| treatment = Supportive care, physical therapy, safety measures
| medication =
| medication = [[Clonazepam]] (commonly used to reduce startle response)
| prognosis =
| prognosis = Varies; often improves with age, though startle response may persist
| frequency =
| frequency = Rare
| deaths =
| deaths = Rare, typically due to apnea or falls in early infancy
}}
}}
'''''Hyperekplexia''''' ("exaggerated surprise") is a [[neurologic disorder]] classically characterised by pronounced [[startle response]]s to tactile or acoustic stimuli and [[hypertonia]]. The hypertonia may be predominantly [[truncal]], attenuated during sleep and less prominent after a year of age. Classic hyperekplexia is caused by [[genetic mutation]]s in a number of different genes, all of which play an important role in [[glycine]] [[neurotransmission]]. Glycine is used by the [[central nervous system]] as an inhibitory neurotransmitter. Hyperekplexia is generally classified as a [[genetic disease]],<ref name='Startle Review'>{{cite journal|title=Startle Syndromes|journal=Lancet Neurology|date=2006-05-19|vauthors=Bakker MJ, van Dijk JG, van den Maagdenberg AM, Tijssen MA|pmid=16713923|volume=5|issue=6|pages=513–524|doi= 10.1016/S1474-4422(06)70470-7}}</ref> but some disorders can mimic the exaggerated startle of hyperekplexia.<ref name='Non-Genetic HEP 1'>{{cite journal|title=Persisting Hyperekplexia After Idiopathic, Self-Limiting Brainstem Encephalopathy|journal=Movement Disorders|date=2007-04-05|first=B. P. C.|last=van de Warrenburg|author2=C. Cordivari |author3=P. Brown |author4=K. P. Bhatia |pmid=17415799|volume=22|issue=7|pages=1017–20|doi= 10.1002/mds.21411}}</ref>
==Signs and symptoms==
'''Hyperekplexia''' is a rare [[neurological disorder]] characterized by an exaggerated [[startle reflex]]. This condition is also known as "startle disease" or "stiff baby syndrome" when it presents in infants. The disorder is primarily genetic and can manifest in both hereditary and sporadic forms.
The three main signs of hyperekplexia are generalized stiffness, excessive startle beginning at birth and nocturnal [[myoclonus]].<ref name="HEP in the Neonate">{{cite journal|last=Koning-Tijssen|first=M.A.J.|author2=O.F. Brouwer|date=2000-04-27|title=Hyperekplexia in the Neonate|url=|journal=Movement Disorders|volume=15|issue=6|pages=1293–6|doi=10.1002/1531-8257(200011)15:6<1293::aid-mds1047>3.0.co;2-k|pmid=11104232}}<!--|accessdate=2009-11-30 --></ref> Affected individuals are fully conscious during episodes of stiffness, which consist of forced closure of the eyes and an extension of the extremities followed by a period of generalised stiffness and uncontrolled falling at times.<ref name='Dutch Family Molecular Genetics'>{{cite journal|title=Molecular Genetic Reevaluation of the Dutch Hyperekplexia Family|journal=Archives of Neurology|date=1995-06-01|first=M.A.J.|last=Tijssen|author2=R. Shiang |author3=J. van Deutekom |author4=R. H. Boerman |author5=J. Wasmuth |author6=L. A. Sandkuijl |author7=R. R. Frants |author8=G. W. Padberg |pmid=7763205|volume=52|issue=6|pages=578–582|doi=10.1001/archneur.1995.00540300052012|hdl=2066/20657}}</ref> Initially, the disease was classified into a "major" and a "minor" form, with the minor form being characterized by an excessive startle reflex, but lacking stiffness.<ref name='Dutch Family Molecular Genetics' /> There is only genetic evidence for the existence of the major form.<ref name='Dutch Family Molecular Genetics' />
Other signs and symptoms of hyperekplexia may include episodic neonatal [[apnea]], excessive movement during sleep and the head-retraction reflex. The link to some cases of [[Sudden Infant Death]] remains controversial.<ref name='Startle Review' />
==Signs and Symptoms==
Individuals with hyperekplexia exhibit an abnormal startle response to unexpected stimuli, such as loud noises or sudden movements. This response is often accompanied by a temporary [[muscle stiffness]] or [[rigidity]], which can lead to falls and injuries. In infants, the condition may present as excessive [[muscle tone]] and a tendency to startle easily.
==Genetics==
===Infantile Hyperekplexia===
Hyperekplexia is known to be caused by a variety of genes, encoding both pre- and postsynaptic proteins. The symptoms displayed, as well as the forms of heritance, vary based on which gene is affected.
In newborns, hyperekplexia can be identified by a pronounced startle response and [[hypertonia]], which is an increased muscle tone. Affected infants may appear stiff and have difficulty with normal movements. The exaggerated startle reflex can interfere with [[feeding]] and [[breathing]], leading to potential complications.
===GLRA1===
===Adult Hyperekplexia===
The first gene linked conclusively to hyperekplexia was [[GLRA1]].<ref name='Dutch Family Molecular Genetics' /> The GLRA1 gene encodes the glycine receptor alpha-1 subunit, which, together with the glycine receptor beta subunit, forms synaptic glycine receptors. Inhibitory glycine receptors are ligand-gated chloride channels that facilitate fast responses in the brainstem and spinal-cord. [[Homomeric]] glycine receptors composed exclusively of alpha-1 subunits exhibit normal ion channel [[electrophysiology]] but are not sequestered at the synaptic junction.<ref name='Glycine Receptor Review'>{{cite journal|title=Native glycine receptor subtypes and their physiological roles|journal=Neuropharmacology|date=2008-08-03|first=J. W.|last=Lynch|pmid=18721822|volume=56|issue=1|pages=303–9|doi= 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2008.07.034|url=https://zenodo.org/record/895467}}</ref> Native glycine receptors are thus supposed to be [[heteromer]]s of the alpha-1 and beta subunits, in either a 3:2 or 2:3 ratio.<ref name='Glycine Receptor Review' />
In adults, the symptoms of hyperekplexia may include sudden [[falls]] due to the startle response, which can occur without warning. The condition can also cause [[anxiety]] and [[social withdrawal]] due to the unpredictability of the startle episodes.
Within these heteromers, it is believed that the alpha-1 subunits bind glycine and undergo a conformational change, inducing a conformational change in the pentamer, causing the ion-channel to open. Although [[autosomal dominant]],<ref name='Dutch Family Molecular Genetics' /> inheritance was initially reported, there are at least as many cases described with [[autosomal recessive]] inheritance.<ref name='Recessive GLRA1 Mutations'>{{cite journal|title=Recessive hyperekplexia mutations of the glycine receptor [alpha]-1 subunit affect cell surface integration and stability|journal=Journal of Neurochemistry|year=2009|vauthors=Villmann C, Oertel J, Melzer N, Becker CM|pmid=19732286|volume=111|issue=3|pages=837–847|doi= 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2009.06372.x}}</ref> Thus far, the general rule is that mutations causing structurally normal proteins that cannot bind glycine or cannot properly undergo a required conformational change will result in a dominant form of the disease, while mutations that result in truncated or wildly malformed subunits that cannot be integrated into a receptor protein will result in a recessive form.<ref name='Recessive GLRA1 Mutations' />
==Causes==
Hyperekplexia is often caused by mutations in the [[GLRA1]] gene, which encodes the alpha-1 subunit of the [[glycine receptor]]. Glycine is an important [[neurotransmitter]] in the [[central nervous system]], and its receptor plays a crucial role in [[inhibitory neurotransmission]]. Mutations in this gene can disrupt normal receptor function, leading to the symptoms of hyperekplexia.
===GLRB===
The [[GLRB]] gene encodes the beta subunit of the glycine receptor. Homomeric glycine receptors composed of beta subunits do not open in response to glycine stimulation,<ref name='GLRB'>{{cite journal|title=Residues within transmembrane segment M2 determine chloride conductance of glycine receptor homo- and hetero-oligomers|journal=EMBO Journal|year=1993|first=J.|last=Bormann|author2=N. Rundstrom |author3=H. Betz |author4=D. Langosch |volume=12|issue=10|pages=3729–37|pmc=413654 |pmid=8404844|doi=10.1002/j.1460-2075.1993.tb06050.x}}</ref> however, the beta subunit is essential for proper receptor localization through its interactions with gephyrin, which results in receptor clustering at the synaptic cleft.<ref name='GLRB2'>{{cite journal|doi=10.1016/0896-6273(95)90145-0|title=Identification of a Gephyrin Binding Motif on the Glycine Receptor Beta Subunit|journal=Neuron|year=1995|first=G.|last=Meyer|author2=J. Kirsch |author3=H. Betz |author4=D. Langosch |volume=15|issue=3|pages=563–572|pmid=7546736 }}</ref> As such, the defects within the GLRB gene show autosomal recessive inheritance.<ref name='GLRB3'>{{cite journal|doi=10.1093/hmg/11.7.853|title=Hyperekplexia associated with compound heterozygote mutations in the beta-subunit of the human inhibitory glycine receptor (GLRB)|journal=Human Molecular Genetics|date=2002-04-01|first=M. I.|last=Rees|author2=T. M. Lewis |author3=J. B. Kwok |author4=G. R. Mortier |author5=P. Govaert |author6=R. G. Snell |author7=P. R. Schofield |author8=M. J. Owen |volume=11|issue=7|pages=853–860|pmid=11929858}}</ref>
===SLC6A5===
The [[SLC6A5]] gene encodes the [[GlyT2]] transporter, a neuronal pre-synaptic glycine re-uptake transporter. In comparison to the GlyT1 transporter, found mostly in [[glial cell]]s, GlyT2 helps maintain a high concentration of glycine within the [[axon terminal]] of glycinergic neurons.<ref name='GlyT2'>{{cite journal|title=The Glycine Transporter GlyT2 Controls the Dynamics of Synaptic Vesicle Refilling in Inhibitory Spinal Cord Neurons|journal=Journal of Neuroscience|date=2008-09-24|first=F.|last=Rousseau|author2=K. R. Aubrey |author3=S. Supplisson |pmid=18815261|volume=28|issue=39|pages=9755–68|doi= 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.0509-08.2008}}</ref> Mutations of the SLC6A5 gene have been associated with hyperekplexia in an autosomal recessive manner.<ref name='GlyT2-2'>{{cite journal|title=Mutations in the gene encoding GlyT2 (SLC6A5) define a presynaptic component of human startle disease|journal=Nature Genetics|year=2006|vauthors=Rees MI, Harvey K, Pearce BR, Chung SK, Duguid IC, Thomas P, Beatty S, Graham GE, Armstrong L, Shiang R, Abbott KJ, Zuberi SM, Stephenson JB, Owen MJ, Tijssen MA, van den Maagdenberg AM, Smart TG, Supplisson S, Harvey RJ|pmid=16751771|volume=38|issue=7|pages=801–806|doi= 10.1038/ng1814|pmc=3204411}}</ref> Defects within this gene are hypothesized either to effect the incorporation of the transporter into the cellular membrane or to its affinity for the molecules it transports: sodium ions, chloride ions and glycine.<ref name='GlyT2-2' /> Any of these actions would drastically reduce the pre-synaptic cell's ability to produce the high vesicular concentrations of glycine necessary for proper glycine neurotransmission.
[[GPHN]] and [[ARHGEF9]] are often included in lists of genetic causes of hyperekplexia - but in fact they produce a much more complex phenotype, very distinct from classical hyperekplexia. As such they are no longer considered to be causative genes.
===GPHN===
[[Gephyrin]], an integral membrane protein believed to coordinate glycine receptors, is coded by the gene GPHN. A [[heterozygous]] mutation in this gene has been identified in a sporadic case of hyperekplexia, though experimental data is inconclusive as to whether the mutation is pathogenic.<ref name='GPHN'>{{cite journal|title=Isoform Heterogeneity of the Human Gephyrin Gene (GPHN), Binding Domains to the Glycine Receptor, and Mutation Analysis in Hyperekplexia|journal=Journal of Biological Chemistry|date=2003-04-08|vauthors=Rees MI, Harvey K, Ward H, White JH, Evans L, Duguid IC, Hsu CC, Coleman SL, Miller J, Baer K, Waldvogel HJ, Gibbon F, Smart TG, Owen MJ, Harvey RJ, Snell RG|pmid=12684523|volume=278|issue=27|pages=24688–96|doi= 10.1074/jbc.M301070200}}</ref> Gephyrin is essential for glycine receptor clustering at synaptic junctions through its action of binding both the glycine receptor beta subunit and internal cellular [[microtubule]] structures.<ref name='GLRB2' /> Gephyrin also assists in clustering [[GABA]] receptors at synpases and molybdenum cofactor synthesis.<ref name='GPHN2'>{{cite journal|title=Gephyrin: where do we stand, where do we go?|journal=Trends in Neurosciences|year=2008|first=J.-M.|last=Fritschy|author2=R. J. Harvey |author3=G. Schwarz |pmid=18403029|volume=31|issue=5|pages=257–264|doi= 10.1016/j.tins.2008.02.006}}</ref> Because of its multi-functional nature, it is not presumed to be a common genetic source of hyperekplexia.<ref name='GPHN' />
===ARHGEF9===
A defect within the gene coding for [[collybistin]] (ARHGEF9) has been shown to cause hyperekplexia in concert with epilepsy.<ref name='ARHGEF9'>{{cite journal |title=The GDP-GTP Exchange Factor Collybistin: An Essential Determinant of Neuronal Gephyrin Clustering|journal=Journal of Neuroscience|year=2004|vauthors=Harvey K, Duguid IC, Alldred MJ, Beatty SE, Ward H, Keep NH, Lingenfelter SE, Pearce BR, Lundgren J, Owen MJ, Smart TG, Lüscher B, Rees MI, Harvey RJ|pmid=15215304|volume=24|issue=25|pages=5816–26|doi= 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.1184-04.2004|url=http://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/9558/1/9558.pdf}}</ref> Since the ARHGEF9 gene is on the X chromosome, this gene displays X-linked recessive heritance. The collybistin protein is responsible for proper gephyrin targeting, which is crucial for the proper localization of glycine and GABA receptors. Deficiencies in collybistin function would result in an artificial lack of glycine and GABA receptors at the synaptic cleft.<ref name='ARHGEF9' />
==Diagnosis==
==Diagnosis==
There are three conditions used to diagnose if an infant has hereditary hyperekplexia: if the child's body is stiff all over as soon as they are born, if they overreact to noises and other stimuli, and if the reaction to stimuli is followed by an overall stiffness where the child is unable to make any voluntary movements.<ref name=":0">{{Cite book|chapter-url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK1260/|title=GeneReviews®|last=Tijssen|first=Marina AJ|last2=Rees|first2=Mark I.|date=1993|publisher=University of Washington, Seattle|editor-last=Adam|editor-first=Margaret P.|location=Seattle (WA)|pmid=20301437|editor-last2=Ardinger|editor-first2=Holly H.|editor-last3=Pagon|editor-first3=Roberta A.|editor-last4=Wallace|editor-first4=Stephanie E.|editor-last5=Bean|editor-first5=Lora JH|editor-last6=Stephens|editor-first6=Karen|editor-last7=Amemiya|editor-first7=Anne|chapter=Hyperekplexia}}</ref> A combination of electroencephalogram and an electromyogram may help diagnose this condition in patients who have not displayed symptoms as children. the electroencephalogram will not show abnormal activity other than a spike in wakefulness or alertness, while the electromyogram will show rapid muscular responses and hyperreflexia. Otherwise, genetic testing is the only definitive diagnosis.<ref name=":0" /> MRIs and CT scans will be normal unless other conditions exist.<ref name=":0" />
The diagnosis of hyperekplexia is based on clinical evaluation, family history, and genetic testing. [[Electromyography]] (EMG) and [[nerve conduction studies]] may be used to assess the startle response and muscle activity. Genetic testing can confirm mutations in the GLRA1 gene or other related genes.
==Treatment==
==Treatment==
The most commonly effective treatment is [[clonazepam]], which leads to the increased efficacy of another inhibitory neurotransmitter, GABA.<ref name='Startle Review' /> There are anecdotal reports of the use of [[Levetiracetam]] in genetic and acquired hyperekplexia.<ref name='Levetiracetam'>{{cite journal|title=The effect of levetiracetam in startle disease|journal=Journal of Neurology|first=G. J.|last=Luef|author2=W. N. Loescher|pmid=17401745|volume=254|issue=6|pages=808–9|doi= 10.1007/s00415-006-0437-z|date=June 2007}}</ref> During attacks of hypertonia and apnea, the limbs and head may be flexed towards the trunk in order to dissipate the symptoms. This is named the Vigevano maneuver after the doctor who invented it.<ref name='Vigevano'>{{cite journal|title=Startle disease: an avoidable cause of sudden infant death|journal=Lancet|year=1989|first=F.|last=Vigevano|author2=M. Di Capua |author3=B. Dalla Bernardina |volume=1|issue=8631|pages=216|pmid=2563117|doi=10.1016/s0140-6736(89)91226-9}}</ref>
Treatment for hyperekplexia often involves the use of [[medications]] to reduce the startle response and muscle stiffness. [[Clonazepam]], a [[benzodiazepine]], is commonly prescribed to help manage symptoms. In some cases, other medications such as [[valproic acid]] or [[carbamazepine]] may be used.
==History==
==Prognosis==
The disorder was first described in 1958 by Kirstein and Silfverskiold, who reported a family with 'drop seizures'.<ref name='Original Case'>{{cite journal|doi=10.1111/j.1600-0447.1958.tb03533.x|title=A Family with Emotionally Precipitated Drop Seizures|journal=Acta Psychiatrica et Neurologica|year=1958|first=L.|last=Kirstein|author2=B. P. Silfverskiold|volume=33|issue=4|pages=471–6}}</ref> In 1962 Drs. Kok and Bruyn reported an unidentified hereditary syndrome, initially started as [[hypertonia]] in infants.<ref name='Kok and Bruyn'>{{cite journal|doi=10.1016/S0140-6736(62)92475-3|title=An Unidentified Hereditary Disease|journal=Lancet|year=1962|first=O.|last=Kok|author2=G. W. Bruyn|volume=279|issue=7243|pages=1359}}</ref> Genetic analysis within this large Dutch pedigree was later found to carry a mutation within the GLRA1 gene, which was the first gene implicated in hyperekplexia.<ref name='Dutch Family Molecular Genetics' />
The prognosis for individuals with hyperekplexia varies. With appropriate treatment, many individuals can manage their symptoms effectively and lead relatively normal lives. However, the risk of injury from falls remains a concern, and ongoing medical management is often necessary.
==See also==
==Related pages==
* [[Jumping Frenchmen of Maine]]
* [[Neurological disorder]]
* [[Latah]]
* [[Startle reflex]]
* [[Stiff person syndrome]]
* [[Glycine receptor]]
* [[Genetic disorder]]
==References==
{{Reflist}}
== External links ==
== External links ==
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}}
}}
*[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK1260/ GeneReview/NIH/UW entry on Hyperekplexia]
*[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK1260/ GeneReview/NIH/UW entry on Hyperekplexia]
{{stub}}
[[Category:Rare diseases]]
[[Category:Neurological disorders]]
[[Category:Neurological disorders]]
[[Category:Reflexes]]
[[Category:Reflexes]]
[[Category:Rare diseases]]
[[Category:Rare diseases]]
[[Category:Neurological disorders]]
== Hyperekplexia ==
[[Category:Genetic disorders]]
<gallery>
File:PDB 1mot EBI.jpg|Hyperekplexia
</gallery>
Latest revision as of 02:55, 23 March 2025
A rare neurological disorder characterized by an exaggerated startle response
Supportive care, physical therapy, safety measures
Medication
Clonazepam (commonly used to reduce startle response)
Prognosis
Varies; often improves with age, though startle response may persist
Frequency
Rare
Deaths
Rare, typically due to apnea or falls in early infancy
Hyperekplexia is a rare neurological disorder characterized by an exaggerated startle reflex. This condition is also known as "startle disease" or "stiff baby syndrome" when it presents in infants. The disorder is primarily genetic and can manifest in both hereditary and sporadic forms.
Individuals with hyperekplexia exhibit an abnormal startle response to unexpected stimuli, such as loud noises or sudden movements. This response is often accompanied by a temporary muscle stiffness or rigidity, which can lead to falls and injuries. In infants, the condition may present as excessive muscle tone and a tendency to startle easily.
In newborns, hyperekplexia can be identified by a pronounced startle response and hypertonia, which is an increased muscle tone. Affected infants may appear stiff and have difficulty with normal movements. The exaggerated startle reflex can interfere with feeding and breathing, leading to potential complications.
In adults, the symptoms of hyperekplexia may include sudden falls due to the startle response, which can occur without warning. The condition can also cause anxiety and social withdrawal due to the unpredictability of the startle episodes.
Hyperekplexia is often caused by mutations in the GLRA1 gene, which encodes the alpha-1 subunit of the glycine receptor. Glycine is an important neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, and its receptor plays a crucial role in inhibitory neurotransmission. Mutations in this gene can disrupt normal receptor function, leading to the symptoms of hyperekplexia.
The diagnosis of hyperekplexia is based on clinical evaluation, family history, and genetic testing. Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies may be used to assess the startle response and muscle activity. Genetic testing can confirm mutations in the GLRA1 gene or other related genes.
Treatment for hyperekplexia often involves the use of medications to reduce the startle response and muscle stiffness. Clonazepam, a benzodiazepine, is commonly prescribed to help manage symptoms. In some cases, other medications such as valproic acid or carbamazepine may be used.
The prognosis for individuals with hyperekplexia varies. With appropriate treatment, many individuals can manage their symptoms effectively and lead relatively normal lives. However, the risk of injury from falls remains a concern, and ongoing medical management is often necessary.
