Mulibrey Nanism: Clinical Spectrum and Molecular Pathogenesis.Int J Mol Sci 2026 May 01; 27(9).IJ
Mulibrey nanism is a rare autosomal recessive multisystem disorder caused by biallelic loss of function variants in TRIM37 encoding a peroxisomal E3 ubiquitin ligase. Initially described in Finland, where it remains most prevalent due to a founder mutation, the condition is now recognized worldwide and is characterized by severe prenatal-onset growth failure, distinctive craniofacial features, radiological abnormalities, ocular findings, and hepatopathy. Although its clinical spectrum extends far beyond these core manifestations, the major determinant of morbidity and mortality is progressive cardiovascular disease, including constrictive pericarditis and restrictive cardiomyopathy. Additional features include metabolic dysfunction such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, gonadal insufficiency, skeletal abnormalities including fibrous dysplasia, and an increased risk of benign and malignant tumours. The clinical course evolves across the lifespan from early growth and developmental abnormalities to progressive multisystem disease in adolescence and adulthood. Recent advances have expanded understanding of TRIM37 function, linking it to mTORC1 TFEB signalling autophagy, centrosome integrity, extracellular matrix regulation, and immune cell function, providing mechanistic insights into tumour predisposition, skeletal pathology, and immune dysregulation. Management remains supportive and requires multidisciplinary care with emphasis on early recognition and treatment of cardiac disease, metabolic complications, and malignancy risk. Prognosis is variable but improves with early diagnosis and appropriate surveillance. This review summarises the clinical spectrum molecular mechanisms and current management of Mulibrey nanism and highlights priorities for future research.
