Reviewed April 2008
What is the official name of the FH gene?
The official name of this gene is “fumarate hydratase.”
FH is the gene's official symbol. The FH gene is also known by other names, listed below.
What is the normal function of the FH gene?
The FH gene provides instructions for making an enzyme called fumarase (also known as fumarate hydratase). Fumarase participates in an important series of reactions known as the citric acid cycle or Krebs cycle, which allows cells to use oxygen and generate energy. Specifically, fumarase helps convert a molecule called fumarate to a molecule called malate.
How are changes in the FH gene related to health conditions?
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fumarase deficiency - caused by mutations in the FH gene
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Approximately 17 FH gene mutations that cause fumarase deficiency have been reported. Fumarase deficiency occurs in individuals who inherit two mutated copies of the FH gene in each cell. Most of these mutations replace one protein building block (amino acid) with another amino acid in the fumarase enzyme. These changes disrupt the ability of the enzyme to help convert fumarate to malate, interfering with the function of this reaction in the citric acid cycle. Impairment of the process that generates energy for cells is particularly harmful to cells in the developing brain, and this impairment results in the signs and symptoms of fumarase deficiency.
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hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell cancer - caused by mutations in the FH gene
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Approximately 50 mutations in the FH gene that cause hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell cancer (HLRCC) have been reported. Most of these mutations replace one amino acid with another amino acid in the fumarase enzyme.
People with HLRCC are born with one mutated copy of the FH gene in each cell. The second copy of the FH gene in certain cells may also acquire mutations as a result of environmental factors such as ultraviolet radiation from the sun or a mistake that occurs as DNA copies itself during cell division. These changes are called somatic mutations and are not inherited.
FH gene mutations may interfere with the enzyme's role in the citric acid cycle, resulting in a buildup of fumarate. Researchers believe that the excess fumarate may interfere with the regulation of oxygen levels in the cell. Chronic oxygen deficiency (hypoxia) in cells with two mutated copies of the FH gene may encourage tumor formation and result in the tendency to develop leiomyomas and renal cell cancer.
Where is the FH gene located?
Cytogenetic Location: 1q42.1
Molecular Location on chromosome 1: base pairs 239,727,525 to 239,749,676
The FH gene is located on the long (q) arm of chromosome 1 at position 42.1.
More precisely, the FH gene is located from base pair 239,727,525 to base pair 239,749,676 on chromosome 1.
See How do geneticists indicate the location of a gene? in the Handbook.
Where can I find additional information about FH?
You and your healthcare professional may find the following resources about FH helpful.
- Educational resources - Information pages
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Gene Tests - DNA tests ordered by healthcare professionals (2 links)
You may also be interested in these resources, which are designed for genetics professionals and researchers.
- PubMed - Recent literature
- OMIM - Genetic disorder catalog
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What other names do people use for the FH gene or gene products?
- fumarase
- fumarase hydratase
- FUMH_HUMAN
- HLRCC
- LRCC
- MCL
- MCUL1
Where can I find general information about genes?
The Handbook provides basic information about genetics in clear language.
These links provide additional genetics resources that may be useful.
What glossary definitions help with understanding FH?
The resources on this site should not be used as a substitute for
professional medical care or advice. Users seeking information about
a personal genetic disease, syndrome, or condition should consult with a qualified
healthcare professional.
See How can I find a genetics professional in my area? in the Handbook.