
Garg-Mishra: New Genetic Disorder Named After Indian American Scientists
India-West Staff Reporter
BALTIMORE, MD – A newly identified genetic disorder causing rapid aging has been named Garg-Mishra Progeroid Syndrome (GMPGS) in honor of its discoverers, Dr. Abhimanyu Garg and Dr. Prashant Mishra. This rare condition is linked to a mutation in the TOMM7 gene, which encodes a key component of the mitochondrial outer membrane import complex.
GMPGS is characterized by severe dwarfism, a shortened lifespan, mandibular hypoplasia (underdeveloped jaw bone), microphthalmia (small eyes), hyperopia (farsightedness), and partial lipodystrophy (loss of fat in the limbs). The syndrome was first identified in a 2022 case involving a 21-year-old Malaysian patient who exhibited extreme dwarfism, significant vision impairment, and weighed only 46 pounds.
Garg, a Professor of Internal Medicine at UT Southwestern Medical Center, has made groundbreaking contributions to research on metabolic diseases and lipodystrophy, including the development of FDA-approved leptin therapy. He has authored over 170 scientific papers.
Mishra, an Associate Professor at the Children’s Medical Center Research Institute, specializes in mitochondrial diseases and cellular dysfunctions, advancing potential therapeutic strategies. Together, their collaborative work led to the identification and naming of this unique form of progeria.
The McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine at Johns Hopkins University officially named the syndrome to recognize Garg and Mishra’s critical contributions. Their discovery provides crucial insights into genetic and metabolic diseases and lays the groundwork for future research and treatments.