MAP3K1-related gonadal dysgenesis: Six new cases and review of the literature

Abstract

Investigation of disorders of sex development (DSD) has resulted in the discovery of multiple sex-determining genes. MAP3K1 encodes a signal transduction regulator in the sex determination pathway and is emerging as one of the more common genes responsible for 46,XY DSD presenting as complete or partial gonadal dysgenesis. Clinical assessment, endocrine evaluation, and genetic analysis were performed in six individuals from four unrelated families with 46,XY DSD. All six individuals were found to have likely pathogenic MAP3K1 variants. Three of these individuals presented with complete gonadal dysgenesis, characterized by bilateral streak gonads with typical internal and external female genitalia, while the other three presented with partial gonadal dysgenesis, characterized by incomplete testicular development, resulting in clitoral hypertrophy with otherwise typical female external genitalia. Testing for MAP3K1 variants should be considered in patients with 46,XY complete or partial gonadal dysgenesis, particularly in families with multiple members affected with 46,XY DSD. Identification of a MAP3K1 variant should prompt an evaluation for DSD in female siblings of the proband.

Keywords: MAP3K1; 46,XY DSD; disorders of sex development; gonadal dysgenesis.

Figure 1

Pedigrees of two families with MAP3K1-related gonadal dysgenesis. Affected individuals with 46,XY karyotypes, complete or partial gonadal dysgenesis, and likely pathogenic MAP3K1 variants are represented by black circles and + signs. Unaffected, presumably 46,XX females carrying MAP3K1 variants are denoted by open circles and + signs. The probands are denoted by arrows.