Fragile X Syndrome: FMR1 Methylation Analysis

Clinical Information

Fragile X syndrome is the most common form of inherited intellectual disability. Approximately 1/1250 males and 1/2500 females are affected by the condition. Some population studies have shown the carrier frequency to be as high as 1/250 individuals. The American College of Medical Genetics policy statement on Fragile X testing recommends consideration of testing for males or females with intellectual disability, developmental delay or autism, those with a family history of Fragile X syndrome or unexplained intellectual disability. Additionally, prenatal testing should be offered to known carrier females. Trinucleotide repeat analysis is the standard for Fragile X diagnosis. Patients with the above characteristics who had a previously normal cytogenetic Fragile X result should also be considered for trinucleotide repeat analysis. Methylation status may modify the phenotype observed.

Specimen Requirements

• The preferred sample type is 3-4 ml of peripheral blood collected in an EDTA (purple top) tube. Extracted DNA and saliva are also accepted for this test. Blood and saliva kits are available by request.
• Send approximately 5µg of extracted DNA at a requested concentration of 90-130 ng/µl.
• Saliva samples must be submitted in an approved saliva kit.

Transport Instructions

• The blood specimen should be kept at room temperature and delivered via overnight shipping. If shipment is delayed by one or two days, the specimen should be refrigerated and shipped at room temperature. Do not freeze the specimen. Samples collected on Friday can be safely designated for Monday delivery.
• Extracted DNA should be sent at room temperature via overnight delivery.
• Saliva is stable at room temperature and can be delivered via overnight or ground shipping.