About Neonatal glycine encephalopathy

What is Neonatal glycine encephalopathy?

Neonatal glycine encephalopathy is a rare genetic disorder that affects the brain development of newborns. It is caused by a deficiency of the enzyme glycine cleavage system, which is responsible for breaking down the amino acid glycine. Symptoms of the disorder include seizures, developmental delays, hypotonia, and feeding difficulties. Treatment typically involves dietary management and supplementation with the amino acid L-carnitine.

What are the symptoms of Neonatal glycine encephalopathy?

The symptoms of Neonatal glycine encephalopathy can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but may include:

- Poor feeding

- Seizures
- Developmental delay
- Hypotonia (low muscle tone)
- Abnormal breathing patterns
- Abnormal eye movements
- Abnormal EEG patterns
- Abnormal MRI findings
- Abnormal liver function tests
- Abnormal blood ammonia levels
- Abnormal blood amino acid levels
- Abnormal urine organic acid levels

What are the causes of Neonatal glycine encephalopathy?

Neonatal glycine encephalopathy is caused by a genetic mutation in the GLDC gene, which is responsible for the production of an enzyme called glycine decarboxylase. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down the amino acid glycine, which is essential for normal brain development. When the GLDC gene is mutated, the enzyme does not function properly, leading to a buildup of glycine in the brain and resulting in the symptoms of neonatal glycine encephalopathy.

What are the treatments for Neonatal glycine encephalopathy?

The main treatment for neonatal glycine encephalopathy is dietary supplementation with glycine. This is usually done through a combination of oral and intravenous supplementation. Other treatments may include medications to reduce seizures, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. In some cases, a liver transplant may be necessary.

What are the risk factors for Neonatal glycine encephalopathy?

1. Maternal homozygosity for the SLC6A5 gene mutation
2. Maternal consanguinity
3. Maternal history of a previous child with glycine encephalopathy
4. Maternal advanced age
5. Maternal diabetes
6. Maternal obesity
7. Maternal use of certain medications, such as valproic acid
8. Maternal alcohol or drug use
9. Maternal malnutrition
10. Maternal infection during pregnancy

Is there a cure/medications for Neonatal glycine encephalopathy?

Yes, there is a cure for Neonatal glycine encephalopathy. Treatment typically involves a combination of medications, dietary changes, and physical and occupational therapy. Medications used to treat Neonatal glycine encephalopathy include L-carnitine, glycine, and sodium benzoate. Dietary changes may include a low-protein diet and supplementation with essential amino acids. Physical and occupational therapy can help improve motor skills and coordination.