serum calcium, normal 25-hydroxy vitamin D, low-normal 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D, elevated alkaline phosphatase activity, and low phosphate levels. Urine studies show low urine calcium and decreased tubular maximum reabsorption of phosphate, confirming renal wasting of phosphate. The goal of treatment in adults is to reduce pain, prevent fractures, enhance mobility, and decrease osteomalacia. Phosphate and vitamin D supplementations are used with close monitoring as it is associated with severe adverse events. It can cause hypercalcemia leading to nephrocalcinosis, nephrolithiasis, chronic kidney disease, and hyperparathyroidism. There is no evidence that the treatment affects long-term skeletal complications. Burosumab, a monoclonal antibody that inhibits FGF23, is approved for the treatment of XLHR. No studies are available about the use of Burosumab in ADHR or ARHR. Case Presentation A 18-year-old male with past medical history of hypophosphatemic rickets with multiple fractures, on oral phosphate tablets and calcitriol, presented to the Endocrinology clinic to establish care. He had been following Pediatric Endocrinology in the past. His blood work showed normal calcium, low phosphate of 1.6 mg/dl (normal: 2.5-4.5 mg/dl), vitamin D 25 hydroxy level of 26 ng/ml (normal: 20-100 ng/ml), vitamin D 1,25-dihydroxy level of 25 pg/ml (normal: 30-80 pg/ml), intact parathyroid hormone level of 549 pg/ml (normal: 15-65 pg/ml), and alkaline phosphatase of 438 U/l (normal: 40-150 U/l). Urine calcium was low and urine phosphorus was elevated with phosphate/creatinine ratio more than 2000 (normal: 60-962), consistent with renal phosphate wasting. Genetic testing in the past was negative for PHEX gene mutation, so he was not a candidate for Burosumab. Conclusion There is limited knowledge about Hereditary Hypophosphatemic Rickets, especially ADHR and ARHR due to limited cases (less than 100 cases reported so far). The current standard of treatment of HHR is sub-optimal and associated with adverse effects. Burosumab has not been tested in ADHR or ARHR, so it is unclear if it will be beneficial in this subgroup. Presentation: Saturday, June 11, 2022 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., Sunday, June 12, 2022 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

MiR-539-3p impairs osteogenesis by suppressing Wnt interaction with LRP-6 co-receptor and subsequent inhibition of Akap-3 signaling pathway.

X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH), an inheritable form of rickets is caused due to mutation in Phex gene. Several factors are linked to the disease’s aetiology, including non-coding RNA molecules (miRNAs), which are key post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression and play a significant role in osteoblast functions. MicroRNAs sequence analysis showed differentially regulated miRNAs in phex silenced osteoblast cells. In this article, we report miR-539-3p, an unidentified novel miRNA, in the functional regulation of osteoblast. MiR-539-3p overexpression impaired osteoblast differentiation. Target prediction algorithm and experimental confirmation by luciferase 3’ UTR reporter assay identified LRP-6 as a direct target of miR-539-3p. Over expression of miR-539-3p in osteoblasts down regulated Wnt/beta catenin signaling components and deteriorated trabecular microarchitecture leading to decreased bone formation in ovariectomized (Ovx) mice. Additionally, biochemical bone resorption markers like CTx and Trap-5b were elevated in serum samples of mimic treated group, while, reverse effect was observed in anti-miR treated animals along with increased bone formation marker P1NP. Moreover, transcriptome analysis with miR-539-3p identified a novel uncharacterized Akap-3 gene in osteoblast cells, knock down of which resulted in downregulation of osteoblast differentiation markers at both transcriptional and translational level. Overall, our study for the first time reported the role of miR-539-3p in osteoblast functions and its downstream Akap-3 signalling in regulation of osteoblastogenesis.

A Mismanaged Case of Hypophosphatemic Rickets

X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets is a common cause of inherited hypophosphatemia and is caused by mutation in the PHEX gene, resulting in excessive expression of FGF23 which causes phosphaturia. Due to its rarity, X linked hypophosphatemic rickets is poorly known and diagnosis is frequently delayed. Conventional treatment is based on oral phosphate salts supplementation and activated vitamin D analogs, which however, cannot cure the disease in most cases. Keywords: X linked hypophosphatemic rickets, FGF23, PTH

FGF receptor inhibitor BGJ398 partially rescues osteoarthritis-like phenotype in older high molecular weight FGF2 transgenic mice via multiple mechanisms

We have used Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF2) transgenic mice as experimental models for human X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH)-related degenerative osteoarthritis (OA) to investigate the pathogenesis of the disease and to test potential pharmacotherapies for treatment. This study tested the efficacy of BJG398, a small molecule fibroblast growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase (FGFRTK) inhibitor, to rescue the knee joint osteoarthritis phenotype in High Molecular Weight fibroblast growth factor 2 transgenic (HMWTgFGF2) mice. BJG398 was administered in vivo to 8-month-old female HMWTgFGF2 mice for six weeks. Histomorphometry, immunohistochemistry and micro-CT were used to examine the knee joints in BGJ398-treated and control mice. We assessed: Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 (FGF23) expression and FGFR1 activity; Matrix metalloproteinase 13 (MMP13) and Aggrecanase2 (ADAMTS5) expression; then signaling by SMAD1/5/8-pSMAD6, pERK1/2 and Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2). Using PrimePCR arrays, we identified a contributing role for major target genes in the TGFB/BMP2 signaling pathway that were regulated by BGJ398. BGJ398 inhibited HMWFGF2/FGF23-induced increase in bone morphogenic protein receptor-1, bone morphogenic protein-2 and 4 and Serine peptidase inhibitor, clade E, member 1. The results from Micro-CT and histology show BGJ398 treatment rescued the OA changes in subchondral bone and knee articular cartilage of HMWTgFGF2 mice. The gene expression and signal transduction results provide convincing evidence that HMWFGF2 generates OA through FGFRTK with characteristic downstream signaling that defines OA, namely: increased FGF23-FGFR1 activity with BMP-BMPR, activation of pSMAD1/5/8-RUNX2 and pERK signaling pathways, then upregulation of MMP13 and ADAMTS5 to degrade matrix. BGJ398 treatment effectively reversed these OA molecular phenotypes, providing further evidence that the OA generated by HMWFGF2 in the transgenic mice is FGFR-mediated and phenocopies the OA found in the Hyp mouse homolog of XLH with a spontaneous mutation in the Phex (phosphate regulating endopeptidase on the X chromosome) gene and human XLH-OA. Overall, the results obtained here explain how the pleotropic effects of FGF2 emanate from the different functions of HMW protein isoforms for cartilage and bone homeostasis, and the pathogenesis of XLH-degenerative osteoarthropathy. BGJ398 inhibits HMWFGF2-induced osteoarthritis via multiple mechanisms. These results provided important scientific evidence for the potential application of BGJ398 as a therapeutic agent for osteoarthritis in XLH.