SCA36 (NOP56) Genetic Testing (Repeat Expansion)
Use
Spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs), and episodic ataxias are the most common types of autosomal dominant cerebellar ataxias (ADCAs). SCAs are numbered based upon their time of identification. SCA3 is the most common type of SCA worldwide, followed by SCA2, SCA1, and SCA6. Some of the complicated forms have not been given a SCA number, like Dentatorubral Pallidoluysian Atrophy (DRPLA). Anticipation can be observed in the autosomal dominant ataxias in which CAG trinucleotide repeats occur. Anticipation results from expansion in the number of CAG repeats with transmission of the gene to subsequent generations. Most ADCAs have an overlap in clinical presentation, which makes it hard to differentiate. The most frequent clinical symptoms in all ADCAs are progressive adult-onset gait ataxia (often with hand dysmetria), and dysarthria associated with cerebellar atrophy. The episodic ataxias are characterized by periods of unsteady gait and often associated with nystagmus or dysarthria. Myokymia, vertigo, or hearing loss may occur in some of the subtypes. Permanent ataxia and even cerebellar atrophy may result late in the disease course.
Special Instructions
Ensure specimens are collected according to the specified instructions to avoid rejection. Whole blood should be collected in lavender-top (EDTA) tubes and oral swabs should follow kit instructions. For extracted DNA inquiries, contact MNG Genetic Services at 844-664-8378. Maintain specimens at room temperature or refrigerated, and do not freeze.
Limitations
Results from this test might yield false positives or negatives due to several factors such as insufficient information about rare genetic variants, allele dropout, blood transfusions, or somatic mosaicism. There are maximum limits for reportable repeat expansions across different genes; for NOP56, the repeat limit is 65. Values exceeding these limits are reported as greater than the specified maximum.
Methodology
PCR-based (qPCR)
Biomarkers
Result Turnaround Time
14-28 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
4 mL
Minimum Volume
2 mL
Container
lavender-top (EDTA) tube
Collection Instructions
Standard phlebotomy
Storage Instructions
Maintain specimen at room temperature or refrigerate at 4°C. Do not freeze.
Causes for Rejection
Frozen or hemolyzed specimen; quantity not sufficient for analysis; improper container
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 30 days |
