POGZ

At least 17 POGZ gene mutations have been found to cause White-Sutton syndrome. This disorder is characterized by intellectual disability, specific facial features, and other signs and symptoms affecting various parts of the body, particularly vision problems and gastrointestinal problems. Most affected individuals have features of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a varied condition characterized by impaired social skills, communication problems, and repetitive behaviors. POGZ gene mutations are thought to impair the ability of the POGZ protein to bind to chromatin, leading to abnormal gene expression that affects development of the brain and other body systems. However, little is known about the specific changes in gene expression and how they lead to the development of intellectual disability and other signs and symptoms of White-Sutton syndrome.

POGZ gene mutations have also been identified in people with ASD without other typical features of White-Sutton syndrome (described above). While the exact disease mechanism is unknown, studies suggest that the POGZ gene mutations associated with ASD result in a POGZ protein with impaired ability to bind to chromatin. Lack of chromatin binding likely results in abnormal chromatin remodeling, altering the normal expression of genes involved in brain development and leading to ASD. It is unclear why POGZ gene mutations lead to White-Sutton syndrome in some individuals and ASD without additional signs and symptoms in others.