GenEye24: Novel Rapid Screening Test for the Top-3 Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy Pathogenic Sequence Variants

Abstract

Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON) has been mainly (90-95%) associated to one of three variants: m.3460G>A, m.11778G>A, m.14484T>C. Herein, a screening method was developed for its detection, supporting clinical/therapeutics decision. It relies on real-time PCR with High-Resolution Melting (HRM) analysis. Variant classification is made using HRM Software and quality controls. Ninety-four samples were analyzed. All samples were correctly assigned: 58 wild-type, 35 positive for m.11778G>A, 6 positive for m.14484T>C, 2 positive for m.3460G>A. Results presented sensitivity=1, specificity=1, Positive Predictive Value=1 and Negative Predictive Value=1. A new Real-Time PCR/HRM screening method cost-efficient, simple, robust and quick, detecting LHON's top-3 is described.