Cot death ‘linked’ to mutant gene that affects breathing
COT death may be linked to rare genetic mutations associated with impaired breathing, research suggests.
A study focused on mutations in the SCN4A gene, which helps regulate the muscular control of breathing.
Defects are associated with neuromuscular disorders that make breathing difficult.
Typically, SCN4A mutations are very rare, hitting five people in every 100,000. But the study uncovered harmful mutant versions in four of 278 cot death victims.
Having one of the gene variants may leave some tots with weaker breathing muscles, the team said.
Prof Michael Hanna, of University College London, said: “Our study is the first to link a genetic cause of weaker breathing muscles with sudden infant death syndrome. However, more research will be needed.”