Cockayne Syndrome - Genetics

Genetics

Cockayne syndrome is classified genetically as follows:

Mutations in the ERCC6 and ERCC8 genes are the cause of Cockayne syndrome. The proteins made by these genes are involved in repairing damaged DNA via the transcription-coupled repair mechanism, particularly the DNA in active genes. If either the ERCC6 or the ERCC8 gene is altered, DNA damage is not repaired. As this damage accumulates, it can lead to malfunctioning cells or cell death.

Mutations in the ERCC6 gene mutation makes up ~70% of cases.