A new study published in the journal International Journal of Oral Science has identified double heterozygous pathogenic mutations in the KIF3C and ZNF513 genes as a cause of hereditary gingival fibromatosis (HGF).
HGF is a rare inherited condition characterized by an overgrowth of gum tissue. It can cause a variety of problems, including crowded teeth, difficulty chewing, and speech problems. Currently, there is no cure for HGF, and patients must undergo repeated surgery to remove the excess gum tissue.
The findings of this new study could lead to new diagnostic and treatment options for HGF. By understanding the genetic causes of HGF, researchers may be able to develop new drugs or therapies that target the underlying disease mechanism.