Initiation codon mutation (ATG → ATA) of the β‐globin gene causing β‐thalassemia in a Swedish family

Abstract
An initiation codon mutation ATG → ATA of the β‐globin gene was found in seven members of three generations of a family living in northern Sweden. This mutation, which has not previously been described, changes the initiation codon for methionine into a codon for isoleucine and will then result in a β°‐thalassemic phenotype. The affected family members all present hematological findings typical for β‐thalassemic trait, with slight anemia, marked microcytosis, and increased levels of Hb A2. ©1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.