Fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 IIIb invalidation - A potential cause of familial duodenal atresia

Timothy J. Fairbanks, Robert Kanard, Pierre M. Del Moral, Frederic G. Sala, Stijn De Langhe, David Warburton, Kathryn D. Anderson, Saverio Bellusci, R. Cartland Burns

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Background/purpose Duodenal atresia (DA) occurs in 1 in every 6,000 live births and represents a significant surgically correctable cause of intestinal obstruction in the neonate. Familial or congenital DA has been reported, implying that at least some cases of DA are the result of genetic, heritable abnormalities. The genes controlling duodenal development are incompletely understood. Fibroblast growth factor receptor 2IIIb (Fgfr2b) is known to play a critical role in the development of multiple organ systems including other gastrointestinal tract (GIT) structures. This study shows the key role of Fgfr2b in normal duodenal development and the pathogenesis of DA. Methods Wild type (Wt) and Fgfr2b-/- embryos were harvested from timed pregnant mothers at stage E18.5 and were analyzed for duodenal phenotype. Results Inactivation of Fgfr2b results in DA. DA is present in the Fgf2b-/- mutants with a 35% penetrance. The duodenal phenotype of the Fgf2b-/- mutants ranges from normal to a mucosal web, type I, and type III atresia. Conclusions Fgfr2b is a critical regulatory gene in the development of the duodenum. Fgfr2b invalidation (Fgfr2b-/- mutant) results in a reproducible, autosomal recessive duodenal atresia phenotype with incomplete penetrance and a variable phenotype.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)872-874
Number of pages3
JournalJournal of pediatric surgery
Volume39
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2004

Keywords

  • Fibroblast growth factor receptor 2IIIb
  • congenital duodenal atresia
  • duodenal atresia
  • familial duodenal atresia
  • gastrointestinal development
  • intestinal atresia

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery
  • Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health

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