Definition

The BCKDHB gene encodes the E1β subunit of the BCKD complex and forms the functional E1 heterotetramer together with BCKDHA (E1α); variants in this subunit disrupt the same biochemical pathway and lead to the accumulation of branched-chain amino acids. The clinical picture cannot be distinguished from the other MSUD types.

Gene/region analyzed

BCKDHB - Exon 1, BCKDHB - Exon 2, BCKDHB - Exon 3, BCKDHB - Exon 4, BCKDHB - Exon 5, BCKDHB - Exon 6, BCKDHB - Exon 7, BCKDHB - Exon 8, BCKDHB - Exon 9, BCKDHB - Exon 10

Method

Sequence analysis

Accepted sample types

EDTA blood, AF, CVS

Inheritance

Hereditary, autosomal recessive (AR).

Related Tests

Inheritance Patterns

Describes how a genetic condition is passed on within a family. There are five main patterns

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Carrier (Heterozygous / Homozygous)

Why it matters: In autosomal recessive inheritance, when each parent is a carrier (while both appear healthy), the chance of their child being born with the disease is 25% in each

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VUS (Variant of Uncertain Significance)

This is the situation where the test has detected a change in the DNA, but the role of this change in the development of disease is unconfirmed.

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How to Read a Genetic Test Result (Positive / Negative / VUS)

A genetic test result falls into three main categories

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Types of Genetic Tests

A genetic test is a type of medical test that detects changes in genes, chromosomes or proteins. Today there are more than 77,000 genetic tests available.

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