LHX1

17q12 deletion syndrome is a condition that results from the deletion of a small piece of chromosome 17 in each cell. Signs and symptoms of 17q12 deletion syndrome can include abnormalities of the kidneys, urinary tract, and reproductive system; a form of diabetes called maturity-onset diabetes of the young type 5 (MODY5); delayed development; intellectual disability; and behavioral or psychiatric disorders. Some females with this chromosomal change have Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome, which is characterized by underdevelopment or absence of the vagina and uterus. Features associated with 17q12 deletion syndrome vary widely, even among affected members of the same family.

The part of chromosome 17 that is deleted is on the long (q) arm of the chromosome at a position designated q12. This region of the chromosome contains 15 genes, including LHX1. A deletion of this region results in a loss of one copy of the LHX1 gene in each cell, leading to a reduced amount of LHX1 protein. A shortage of this protein likely disrupts the regulation of genes that are necessary for the normal development of several organs, including the brain and female reproductive system. Researchers suspect that a loss of one copy of the LHX1 gene contributes to intellectual disability, behavioral and psychiatric conditions, and Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome in people with 17q12 deletion syndrome.

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