Summary Summary Short summary of a recent publication, written by scientific experts.

Assessing population-based prevalence of myotonic dystrophy type 1

Takeaway

  • Individuals with CTG repeat expansions in the myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1)-associated DMPK gene are up to five times more prevalent than in previously reported estimates.

Why this matters

  • DM1 (genetic disorder characterized by delayed muscle reaction and/or weakness and other multisystemic manifestations) results from a non-coding CTG repeat expansion in the DMPK gene, with ≥50 repeats constituting a DM1 diagnosis, and 35-49 repeats considered a transmissible premutation. Current prevalence of DM1 is thought to be underestimated.

    • Greater-than-estimated CTG repeat expansion prevalence rates highlight the importance of population-based screening for DM1, which may not manifest clinically until later disease stages, potentially allowing for early management strategies for affected individuals.

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Genetics Neuromuscular Paediatric Neurology Myotonic dystrophy type 1 CTG repeat expansion Blood screening program DMPK gene Population prevalence