What complication is associated with dystrophin protein deficiency?

Dystrophin protein deficiency is directly associated with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). Dystrophin is a vital protein that helps to maintain the integrity of muscle cell membranes. In individuals with DMD, mutations in the dystrophin gene lead to the absence or malfunction of this protein, resulting in progressive muscle degeneration and weakness. The lack of dystrophin makes muscle cells more susceptible to injury during contraction and eventually leads to their destruction.

As the muscle tissue is progressively replaced by fibrous tissue and fat, clinical manifestations of DMD become evident, typically in early childhood, including delayed motor milestones, difficulty in walking, and eventual loss of ambulation. The association between dystrophin deficiency and DMD is well-established in both genetics and clinical presentations, making this condition a direct consequence of defects in the dystrophin gene.

Other options do not relate to dystrophin deficiency. Marfan syndrome is a connective tissue disorder, cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder affecting the lungs and digestive system, and myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune neuromuscular disease. None of these conditions are associated with dystrophin or its absence. Therefore, the link between dystrophin deficiency and Duchenne Muscular D