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SGO1 gene
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Gene

SGO1 gene

The SGO1 gene provides instructions for making part of the cohesin protein complex, which is essential for maintaining chromosomal stability during cell division.

Normal Function

The SGO1 gene provides instructions for making part of a protein complex called cohesin. This protein complex helps control the placement of chromosomes during cell division. Before cells divide, they must copy all of their chromosomes. The copied DNA from each chromosome is arranged into two identical structures, called sister chromatids, which are attached to one another during the early stages of cell division. Cohesin holds the sister chromatids together, and in doing so helps maintain the stability of chromosomal structure during cell division.

Health Conditions Related to Genetic Changes

Chronic atrial and intestinal dysrhythmia

At least one SGO1 gene mutation has been identified in people with chronic atrial and intestinal dysrhythmia (CAID), a disorder affecting the normal rhythmic movements of the heart and the digestive system. The SGO1 gene mutation that causes CAID replaces a protein building block (amino acid) called lysine with the amino acid glutamic acid at protein position 23, written as Lys23Glu or K23E.

Researchers suggest that the mutation may result in a cohesin complex that is less able to hold sister chromatids together, resulting in decreased chromosomal stability during cell division. This instability is thought to cause early aging (senescence) of cells in the intestinal muscle and in the heart's natural pacemaker (the sinoatrial node), resulting in problems maintaining proper rhythmic movements of the heart and intestines and leading to the signs and symptoms of CAID.

It is unclear why SGO1 gene mutations specifically affect the heart and intestines in CAID. Researchers suggest that the activity (expression) of the SGO1 gene in certain embryonic tissues or a particular function of the SGO1 protein in the sinoatrial node and in cells that help control the rhythm of intestinal movements may account for the features of the disorder.

Other Names for This Gene

  • hSgo1
  • NY-BR-85
  • serologically defined breast cancer antigen NY-BR-85
  • SGO
  • Sgo1
  • SGOL1
  • SGOL1_HUMAN
  • shugoshin-like 1
  • shugoshin-like 1 (S. pombe)

Frequently Asked Questions

Testing for the SGO1 Lys23Glu (K23E) variant can confirm a molecular cause for CAID, guide family screening, and inform eligibility for research studies. Your cardiologist or gastroenterologist can order a targeted SGO1 test, often as part of a broader cardiomyopathy or dysmotility gene panel.
The K23E SGO1 mutation follows an autosomal‑dominant pattern, meaning each first‑degree relative has a 50 % chance of inheriting the variant. Both males and females are equally affected, and the mutation can be passed to each child regardless of sex.
Currently, therapy is symptomatic. Arrhythmias are managed with pacemaker implantation or anti‑arrhythmic drugs as needed, while intestinal dysmotility may be treated with prokinetic agents, dietary modifications, and, in severe cases, surgical interventions. Research into drugs that stabilize cohesin function is ongoing, but no approved disease‑modifying therapy exists yet.
Cardiac care typically includes regular ECGs, Holter monitoring, and echocardiograms every 6–12 months to watch for sinus node dysfunction or atrial arrhythmias. Gastrointestinal surveillance involves periodic motility studies (e.g., gastric emptying scans) and symptom‑driven imaging; some clinicians also recommend annual abdominal ultrasound to assess for structural changes.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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