Mutation analysis of the WNT4 gene in Han Chinese women with premature ovarian failure

Abstract

Background: The WNT4 gene plays an important role in female sex determination and differentiation. It also contributes to maintaining of the ovaries and the survival of follicles.Methods: We sequenced the coding region and splice sites of WNT4 in 145 Han Chinese women with premature ovarian failure (POF) and 200 healthy controls.Results: Only one novel variation, in Exon 2 (195C > T), was detected among the women with POF. However, this synonymous variation did not result in a change in amino acid sequence (65 Asp > Asp). No further variants were found in any of the samples.Conclusion: Although we cannot provide any evidence that it is a possible disease-causing gene, this study is the first attempt to investigate the possible role of WNT4 in Han Chinese women with POF. © 2011 Chen et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.