Comprehensive Genetic Analysis of Druze Provides Insights into Carrier Screening

Background: Druze individuals, like many genetically homogeneous and isolated populations, harbor recurring pathogenic variants (PV) in autosomal recessive (AR) disorders. Methods: Variant calling of whole-genome sequencing (WGS) of 40 Druze from the Human Genome Diversity Project (HGDP) was performed (HGDP-cohort). Additionally, we performed whole exome sequencing (WES) of 118 Druze individuals: 38 trios and 2 couples, representing geographically distinct clans (WES-cohort). Rates of validated PV were compared with rates in worldwide and Middle Eastern populations, from the gnomAD and dbSNP datasets. Results: Overall, 34 PVs were identified: 30 PVs in genes underlying AR disorders, 3 additional PVs were associated with autosomal dominant (AD) disorders, and 1 PV with X-linked-dominant inherited disorder in the WES cohort. Conclusions: The newly identified PVs associated with AR conditions should be considered for incorporation into prenatal-screening options offered to Druze individuals after an extension and validation of the results in a larger study.

Automated summary

Through variant analysis of whole-genome sequencing of 40 Druze individuals (HGDP cohort) and whole exome sequencing of 118 Druze individuals (WES cohort), several pathogenic variants associated with autosomal recessive and autosomal dominant disorders were identified. These newly identified pathogenic variants should be considered for inclusion in prenatal screening options, but further validation in a larger study is required.