Multiple beta cell-independent mechanisms drive hypoglycemia in Timothy syndrome

Abstract

The canonical G406R mutation that increases Ca²⁺ influx through the CACNA1C-encoded Ca_V1.2 Ca²⁺ channel underlies the multisystem disorder Timothy syndrome (TS), characterized by life-threatening arrhythmias. Severe episodic hypoglycemia is among the poorly characterized non-cardiac TS pathologies. While hypothesized from increased Ca²⁺ influx in pancreatic beta cells and consequent hyperinsulinism, this hypoglycemia mechanism is undemonstrated because of limited clinical data and lack of animal models. We generated a Ca_V1.2 G406R knockin mouse model that recapitulates key TS features, including hypoglycemia. Unexpectedly, these mice do not show hyperactive beta cells or hyperinsulinism in the setting of normal intrinsic beta cell function, suggesting dysregulated glucose homeostasis. Patient data confirm the absence of hyperinsulinism. We discover multiple alternative contributors, including perturbed counterregulatory hormone responses with defects in glucagon secretion and abnormal hypothalamic control of glucose homeostasis. These data provide new insights into contributions of Ca_V1.2 channels and reveal integrated consequences of the mutant channels driving life-threatening events in TS.

Gain of function mutant CaV1.2 channels drive life-threatening hypoglycemia in the multisystem disorder Timothy syndrome, but the underlying mechanisms are unknown. Here the authors show the mutant channels have adverse effects on counterregulatory hormones and CNS control of glucose homeostasis.