Mutational analysis of ATP7B gene and the genotype-phenotype correlation in patients with Wilson's disease in Serbia

Wilson's disease (WD) is an autosomal-recessive disorder which is characterized with a marked clinical heterogeneity. The gene responsible for WD is located in 13q14.3 chromosome, contains 21 exons and codes for copper specific transporting P-type adenosinetriphosphatase (ATPase) (ATP7B). Mutations in ATP7B gene change biosynthetic and transporting role of ATPase in cell leading to damaged billiary excretion of copper and its accumulation in the liver, brain, cornea and other tissues. Until now, it has been described more than 400 mutations in ATP7B gene with characteristic geographic distribution. The aim of this study was to assess the spectrum of mutations of ATP7B gene on a large number of patients in Serbian population and to make a correlation between particular genotypes and specific phenotypes.