Title
Baller-Gerold Syndrome: Description of Pathology
Document Type
Student Presentation
Presentation Date
4-24-2020
Faculty Sponsor
Dr. Julia Oxford
Abstract
Baller-Gerold syndrome (BGS) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by premature closure of cranial bones and abnormalities in the bones of the arms and hands. The exact prevalence of this disease is not known, but it is estimated that fewer than one per million newborns are affected. This is reflected in the medical literature with fewer than 40 cases being reported as of January 21, 2020. Cases are cited as being caused by a mutation in the RECQL4 gene that is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, though the proportion of patients that present with this mutation is not known. The RECQL4 gene is responsible for providing the instructions to make the RecQ helicases. Helicases temporarily unwind the DNA to allow access for DNA replication, transcription, or repair. Current treatments attempt to alleviate BGS symptoms. Implications that BGS has on development as well as how it affects patients’ progress in the duration of their life will be investigated.
Recommended Citation
Coughlin, Grace H.; Lighter, Darren J.; Sanchez, K.; Anaya Carmona, I.; and Oxford, Julia, "Baller-Gerold Syndrome: Description of Pathology" (2020). 2020 Undergraduate Research Showcase. 32.
https://scholarworks.boisestate.edu/under_showcase_2020/32