A New Case of Mitochondrial RNA Helicase SUPV3L1-Associated Neurodegenerative Disease: Ataxia, Spasticity, Optic Atrophy, and Skin Hypopigmentation (ASOASH)

Background: The gene encodes ATP-dependent RNA helicase SUPV3L1, which is a part of the mitochondrial degradosome complex or SUV3. SUPV3L1 unwinds secondary structures of mitochondrial RNA (mtRNA) and facilitates the degradation of mtRNA molecules. A nonsense homozygous variant in the gene was recently associated with mitochondrial disease. Our study presents the second documented case of pathology in humans.

Methods: Whole-genome sequencing was performed on the NovaSeq 6000 platform using pair-end reading. Data analysis was performed with an in-house developed pipeline.

Results: The 17-year-old female patient exhibited a diverse array of symptoms, including ataxia, spastic paraparesis, cognitive deficit, optic atrophy, and horizontal gaze-evoked nystagmus. Early onset of symptoms, such as ataxic gait and nystagmus, was noted, with subsequent progression of neurological manifestations. At the time of the observation, the proband had extensive regions of hypopigmented skin patches on the body and extremities, which have progressed over time. Whole-genome sequencing revealed compound heterozygous variants in the gene: c.272-2A>G and c.1924A>C; p.(Ser642Arg). RNA analysis demonstrated splicing changes attributable to the c.272-2A>G variant. ELISA assay showed increased Complex I content in the patient's fibroblasts. This case underscores the phenotypic diversity associated with mutations, emphasizing the importance of considering mitochondrial RNA helicase dysfunction in the differential diagnosis of neurodegenerative disorders. Further elucidation of the molecular mechanisms underlying SUPV3L1-associated pathology may provide valuable insights into targeted therapeutic interventions.