University of Washington Werner Syndrome Home Page

Werner Syndrome

A Genetic Disease that Mimics Premature Aging

Department of
Pathology

Useful Information About
Werner Syndrome
and the WRN Gene:

Werner Syndrome International Registry

This site contains diagnostic criteria for WRN
and contact information for a central repository
of WS data and research and materials.

WRN Mutational Database

A compilation of WS associated WRN mutations.

Werner Syndrome (WS) is an uncommon, autosomal recessive human genetic disease that mimics premature aging. Patients with WS appear to age rapidly following puberty, and are at increased risk of developing cancer and cardiovascular disease. Symptoms of WS include premature graying and loss of hair, bilateral cataracts, osteoporosis, atherosclerosis, diabetes and scleroderma-like changes and ulceration of the skin.

The WS associated gene has been identified and named WRN.

This website was primarily designed as a resource for clinicians and basic scientists interested in WS medicine and biology.

Please read the disclaimer.

This UW Werner Syndrome Research Website was designed and constructed by Mike Moser, supported by NIA Training Grant T32 AG00057 from the Nathan Shock Center of Excellence in the Basic Biology of Aging, with assistance from Alden F.M. Hackmann, Ted Holtzman and Joe Don Heath, using input from George Martin, Ray Monnat and Junko Oshima as well as from published references. This index page was redesigned in August 2005 by Cathi Carol.

WS International Registry | WRN Mutational Database

Department of Pathology | School of Medicine | University of Washington