A single strand conformation polymorphism/heteroduplex (SSCP/HD) method for detection of mutations in 15 exons of the KVLQT1 gene, associated with long QT syndrome
Larsen, L.A.; Andersen, P.S.; Kanters, J.K.; Jacobsen, J.R.; Vuust, J.; Christiansen, M.
Clinica Chimica Acta; International Journal of Clinical Chemistry 280(1-2): 113-125
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0009-8981 PMID: 10090529 DOI: 10.1016/s0009-8981(98)00177-6
Accession: 010099299
Congenital long QT syndrome (LQTS) is characterised by prolongation of the QT interval on ECG and cardiac arrhythmias, syncopes and sudden death. A rapid and reliable genetic diagnosis of the disease may be of great importance for diagnosis and treatment of LQTS. Mutations in the KVLQT1 gene, encoding a potassium-channel subunit of importance for the depolarisation of cardiac myocytes, is believed to be associated with 50% of all LQTS cases. Our data confirms that KvLQT1 isoform 1 is encoded by 16 exons, and not 15, as reported previously. We have used genomic DNA sequences to design intronic PCR primers for amplification of 15 exons of KVLQT1 and optimised a non-radioactive single stranded conformation polymorphism/heteroduplex (SSCP/HD) method for detection of mutations in KVLQT1. The sensitivity of the method was 100% when it was tested on 15 in vitro constructed mutants. By multiplexing the PCR amplification of KVLQT1, it is possible to cover all 15 exons in four PCR reactions.