Neurofibromatosis type I (NF-1), or von Recklinghausen syndrome, is a complex multi-system neurocutaneous disorder caused by a
subset
In mathematics, a Set (mathematics), set ''A'' is a subset of a set ''B'' if all Element (mathematics), elements of ''A'' are also elements of ''B''; ''B'' is then a superset of ''A''. It is possible for ''A'' and ''B'' to be equal; if they a ...
of
genetic mutations
In biology, a mutation is an alteration in the nucleic acid sequence of the genome of an organism, virus, or extrachromosomal DNA. Viral genomes contain either DNA or RNA. Mutations result from errors during DNA or viral replication, mitosi ...
at the
neurofibromin 1
Neurofibromin (NF-1) is a protein that is encoded in humans, in the ''NF1'' gene. ''NF1'' is located on chromosome 17. Neurofibromin, a GTPase-activating protein that negatively regulates RAS/MAPK pathway activity by accelerating the hydrolysis ...
(''NF1'') locus. Other conditions associated with mutation of the ''NF1'' gene include
Watson syndrome. NF-1 is a
gene
In biology, the word gene has two meanings. The Mendelian gene is a basic unit of heredity. The molecular gene is a sequence of nucleotides in DNA that is transcribed to produce a functional RNA. There are two types of molecular genes: protei ...
on
chromosome 17
Chromosome 17 is one of the 23 pairs of chromosomes in humans. People normally have two copies of this chromosome. Chromosome 17 spans more than 84 million base pairs (the building material of DNA) and represents between 2.5 and 3% of the total DN ...
that is responsible for production of a protein (neurofibromin) which is needed for normal function in many human cell types. causes tumors along the nervous system that can grow anywhere on the body. is one of the most common genetic disorders and is not limited to any person's race or sex. NF-1 is an
autosomal dominant
In genetics, dominance is the phenomenon of one variant (allele) of a gene on a chromosome masking or overriding the Phenotype, effect of a different variant of the same gene on Homologous chromosome, the other copy of the chromosome. The firs ...
disorder, which means that mutation or deletion of one copy (or allele) of the is sufficient for the development of , although presentation varies widely and is often different even between relatives affected by .
, there are at least 100,000 people in the U.S. and about 25,000 people in the UK who have been diagnosed with NF. Common symptoms of include brownish-red spots in the colored part of the eye called
Lisch nodules, benign skin tumors called
neurofibromas, and larger benign tumors of nerves called
plexiform neurofibromas,
scoliosis
Scoliosis (: scolioses) is a condition in which a person's Vertebral column, spine has an irregular curve in the coronal plane. The curve is usually S- or C-shaped over three dimensions. In some, the degree of curve is stable, while in others ...
(curvature of the spine),
learning disabilities
Learning disability, learning disorder, or learning difficulty (British English) is a condition in the brain that causes difficulties comprehending or processing information and can be caused by several different factors. Given the "difficulty ...
,
vision disorders, mental disabilities, multiple
café au lait
''Café au lait'' (; ; French for "coffee with milk") is coffee with hot milk added. It differs from white coffee, which is coffee with cold milk or other whiteners added.
In France, it is typically served as a breakfast drink, often as a la ...
spots and
epilepsy
Epilepsy is a group of Non-communicable disease, non-communicable Neurological disorder, neurological disorders characterized by a tendency for recurrent, unprovoked Seizure, seizures. A seizure is a sudden burst of abnormal electrical activit ...
. While some people have major complications, others with the condition can lead productive and full lives.
NF-1 is a developmental syndrome caused by
germline mutations in
neurofibromin, a gene that is involved in the RAS pathway (
RASopathy). Due to its rarity, and to the fact that genetic diagnosis has been used only in recent years, in the past was in some cases confused with
Legius syndrome, another syndrome with vaguely similar symptoms, including cafe-au-lait spots.
NF-1 is an age-specific disease; most signs of NF-1 are visible after birth (during infancy), but many symptoms of occur as the person ages and has hormonal changes. was formerly known as von Recklinghausen disease, after the researcher who first documented the disorder,
Friedrich Daniel von Recklinghausen.
The severity of NF-1 varies widely, and little is known about what causes a person to have more severe or less severe symptoms. Even within the same family (as there is a 50% chance that a parent will pass their condition to their offspring), levels of severity can vary enormously.
60% of people with have mild cases, with few symptoms that have very little effect in their day-to-day lives. About 20% of people with NF-1 have what are considered moderate cases, with several symptoms that usually have a few cosmetic effects. The other 20% have severe cases, with several symptoms that affect the person's quality of life. Even in this last group, symptoms are rarely life-threatening.
Signs and symptoms

The following is a list of conditions and complications associated with NF-1, and, where available, age range of onset and progressive development, occurrence percentage of NF-1 population, method of earliest diagnosis, and treatments and related medical specialties. The progression of the condition is roughly as follows:
# Congenital musculoskeletal disorders may or may not be present
# Cutaneous conditions may be observed in early infancy
# Small tumors may arise in the retina which can eventually lead to blindness. Also, Lisch Nodules may grow on the iris, but these are harmless.
# Learning disabilities may arise in preschool children
# Neurofibromas may occur and can sometimes cause many dependent neurological conditions and cutaneous and skeletal disfigurement.
# Depression and social anxiety may occur as a result of disabilities caused by the condition
# Neurofibromas may, in 8-13% of cases, transition into cancer, which can be fatal
Musculoskeletal disorder
Musculoskeletal abnormalities affecting the
skull
The skull, or cranium, is typically a bony enclosure around the brain of a vertebrate. In some fish, and amphibians, the skull is of cartilage. The skull is at the head end of the vertebrate.
In the human, the skull comprises two prominent ...
include
sphenoid bone
The sphenoid bone is an unpaired bone of the neurocranium. It is situated in the middle of the skull towards the front, in front of the basilar part of occipital bone, basilar part of the occipital bone. The sphenoid bone is one of the seven bon ...
dysplasia, congenital
hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus is a condition in which cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) builds up within the brain, which can cause pressure to increase in the skull. Symptoms may vary according to age. Headaches and double vision are common. Elderly adults with n ...
and associated neurologic impairment.
Disorders affecting the
spine
Spine or spinal may refer to:
Science Biology
* Spinal column, also known as the backbone
* Dendritic spine, a small membranous protrusion from a neuron's dendrite
* Thorns, spines, and prickles, needle-like structures in plants
* Spine (zoology), ...
include:
* In NF-1, there can be a generalized abnormality of the soft tissues in the
fetus
A fetus or foetus (; : fetuses, foetuses, rarely feti or foeti) is the unborn offspring of a viviparous animal that develops from an embryo. Following the embryonic development, embryonic stage, the fetal stage of development takes place. Pren ...
, which is referred to as
mesoderm
The mesoderm is the middle layer of the three germ layers that develops during gastrulation in the very early development of the embryo of most animals. The outer layer is the ectoderm, and the inner layer is the endoderm.Langman's Medical ...
al
dysplasia
Dysplasia is any of various types of abnormal growth or development of cells (microscopic scale) or organs (macroscopic scale), and the abnormal histology or anatomical structure(s) resulting from such growth. Dysplasias on a mainly microscopic ...
, resulting in maldevelopment of skeletal structures.
*
Meningoceles and formation of cystic diverticula of the dura of the spine, unrelated to
Spina bifida
Spina bifida (SB; ; Latin for 'split spine') is a birth defect in which there is incomplete closing of the vertebral column, spine and the meninges, membranes around the spinal cord during embryonic development, early development in pregnancy. T ...
* Radiographically,
dural ectasia can lead to scalloping of the posterior vertebral bodies and to the formation of cystic
diverticula
In medicine or biology, a diverticulum is an outpouching of a hollow (or a fluid-filled) structure in the body. Depending upon which layers of the structure are involved, diverticula are described as being either true or false.
In medicine, t ...
of the dura of the spine. This may result in temporary or permanent loss of lower extremity sensorimotor function.
* Focal
scoliosis
Scoliosis (: scolioses) is a condition in which a person's Vertebral column, spine has an irregular curve in the coronal plane. The curve is usually S- or C-shaped over three dimensions. In some, the degree of curve is stable, while in others ...
and/or
kyphosis
Kyphosis () is an abnormally excessive convex curvature of the Spinal column, spine as it occurs in the Thoracic spine, thoracic and sacrum, sacral regions. Abnormal inward concave ''lordotic'' curving of the Cervical spine, cervical and Lumba ...
are the most common skeletal manifestation of NF-1, occurring in 20% of affected patients. Approximately 25% of patients will require corrective surgery.
Skeletal muscle weakness and motor control deficits
Deficits in motor function in NF-1 have been long recognised and have been historically attributed to nerve dysfunction. In recent years however, studies suggest NF-1 is associated with a primary problem in muscle function (myopathy).
Clinical findings in people with NF-1 include:
* Reduced skeletal muscle size
* Reduced exercise capacity
* Muscle weakness (The most recent study reports between 30–50% reduced upper and lower limb muscle strength in NF-1 children compare with matched controls).
Studies in genetically modified mice have thus far confirmed that the NF1 gene is vital for normal muscle development and metabolism. Knockout of the NF1 gene in muscle results in deregulated lipid metabolism and muscle weakness.
NF-1 is a disease in the
RASopathy family of diseases, which include Costello Syndrome, Noonan Syndrome, and Cardiofaciocutaneous syndrome. The RASopathies also present with skeletal muscle weakness. It is likely that impaired muscle function in these disorders is linked to altered Ras/MAPK signalling, however, the precise molecular mechanisms remain unknown.
Facial bones and limbs
* Bowing of a long bone with a tendency to fracture and not heal, yielding a
pseudarthrosis
Nonunion is permanent failure of healing following a broken bone unless intervention (such as surgery) is performed. A fracture with nonunion generally forms a structural resemblance to a fibrous joint, and is therefore often called a "false j ...
. The most common bone to be affected is the tibia, causing
congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia or CPT. CPT occurs in 2–4% of individuals with NF-1. Treatment includes limb amputation or correction by
Ilizarov method as a
limb-sparing technique.
* Malformation of the facial bones or of the eye sockets (lambdoid suture defects, sphenoid dysplasia)
* Unilateral overgrowth of a limb. When a plexiform neurofibroma manifests on a leg or arm, it will cause extra blood circulation, and may thus accelerate the growth of the limb. This may cause considerable difference in length between left and right limbs. To equalize the difference during childhood, there is an orthopedic surgery called
epiphysiodesis, where growth at the epiphyseal (growth) plate is halted. It can be performed on one side of the bone to help correct an angular deformity, or on both sides to stop growth of that bone completely. The surgery must also be carefully planned with regard to timing, as it is non-reversible. The goal is that the limbs are at near-equal length at end of growth.
Skin
* Flat pigmented lesions of the skin called
''café au lait'' spots, are hyper pigmented lesions that may vary in color from light brown to dark brown; this is reflected by the name of the condition, which means "coffee with milk". The borders may be smooth or irregular. These spots can grow from birth and can continue to grow throughout the person's lifetime. They can increase in size and numbers during puberty and during pregnancies. They are present in about 99% of patients of European origin and in about 93% of patients of Indian origin.
*
Freckling of the
axilla
The axilla (: axillae or axillas; also known as the armpit, underarm or oxter) is the area on the human body directly under the shoulder joint. It includes the axillary space, an anatomical space within the shoulder girdle between the arm a ...
e or
inguinal regions.
*
Dermal neurofibroma, manifested as single or multiple firm, rubbery bumps of varying sizes on a person's skin. Age of onset is puberty. Progressive in number and size. Not malignant. Can be treated with
CO2 lasers or by removal by a plastic surgeon specialized in NF1.
Eye disease
*
Lisch nodules in the
iris.
*
Optic nerve gliomas along one or both
optic nerves or the
optic chiasm
In neuroanatomy, the optic chiasm, or optic chiasma (; , ), is the part of the brain where the optic nerves cross. It is located at the bottom of the brain immediately inferior to the hypothalamus. The optic chiasm is found in all vertebrates, ...
can cause bulging of the eyes, involuntary eye movement, squinting, and / or vision loss. Treatment may include surgery, radiation +/- steroids, or chemotherapy (in children).
Neurobehavioral developmental disorder
The most common complication in patients with NF-1 is cognitive and learning disability. These cognitive problems have been shown to be present in approximately 90% of children and adults with NF-1 and have significant effects on their schooling and everyday life. These cognitive problems have been shown to be stable into adulthood mainly in the mid 20s to early 30s and do not get worse unlike some of the other physical symptoms of NF-1. The most common cognitive problems are with perception, executive functioning and attention. Disorders include:
* Approximately 42% of children with NF-1 have symptoms of
autism
Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by differences or difficulties in social communication and interaction, a preference for predictability and routine, sensory processing d ...
, with 36.78% of them being severe cases, 33.33% being mild to moderate cases, and 29.89% of them having both symptoms of autism and ADHD.
*
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and emotional dysregulation that are excessive and pervasive, impairing in multiple con ...
has been shown to be present in approximately 40% of children with NF-1.
* Speech and language delays have also been identified in approximately 68% of preschool children with NF-1.
* Motor deficits are common. Motor deficits due to NF-1 are probably not
cerebellar
The cerebellum (: cerebella or cerebellums; Latin for 'little brain') is a major feature of the hindbrain of all vertebrates. Although usually smaller than the cerebrum, in some animals such as the mormyrid fishes it may be as large as it or e ...
.
*
Spatial deficit.
Nervous system disease
The primary neurologic involvement in NF-1 is of the peripheral nervous system, and secondarily of the central nervous system.
Schwannomatosis
Schwannomatosis is an extremely rare genetic disorder closely related to the more-common disorder neurofibromatosis (NF). Originally described in Japanese patients, it consists of multiple cutaneous schwannomas, central nervous system tumors, ...
is a rare condition defined by the presence of multiple benign tumors of nerves that are frequently very painful. In addition to pain, weakness is a common problem. Symptoms usually begin in young or mid-adult years.
Peripheral neuropathy
=Neurofibroma
=
A
neurofibroma is a lesion of the peripheral nervous system. Its cellular lineage is uncertain, and may derive from
Schwann cells
Schwann cells or neurolemmocytes (named after German physiologist Theodor Schwann) are the principal glia of the peripheral nervous system (PNS). Glial cells function to support neurons and in the PNS, also include Satellite glial cell, satellite ...
, other perineural cell lines, or
fibroblasts
A fibroblast is a type of biological cell typically with a spindle shape that synthesizes the extracellular matrix and collagen, produces the structural framework ( stroma) for animal tissues, and plays a critical role in wound healing. Fibrobla ...
. Neurofibromas may arise sporadically, or in association with NF-1.
Neurofibroma conditions are progressive and include:
*
Plexiform neurofibroma: Often congenital. Lesions are composed of sheets of neurofibromatous tissue that may infiltrate and encase major nerves, blood vessels, and other vital structures. These lesions are difficult and sometimes impossible to routinely resect without causing any significant damage to surrounding nerves and tissue.
*
Solitary neurofibroma, affecting 8–12% of patients with NF-1. This occurs in a deep nerve trunk. Diagnosis by cross-sectional imaging (e.g.,
computed tomography
A computed tomography scan (CT scan), formerly called computed axial tomography scan (CAT scan), is a medical imaging technique used to obtain detailed internal images of the body. The personnel that perform CT scans are called radiographers or ...
or
magnetic resonance) as a
fusiform
Fusiform (from Latin ''fusus'' ‘spindle’) means having a spindle (textiles), spindle-like shape that is wide in the middle and tapers at both ends. It is similar to the lemon (geometry), lemon-shape, but often implies a focal broadening of a ...
enlargement of a nerve.
*
Schwannomas, peripheral nerve-sheath tumors which are seen with increased frequency in NF-1. The major distinction between a schwannoma and a solitary neurofibroma is that a schwannoma can be
resected while sparing the underlying nerve, whereas resection of a neurofibroma requires the sacrifice of the underlying nerve.
* Nerve root neurofibroma.
* Bones, especially the ribs, can develop chronic erosions (pits) from the constant pressure of adjacent neurofibroma or schwannoma. Similarly, the neural foramen of the
spine
Spine or spinal may refer to:
Science Biology
* Spinal column, also known as the backbone
* Dendritic spine, a small membranous protrusion from a neuron's dendrite
* Thorns, spines, and prickles, needle-like structures in plants
* Spine (zoology), ...
can be widened due to the presence of a nerve root neurofibroma or schwannoma. Surgery may be needed when NF-1 related tumors compress organs or other structures.
=Nerve sheath tumor
=

* Chronic pain, numbness, and/or paralysis due to peripheral
nerve sheath tumor.
=Other complications
=
* Renal artery anomalies or
pheochromocytoma
Pheochromocytoma is a rare tumor of the adrenal medulla composed of chromaffin cells and is part of the paraganglioma (PGL) family of tumors, being defined as an intra-adrenal PGL. These neuroendocrine tumors can be sympathetic, where they relea ...
and associated chronic
hypertension
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a Chronic condition, long-term Disease, medical condition in which the blood pressure in the artery, arteries is persistently elevated. High blood pressure usually does not cause symptoms i ...
*
Schwannoma
* Plexiform fibromas
* Optic nerve glioma
* Epilepsy
Central nervous system disease
=Epilepsy
=
* Occurrence. Epileptic seizures have been reported in up to 7% of patients.
* Diagnosis. Electroencephalograph, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomographic scan, single-photon emission CT and positron emission tomographic scan.
* Etiology. Due to cerebral tumors, cortical malformation, mesial temporal sclerosis.
* Therapy. Drug therapy (57% amenable) where not resistant (29%).
=Glial tumors
=
Intracranially, NF-1 patients have a predisposition to develop glial tumors of the central nervous system, primarily
optic nerve gliomas and associated blindness.
=Focally degenerative myelin
=
Another CNS manifestation of NF-1 is the so-called "unidentified bright object" or UBO, which is a lesion which has increased signal on a T2 weighted sequence of a
magnetic resonance imaging
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging technique used in radiology to generate pictures of the anatomy and the physiological processes inside the body. MRI scanners use strong magnetic fields, magnetic field gradients, and ...
examination of the brain. These UBOs are typically found in the
Cerebral peduncle
The cerebral peduncles (In Latin, ''ped-'' means 'foot'.) are the two stalks that attach the cerebrum to the brainstem. They are structures at the front of the midbrain which arise from the ventral pons and contain the large ascending (sensor ...
, pons, midbrain, globus pallidus, thalamus, and optic radiations. Their exact identity remains a bit of a mystery since they disappear over time (usually, by age 16), and they are not typically biopsied or resected. They may represent a focally degenerative bit of
myelin
Myelin Sheath ( ) is a lipid-rich material that in most vertebrates surrounds the axons of neurons to insulate them and increase the rate at which electrical impulses (called action potentials) pass along the axon. The myelinated axon can be lik ...
.
=Dural ectasia
=
Within the CNS, NF-1 manifests as a weakness of the
dura, which is the tough covering of the brain and spine. Weakness of the dura leads to focal enlargement due to chronic exposure to the pressures of
CSF pulsation, and typically presents as paraesthesia or loss of motor or sensory function.
It has been shown that dural ectasia occur near plexiform neurofibromas which may be infiltrative leading to weakening of the dura.
Acetazolamide
Acetazolamide, sold under the trade name Diamox among others, is a medication used to treat glaucoma, epilepsy, acute mountain sickness, periodic paralysis, idiopathic intracranial hypertension (raised brain pressure of unclear cause), heart f ...
has shown promise as a treatment for this condition, and in very few cases do dural ectasia require surgery.
Mental Health
People with NF1 are at increased risk for experiencing social and emotional difficulties such as; anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and/or body image, social withdrawal, difficulty forming interpersonal relationships, behavioural problems, and difficulties in school. People with NF1 are much more likely to experience suicidal thoughts than the general population. One study found that 45% of people with NF had suicidal thoughts compared to 10% of a healthy control group. Another study found that 46.5% were of people with NF1 were found to have at least one psychiatric comorbid diagnosis.
Neurodivergence
Children and adults with NF-1 often have
Autism
Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by differences or difficulties in social communication and interaction, a preference for predictability and routine, sensory processing d ...
and/or
ADHD
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and emotional dysregulation that are excessive and pervasive, impairing in multiple ...
.
* 30 - 50% of people with NF1 also meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD
* 11 - 26% of people with NF1 also have
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by differences or difficulties in social communication and interaction, a preference for predictability and routine, sensory processing di ...
Puberty and height
Children diagnosed with NF-1 may experience delayed or precocious puberty. Recent studies have correlated precocious puberty in individuals with NF-1 with the presence of optic pathway tumours.
Furthermore, the heights of children affected by NF-1 have been shown to increase normally until puberty, after which increases in height lessen when compared to healthy counterparts.
This eventually causes a shorter stature than expected in individuals with NF-1.
Cancer
Cancer
Cancer is a group of diseases involving Cell growth#Disorders, abnormal cell growth with the potential to Invasion (cancer), invade or Metastasis, spread to other parts of the body. These contrast with benign tumors, which do not spread. Po ...
can arise in the form of
malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor
A malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) is a form of cancer of the connective tissue surrounding peripheral nerves. Given its origin and behavior it is classified as a sarcoma. About half the cases are diagnosed in people with neurofi ...
resulting from malignant degeneration of a plexiform neurofibroma.
* Frequency. A plexiform neurofibroma has a lifetime risk of 8–12% of transformation into a malignant tumor.
* Diagnosis.
MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging technique used in radiology to generate pictures of the anatomy and the physiological processes inside the body. MRI scanners use strong magnetic fields, magnetic field gradients, and rad ...
.
* Treatment. Surgery (primary), radiation therapy.
* Mortality. Malignant nerve sheath tumor was the main cause of death (60%) in a study of 1895 patients with NF-1 from France in the time period 1980–2006 indicated excess mortality in NF-1 patients compared to the general population. The cause of death was available for 58 (86.6%) patients. The study found excess mortality occurred among patients aged 10 to 40 years. Significant excess mortality was found in both males and females.
Breast Cancer
Biological females with NF also have a five-fold increased risk of
breast cancer
Breast cancer is a cancer that develops from breast tissue. Signs of breast cancer may include a Breast lump, lump in the breast, a change in breast shape, dimpling of the skin, Milk-rejection sign, milk rejection, fluid coming from the nipp ...
and may have an increased breast cancer related mortality. The median survival for breast cancer in people with NF was 5 years vs. the reported median survival of over 20 years in the general population using the SEER database.
Cause
Neurofibromin 1 gene
NF-1 is a
microdeletion syndrome
In genetics, a deletion (also called gene deletion, deficiency, or deletion mutation) (sign: Δ) is a mutation (a genetic aberration) in which a part of a chromosome or a sequence of DNA is left out during DNA replication. Any number of nucleoti ...
caused by a
mutation
In biology, a mutation is an alteration in the nucleic acid sequence of the genome of an organism, virus, or extrachromosomal DNA. Viral genomes contain either DNA or RNA. Mutations result from errors during DNA or viral replication, ...
of a
gene
In biology, the word gene has two meanings. The Mendelian gene is a basic unit of heredity. The molecular gene is a sequence of nucleotides in DNA that is transcribed to produce a functional RNA. There are two types of molecular genes: protei ...
located on chromosomal segment 17q11.2 on the long arm of
chromosome 17
Chromosome 17 is one of the 23 pairs of chromosomes in humans. People normally have two copies of this chromosome. Chromosome 17 spans more than 84 million base pairs (the building material of DNA) and represents between 2.5 and 3% of the total DN ...
which encodes a protein known as
neurofibromin (not to be confused with the disorder itself) which plays a role in
cell signaling
In biology, cell signaling (cell signalling in British English) is the Biological process, process by which a Cell (biology), cell interacts with itself, other cells, and the environment. Cell signaling is a fundamental property of all Cell (biol ...
. The
Neurofibromin 1
Neurofibromin (NF-1) is a protein that is encoded in humans, in the ''NF1'' gene. ''NF1'' is located on chromosome 17. Neurofibromin, a GTPase-activating protein that negatively regulates RAS/MAPK pathway activity by accelerating the hydrolysis ...
gene is a negative regulator of the
Ras oncogene
An oncogene is a gene that has the potential to cause cancer. In tumor cells, these genes are often mutated, or expressed at high levels. signal transduction
Signal transduction is the process by which a chemical or physical signal is transmitted through a cell as a biochemical cascade, series of molecular events. Proteins responsible for detecting stimuli are generally termed receptor (biology), rece ...
pathway. It stimulates the
GTPase
GTPases are a large family of hydrolase enzymes that bind to the nucleotide guanosine triphosphate (GTP) and hydrolyze it to guanosine diphosphate (GDP). The GTP binding and hydrolysis takes place in the highly conserved P-loop "G domain", a ...
activity of
Ras.
In 1989, through linkage and cross over analyses, neurofibromin was localized to chromosome 17.
It was localized to the long arm of chromosome 17 by chance when researchers discovered chromosome exchanges between chromosome 17 with chromosome 1 and 22.
This exchange of genetic material presumably caused a mutation in the neurofibromin gene, leading to the NF1 phenotype. Two recurrent microdeletion types with microdeletion breakpoints located in paralogous regions flanking NF1 (proximal NF1-REP-a and distal NF1-REP-c for the 1.4 Mb type-1 microdeletion, and SUZ12 and SUZ12P for the 1.2 Mb type-2 microdeletion), are found in most cases.
Structure
The neurofibromin gene was soon sequenced and found to be 350,000 base pairs in length.
However, the protein is 2818 amino acids long leading to the concept of splice variants.
For example, exon 9a, 23a and 48a are expressed in the neurons of the forebrain, muscle tissues and adult neurons respectively.
Homology studies have shown that neurofibromin is 30% similar to proteins in the GTPase activating protein (GAP) family.
This homologous sequence is in the central portion of neurofibromin and being similar to the GAP family is recognized as a negative regulator of the
Ras kinase.
Additionally, being such a large protein, more active domains of the protein have been identified. One such domain interacts with the protein
adenylyl cyclase
Adenylate cyclase (EC 4.6.1.1, also commonly known as adenyl cyclase and adenylyl cyclase, abbreviated AC) is an enzyme with systematic name ATP diphosphate-lyase (cyclizing; 3′,5′-cyclic-AMP-forming). It catalyzes the following reaction:
:A ...
, and a second with
collapsin response mediator protein. Together, likely with domains yet to be discovered, neurofibromin regulates many of the pathways responsible for overactive cell proliferation, learning impairments, skeletal defects and plays a role in neuronal development.
Inheritance and spontaneous mutation
The mutant gene is transmitted with an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance, but up to 50% of NF-1 cases arise due to
spontaneous mutation. The incidence of NF-1 is about 1 in 3500 live births.
Diagnosis
Prenatal testing and prenatal expectations
Prenatal testing
Prenatal testing is a tool that can be used to detect some birth defects at various stages prior to birth. Prenatal testing consists of prenatal screening and prenatal diagnosis, which are aspects of prenatal care that focus on detecting problem ...
may be used to identify the existence of NF-1 in the fetus. For
embryos
An embryo ( ) is the initial stage of development for a multicellular organism. In organisms that reproduce sexually, embryonic development is the part of the life cycle that begins just after fertilization of the female egg cell by the male spe ...
produced via
in vitro fertilisation
In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a process of fertilisation in which an ovum, egg is combined with spermatozoon, sperm in vitro ("in glass"). The process involves monitoring and stimulating the Ovulation cycle, ovulatory process, then removing ...
, it is possible via
preimplantation genetic diagnosis
Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD or PIGD) is the genetic profiling of embryos prior to implantation (as a form of embryo profiling), and sometimes even of oocytes prior to fertilization. PGD is considered in a similar fashion to prenatal ...
to screen for NF-1.
While the presence of NF-1 can be identified through prenatal testing the severity with which the condition will be expressed is impossible to determine.
People with NF-1 have a 50% percent chance of passing the disorder to their offspring, but people can have a child born with NF-1 when they themselves do not have the condition. This is caused by a
spontaneous mutation.
Post-natal testing
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has created specific criteria for the diagnosis of NF-1. Two of these seven "Cardinal Clinical Features" are required for positive diagnosis. There is practical flowchart to distinguish between NF1, NF2 and schwannomatosis.
* Six or more
café-au-lait spots over 5 mm in greatest diameter in pre-pubertal individuals and over 15 mm in greatest diameter in post-pubertal individuals. Note that multiple café-au-lait spots alone are not a definitive diagnosis of NF-1 as these spots can be caused by a number of other conditions.
* Two or more neurofibromas of any type or 1 plexiform neurofibroma
* Freckling in the
axillary (
Crowe sign) or
inguinal regions
*
Optic nerve glioma
* Two or more
Lisch nodules (pigmented iris hamartomas)
* A distinctive osseous lesion such as sphenoid dysplasia, or thinning of the long bone cortex with or without
pseudarthrosis
Nonunion is permanent failure of healing following a broken bone unless intervention (such as surgery) is performed. A fracture with nonunion generally forms a structural resemblance to a fibrous joint, and is therefore often called a "false j ...
.
* A first degree relative (parent, sibling, or offspring) with NF-1 by the above criteria.
Psychological and Neurodevelopmental Disorders
In addition to physical manifestations, patients with NF1 are at high risk of developing
neurodevelopmental disorders
Neurodevelopmental disorders are a group of mental conditions negatively affecting the development of the nervous system, which includes the human brain, brain and spinal cord. According to the American Psychiatric Association Diagnostic and Sta ...
, which result in learning difficulties, attention problems, and other behavioral or social challenges.
Studies have shown that children with NF1 are particularly prone to being affected by conditions such as
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and emotional dysregulation that are excessive and pervasive, impairing in multiple con ...
(ADHD) or
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by differences or difficulties in social communication and interaction, a preference for predictability and routine, sensory processing di ...
(ASD), as well as psychological disorders such as anxiety or depression, highlighting the importance of multidisciplinary evaluation and care for these patients.
Autism spectrum disorder in NF-1
A significant number of children with NF-1 exhibit symptoms commonly associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), which can impact daily functioning.
These symptoms may include difficulties with flexibility and transitions, repetitive behaviors, challenges in social communication, social awareness, and adaptability.
Some studies have identified subtle but significant differences between ASD symptomatology in individuals with NF-1 and those with idiopathic autism.
These differences include stronger eye contact, fewer repetitive behaviors, and more pronounced autistic mannerisms compared to non-syndromic ASD.
Enhanced language skills have also been noted in this population.
More than 90% of children with ASD + NF1 demonstrate clinically significant challenges in interpreting social signals and social communication during interactions.
Discrepancies have been noted between parent-report questionnaires, such as the
Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS), and clinical observation tools as in the case of the
Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), suggesting that restricted repetitive behaviors in NF-1 autism may be qualitatively different or less severe than in idiopathic autism, and therefore may go undetected in ADOS assessments.
Studies indicate that parent-reported scores on the autistic mannerisms subscale of the SRS questionnaire were notably high, with two-thirds of children with NF-1 + ASD scoring in the severe problem range.
Regarding items assessing imagination and creativity, children with NF-1 + ASD exhibit similar levels of impairment as the autism group, while being significantly more affected than children with only ASD.
Furthermore, no differences were observed between the groups on items measuring hyperactivity. Similarly, no evidence of group differences was found for the anxiety item, which is also associated with certain genetic disorders, such as
Fragile X syndrome
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a genetic neurodevelopmental disorder. The average IQ in males with FXS is under 55, while affected females tend to be in the borderline to normal range, typically around 70–85. Physical features may include a lo ...
and
Cornelia de Lange syndrome
Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) is a genetic disorder. People with Cornelia de Lange syndrome experience a range of physical, cognitive, and medical challenges ranging from mild to severe. Cornelia de Lange syndrome has a widely varied phenotype, ...
.
Research suggests that Neurofibromatosis Type 1 and
Tuberous Sclerosis
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare multisystem autosomal dominant genetic disease that causes non-cancerous tumours to grow in the brain and on other vital organs such as the kidneys, heart, liver, eyes, lungs and skin. A combinatio ...
(TSC) exhibit similarities in the symptomatology associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
These findings may indicate the existence of shared neurobiological characteristics between the two syndromes that influence the presentation of ASD symptoms.
Due to their fewer observed repetitive behaviors and improved eye contact, these children may not exhibit the typical characteristics of idiopathic autism in clinical settings, increasing the likelihood that they will be overlooked by clinicians.
Unlike idiopathic ASD, both males and females seem to be equally affected, indicating a diminished protective effect of gender against ASD symptoms, akin to other syndromic causes of ASD.
Other studies do not find a significant association between neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
While children with NF1 exhibit more autism-related symptoms and behavioral problems compared to typically developing children, these are often explained by the presence of ADHD and other concurrent issues, without reaching clinically significant levels.
ADHD in NF-1
Children with NF-1 may experience behavioral difficulties related to inattention, impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inflexibility.
Studies have shown that clinical criteria for diagnosing ADHD are met by 23% to 50% of children with NF-1.
Children with NF-1 may sometimes have attention difficulties without hyperactivity or behavioral problems. In such cases, attention deficits might go unnoticed without formal cognitive testing, although some children may have attention issues that, while not severe enough for an ADHD diagnosis, would still benefit from support.
Individuals with neurofibromatosis type 1 often exhibit certain brain abnormalities known as T2 hyperintensities (visible on MRI scans), referred to as Unidentified Bright Objects (UBOs), which are located in specific brain regions such as the cerebellum, brainstem, thalamus, and basal ganglia—areas involved in motor signal processing and cognitive functions.
Some of these brain regions are also connected to attention-related networks, particularly those involved in cognitive flexibility and motor inhibition, which are essential for attention and behavior. It is well established that these networks are impaired in ADHD.
Studies suggest that while ADHD symptoms may partially explain attention problems in NF-1, such as impulsivity, they do not fully account for other deficits like cognitive control.
Children with NF-1 often exhibit impairments in planning, spatial working memory, and response inhibition, independent of ADHD, suggesting that the impact of ADHD on their attention and executive functioning is limited.
Although ADHD prevalence is a key factor in NF-1 cognition studies, comparisons between children with NF-1 and ADHD and those without ADHD have not consistently shown clear differences.
This creates confusion regarding how to differentiate the effects of NF-1 and ADHD on cognition. Moreover, focusing on ADHD symptoms might obscure attention issues that are specifically associated with NF-1.
Results from tasks assigned in studies comparing NF-1 + ADHD groups with children who have only ADHD suggest that NF-1 + ADHD is not simply a combination of both conditions, nor does ADHD merely exacerbate attention problems in NF-1.
These differences are qualitative rather than quantitative, supporting the idea that some deficits are unique to NF-1 and independent of ADHD. Additionally, certain attention issues, such as intrinsic alertness and visual scanning among distractors, may be considered characteristic traits of NF-1.
Treatment
Treatment for NF1 is limited, and there is currently no cure. Pain meds can be prescribed to help with pain. In some cases, growths may be removed surgically or reduced with radiation therapy. Treatment options are limited, given the tumours tendency to regrow following surgery and their propensity to transform into malignant tumours following radiation. Although surgery in these areas can cause further injury to nerves and additional neurological problems. The benefits of surgery should always be considered against its risks. Some NF tumours are inoperable.
Drug Therapies
Mirdametinib
Selumetinib
Selumetinib, is a drug produced by
Astra Zeneca sold under the brand name Koselugo, and was approved by the FDA in April 2020 for the treatment of NF-1 in the pediatric population who are two or more years of age. It is a mitogen-activated protein kinase inhibitor (MEKi) and is indicated for use in pediatric patients who are symptomatic and have inoperable plexiform neurofibromas. However, this medication is not curative and is not suitable for all patients.
Side effects of Selumetinib include headache, nausea/vomiting, abdominal pain and other problems of the
gastrointestinal tract
The gastrointestinal tract (GI tract, digestive tract, alimentary canal) is the tract or passageway of the Digestion, digestive system that leads from the mouth to the anus. The tract is the largest of the body's systems, after the cardiovascula ...
, fatigue, muscle pain, Constipation, Paronychia as well as dry skin and other skin and hair problems. The side effects can have a significant impact on a patient's life and may lead to someone having to discontinue treatment.
In an open-label, phase 2 trial of selumetinib with 50 children:
* 35 patients (70%) had a confirmed partial response, 28 of these patients had a durable response (lasting ≥1 year)
* After 1 year of treatment, the mean decrease in child-reported tumour pain-intensity scores was 2 points, which is considered a clinically meaningful improvement
Prognosis
NF-1 is a progressive and diverse condition, making the prognosis difficult to predict. The NF-1 gene mutations manifest the disorder differently even amongst people of the same family. This phenomenon is called
variable expressivity. For example, some individuals have almost no symptoms, while others may have a manifestation that is rapidly more progressive and can lead to significant disability and death.
For many NF-1 patients, a primary concern is the disfigurement caused by cutaneous/dermal neurofibromas, pigmented lesions, and the occasional limb abnormalities. However, there are many more severe complications caused by NF-1 like increased cancer risk, a plexiform neurofibroma has a 10-15% chance of developing into a MPNST (Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumour) Epidemiology NF-1 is estimated to affect around 25,000 people in the
UK.
In popular culture
Victor Hugo
Victor-Marie Hugo, vicomte Hugo (; 26 February 1802 – 22 May 1885) was a French Romanticism, Romantic author, poet, essayist, playwright, journalist, human rights activist and politician.
His most famous works are the novels ''The Hunchbac ...
's novel ''
The Hunchback of Notre-Dame
''The Hunchback of Notre-Dame'' (, originally titled ''Notre-Dame de Paris. 1482'') is a French Gothic novel by Victor Hugo, published in 1831. The title refers to the Notre-Dame Cathedral, which features prominently throughout the novel. I ...
'' (1831) is often cited as having influenced popular culture and shaped misunderstandings about neurofibromatosis, as it was assumed that the man who inspired
the book's protagonist had neurofibromatosis.
For many years, it was thought that
Joseph Merrick
Joseph Carey Merrick (5 August 1862 – 11 April 1890) was an English man known for his severe physical deformities. He was first exhibited at a freak show under the stage name "The Elephant Man", and then went to live at the London Hospital, ...
(popularly known as the Elephant Man) had neurofibromatosis. In 1986, geneticists Tibbles and Cohen theorized that Merrick instead had the much rarer
Proteus syndrome
Proteus syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that can cause tissue overgrowth involving all three Germ layer, embryonic lineages. Patients with Proteus syndrome tend to have an increased risk of embryonic tumor development.Freedberg, et al. (2003). ...
.
In
Abraham Verghese's novel ''
The Covenant of Water'' (2023), neurofibromatosis is referred to solely as "the condition" and is a key plot point.
In
Aaron Schimberg's film ''
A Different Man'' (2024), the main characters played by
Sebastian Stan and
Adam Pearson both have neurofibromatosis, which Pearson also has in real life.
See also
*
Neurofibromatosis type II
*
Characteristics of syndromic ASD conditions
References
External links
{{DEFAULTSORT:Neurofibromatosis Type I
Deficiencies of intracellular signaling peptides and proteins
Neurological disorders
Neuro-cardio-facial-cutaneous syndromes
RASopathies
Syndromic autism
tr:Nörofibromatoz tip 1