

The OPA3 gene provides instructions for making a protein whose exact function is unknown. The OPA3 protein is found in structures called mitochondria, which are the energy-producing centers of cells. Researchers speculate that the OPA3 protein is involved in regulating the shape of mitochondria.

At least three mutations in the OPA3 gene have been found to cause Costeff syndrome. This condition is characterized by vision loss, movement problems, and intellectual disability. Costeff syndrome is caused by mutations in both copies of the OPA3 gene in each cell, leading to a loss of OPA3 protein function. An OPA3 gene mutation that causes Costeff syndrome in the Iraqi Jewish population (written as 143-1G>C) alters the way the OPA3 gene's instructions are put together to make the protein, which results in a lack of functional protein. Cells without any functional OPA3 protein have abnormally shaped mitochondria. These cells likely have reduced energy production and die sooner than normal, decreasing energy availability in the body's tissues. It is unclear why cells that control vision and movement are particularly affected.

OPA3 gene mutations can also cause autosomal dominant optic atrophy and cataract (ADOAC). People with this condition have degeneration (atrophy) of the optic nerves, which carry information from the eyes to the brain, and clouding of the lens of the eye (cataract). These vision problems often occur in both eyes and can begin anytime from childhood to early adulthood. Some affected individuals have additional features such as hearing loss or movement problems.

People with ADOAC have a mutation in one copy of the OPA3 gene in each cell. The mutations that cause ADOAC likely result in the production of an abnormal OPA3 protein that interferes with the functions of the cell. These cells likely have decreased energy production, leading to early cell death. It is unclear why cells within the eyes are particularly affected.

Cytogenetic Location: 19q13.32, which is the long (q) arm of chromosome 19 at position 13.32

Molecular Location: base pairs 45,527,767 to 45,584,864 on chromosome 19 (Homo sapiens Annotation Release 108, GRCh38.p7) (NCBI)

  • FLJ22187
  • FLJ25932
  • MGA3
  • MGC75494
  • OPA3 protein