Question: What are the genetic changes related to abetalipoproteinemia ?
Answer: Mutations in the MTTP gene cause abetalipoproteinemia. The MTTP gene provides instructions for making a protein called microsomal triglyceride transfer protein, which is essential for creating beta-lipoproteins. These lipoproteins are necessary for the absorption of fats, cholesterol, and fat-soluble vitamins from the diet and the efficient transport of these substances in the bloodstream. Most of the mutations in the MTTP gene lead to the production of an abnormally short microsomal triglyceride transfer protein, which prevents the normal creation of beta-lipoproteins in the body. A lack of beta-lipoproteins causes the nutritional and neurological problems seen in people with abetalipoproteinemia.
Source: GHR

Question: Is abetalipoproteinemia inherited ?
Answer: This condition is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, which means both copies of the gene in each cell have mutations. The parents of an individual with an autosomal recessive condition each carry one copy of the mutated gene, but they typically do not show signs and symptoms of the condition.
Source: GHR

Question: What are the treatments for abetalipoproteinemia ?
Answer: These resources address the diagnosis or management of abetalipoproteinemia: - Genetic Testing Registry: Abetalipoproteinaemia - MedlinePlus Encyclopedia: Bassen-Kornzweig syndrome - MedlinePlus Encyclopedia: Malabsorption - MedlinePlus Encyclopedia: Retinitis pigmentosa - MedlinePlus Encyclopedia: Stools - floating These resources from MedlinePlus offer information about the diagnosis and management of various health conditions: - Diagnostic Tests - Drug Therapy - Surgery and Rehabilitation - Genetic Counseling - Palliative Care
Source: GHR