Msh2 deficiency leads to dysmyelination of the corpus callosum, impaired locomotion, and altered sensory function in mice

Sci Rep. 2016 Aug 1:6:30757. doi: 10.1038/srep30757.

Abstract

A feature in patients with constitutional DNA-mismatch repair deficiency is agenesis of the corpus callosum, the cause of which has not been established. Here we report a previously unrecognized consequence of deficiency in MSH2, a protein known primarily for its function in correcting nucleotide mismatches or insertions and deletions in duplex DNA caused by errors in DNA replication or recombination. We documented that Msh2 deficiency causes dysmyelination of the axonal projections in the corpus callosum. Evoked action potentials in the myelinated corpus callosum projections of Msh2-null mice were smaller than wild-type mice, whereas unmyelinated axons showed no difference. Msh2-null mice were also impaired in locomotive activity and had an abnormal response to heat. These findings reveal a novel pathogenic consequence of MSH2 deficiency, providing a new mechanistic hint to previously recognized neurological disorders in patients with inherited DNA-mismatch repair deficiency.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Corpus Callosum* / metabolism
  • Corpus Callosum* / pathology
  • Corpus Callosum* / physiopathology
  • DNA Mismatch Repair*
  • Demyelinating Diseases* / genetics
  • Demyelinating Diseases* / metabolism
  • Demyelinating Diseases* / pathology
  • Demyelinating Diseases* / physiopathology
  • Evoked Potentials*
  • Locomotion*
  • Mice
  • Mice, Knockout
  • MutS Homolog 2 Protein / deficiency*
  • MutS Homolog 2 Protein / metabolism

Substances

  • Msh2 protein, mouse
  • MutS Homolog 2 Protein