Projects / Programmes
Razvoj rutinskih metod za dolocanje presnovkov galaktoze in genotipizacijo galaktozemij (Slovene)
Code |
Science |
Field |
Subfield |
3.05.00 |
Medical sciences |
Human reproduction |
|
Code |
Science |
Field |
B000 |
Biomedical sciences |
|
galactosemia, galactose metabolism, genotype, cataract, infertility, ovary cancer
Researchers (9)
Organisations (2)
Abstract
Heterozygous carriers of classical form of galactosemia may develop presenile cataract, infertility in women, and ovary cancer. Mutations in the gene for galactose-1-uridyltranspherase (GALT) in heterozygous state cause variable diminution of the enzyme activity. Among the most common mutations in the GALT gene are Q188R, K285N and N314D. In the ongoing studies we so far identified possible heterozygous carriers for GALT with biochemical measurements of galactitol in a group of patients with presenile cataract. We also optimised a method for isolation of DNA from very small quantities of blood or tissue and set the conditions for genotyping. The aim of the present project is to develop a quick and reliable method for the determination of the galactose metabolites in serum and tissues and for the genotyping of the GALT gene, that could be used in the routine diagnostics in patients with presenile cataract, and also introduce this methods in the diagnostics of infertility and ovary cancer. Such routine diagnostic approach would provide the means for early detection of heterozygous carriers in the population at risk and consequently for the specific treatment and prevention of further deterioration. Routine methods for determining galactose metabolites and screening for the GALT mutations would also prepare conditions for the introduction of neonatal galactosemia screening that we lack in Slovenia.