Novel microduplication of CHL1 gene in a patient with autism spectrum disorder: a case report and a brief literature review

BACKGROUND: The cell adhesion molecule L1-like (CHL1 or CALL) gene is located on chromosome 3p26.3, and it is highly expressed in the central and peripheral nervous systems. The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the L1 family of neural cell adhesion molecules, and it plays a role in nervous system development and synaptic plasticity. Moreover, studies of mice have revealed that CHL1 is a prime candidate gene for a dosage-sensitive autosomal form of mental retardation. To date, four patients with a microdeletion and two with a microduplication of 3p26.3 encompassing only the CHL1 gene have been reported in literature. CASE PRESENTATION: In the present study, we have described a 16-month-old boy with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developmental delay and minor dysmorphic facial features. This is the first report of a duplication of 3p26.3 including only the CHL1 gene in an ASD patient, and this duplication is the smallest reported to date in this gene. We also reviewed CHL1 gene mutation cases and examined whether this gene has an important role in cognitive function. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that both CHL1 deletions and duplications are likely responsible for the patient’s impaired cognitive function, and CHL1 may be an intriguing ASD candidate gene.