Novel mutation of SACS gene in a Spanish family with autosomal recessive spastic ataxia

Autosomal recessive spastic ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay (ARSACS) is an inherited neurodegenerative disorder characterized by early-onset, spastic ataxia and peripheral neuropathy. It was originally described in an inbred population of Quebec and later in some other countries. We report a new missense SACS mutation (7848C>T) in a Spanish family whose phenotype is similar to that of the previously described ARSACS patients. 7848C>T is the first SACS mutation reported in Spain confirming worldwide distribution of the disease.