Molybdenum cofactor deficiency
Molybdenum cofactor deficiency | |
---|---|
Synonyms | MoCD |
Pronounce | N/A |
Specialty | N/A |
Symptoms | Seizures, developmental delay, feeding difficulties, neurological deterioration |
Complications | N/A |
Onset | Neonatal |
Duration | Lifelong |
Types | N/A |
Causes | Genetic mutation |
Risks | Consanguinity |
Diagnosis | Genetic testing, biochemical analysis |
Differential diagnosis | Sulfite oxidase deficiency, Leigh syndrome |
Prevention | N/A |
Treatment | Supportive care, experimental therapies |
Medication | N/A |
Prognosis | Poor |
Frequency | Rare disease |
Deaths | N/A |
A rare metabolic disorder affecting molybdenum cofactor synthesis
Molybdenum cofactor deficiency is a rare metabolic disorder characterized by the inability to synthesize the molybdenum cofactor, a vital component for the function of certain enzymes in the body. This deficiency leads to a buildup of toxic substances and results in severe neurological damage.
Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]
The molybdenum cofactor is essential for the activity of several enzymes, including sulfite oxidase, xanthine dehydrogenase, and aldehyde oxidase. These enzymes play critical roles in the metabolism of sulfur-containing amino acids and purines. In molybdenum cofactor deficiency, the lack of functional cofactor results in the accumulation of sulfite, xanthine, and other toxic metabolites, leading to neurological damage and other systemic effects.
Genetics[edit | edit source]
Molybdenum cofactor deficiency is an autosomal recessive disorder, meaning that an affected individual must inherit two defective copies of the gene, one from each parent. The condition is caused by mutations in one of several genes involved in the biosynthesis of the molybdenum cofactor, including MOCS1, MOCS2, and GPHN.
Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]
Symptoms of molybdenum cofactor deficiency typically appear in the neonatal period or early infancy. Affected infants may present with severe seizures, developmental delay, poor feeding, and hypotonia. As the disease progresses, neurological deterioration continues, often leading to microcephaly and spasticity.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of molybdenum cofactor deficiency is based on clinical presentation, biochemical testing, and genetic analysis. Elevated levels of sulfite and xanthine in the urine, along with low levels of uric acid, are indicative of the disorder. Genetic testing can confirm mutations in the genes responsible for molybdenum cofactor synthesis.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Currently, there is no cure for molybdenum cofactor deficiency. Treatment is primarily supportive and focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications. In some cases, supplementation with cyclic pyranopterin monophosphate (cPMP), a precursor of the molybdenum cofactor, has shown promise in reducing symptoms and improving outcomes.
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
The prognosis for individuals with molybdenum cofactor deficiency is generally poor, with most affected individuals experiencing severe neurological impairment and reduced life expectancy. Early diagnosis and intervention may improve quality of life and extend survival.
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD