C-Nap1 mutation affects centriole cohesion and is associated with a Seckel-like syndrome in cattle

Abstract

Caprine-like Generalized Hypoplasia Syndrome (SHGC) is an autosomal-recessive disorder in Montbéliarde cattle. Affected animals present a wide range of clinical features that include the following: delayed development with low birth weight, hind limb muscular hypoplasia, caprine-like thin head and partial coat depigmentation. Here we show that SHGC is caused by a truncating mutation in the CEP250 gene that encodes the centrosomal protein C-Nap1. This mutation results in centrosome splitting, which neither affects centriole ultrastructure and duplication in dividing cells nor centriole function in cilium assembly and mitotic spindle organization. Loss of C-Nap1-mediated centriole cohesion leads to an altered cell migration phenotype. This discovery extends the range of loci that constitute the spectrum of autosomal primary recessive microcephaly (MCPH) and Seckel-like syndromes.

Abstract

SHGC syndrome affects cattle and has clinical features similar to human Seckel syndrome. Here Floriot et al. identify the causative mutation in the centrosomal protein C-Nap1 that affects centriole cohesion and cell migration, extending the range of loci involved in human Seckel-like syndromes.