Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome: A Literature Review

Abstract

Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) is a premature aging condition that involves genetic mutations, resulting in debilitating phenotypic features. The present state of knowledge on the molecular pathways that contribute to the pathophysiology of HGPS and the techniques being tested in vitro and in vivo to combat progerin toxicity have been discussed here. Nuclear morphological abnormalities, dysregulated gene expression, DNA repair deficiencies, telomere shortening, and genomic instability are all caused by progerin accumulation, all of which impair cellular proliferative capability. In addition, HGPS cells and preclinical animal models have revealed new information about the disease's molecular and cellular pathways and putative mechanisms involved in normal aging. This article has discussed the understanding of the molecular pathways by which progerin expression leads to HGPS and how the advanced therapy options for HGPS patients can help us understand and treat the condition.

Keywords: atherosclerosis; bone mineralization; clinical trial; generalized osteopenia; lmna mutation; lonafarnib.

Figure 1. The pathophysiological mechanism of HGPS.

HGPS: Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome; aa: Amino acids. Image Credits: Aselah Lamis