Comprehensive insights into Menkes disease: Genetics, pathophysiology, animal models, diagnosis, and therapeutic strategies

Debojyoti Datta * and Preyashri Bose

Department of microbiology, St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata, India.
 
Review
World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 2024, 18(03), 087–092.
Article DOI: 10.30574/wjbphs.2024.18.3.0325
 
Publication history: 
Received on 23 April 2024; revised on 31 May 2024; accepted on 03 June 2024
 
Abstract: 
Menkes disease (MD) is an inherited disorder affecting primarily the males which is X-linked recessive in inheritance pattern due to mutation in ATP7A gene that codes for copper transporter protein. This results in neurological complications and connective tissue lesions that make affected males succumb to death. MD can be classified as the classical and Occipital Horn Syndrome (OHS) varieties, though the severity and early presentation of the classical MD is more pronounced. Diagnostic assays include determination of serum copper and ceruloplasmin concentrations; neurochemical studies are also performed. The standard treatment usually entails the use of copper supplements with copper – Histidine being one of the most effective. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the molecular pathophysiology of ATP7A disorder to come up with different therapies. Animal models such as zebrafish, fruit flies etc. are beneficial to know about MD pathology to get treatment. In summary, the early and accurate diagnosis of MD, followed by immediate treatment, plays a critical role in successful management of the disorder.
 
Keywords: 
Menkes disease; ATP7A Gene; Copper metabolism; Occipital Horn Syndrome (OHS); Copper-histidine therapy
 
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