Myotonic dystrophy affects many organs and systems in the body. For example, the DMPK gene that is defective in DM1 seems to play a role in the functioning of the brain, heart, and skeletal muscles. Those with myotonic dystrophy may become dizzy or faint if they experience irregularities in the electrical signals in the heart. They may also experience fatigue or difficulty sleeping or be unable to concentrate, if the disease affects their brain. Cognitive, or mental, functioning may also be impaired.
The exact function of the protein made by the CNBP gene, which is defective in people with DM2, is not as well understood. However, it is most common in the heart and skeletal muscle tissues, and seems to regulate the function of genes in these tissues. The bodily systems affected vary greatly among those with myotonic dystrophy.
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