In this episode, we explore the key clinical features of HSPB8 Myopathy - an ultra-rare, autosomal dominant, progressive muscle-wasting condition. With fewer than 30 documented cases, awareness among clinicians is limited. We discuss when to suspect HSPB8 Myopathy, what signs to look for, and why genetic testing is essential for diagnosis.

If you're a healthcare professional working with patients experiencing progressive weakness, frequent falls, foot drop, or balance issues, especially in early to mid-adulthood, this episode is for you.

How can a small heat shock protein cause big problems in muscle and nerve cells?

This episode explores HSPB8, a key player in chaperone-assisted selective autophagy (CASA), which helps clear misfolded and damaged proteins. What neuromuscular disorders are linked to HSPB8 mutations? How do specific variants — from missense to frameshift — give rise to distal hereditary motor neuropathy (dHMN), Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type 2L (CMT2L), and myopathy with rimmed vacuoles? We break down the toxic gain-of-function mechanisms driving disease and highlight emerging therapeutic strategies, from small molecules to RNA-based approaches. Based on the latest review by Professor Hebatallah R. Rashed, Dr Samir R. Nath, and Professor Margherita Milone in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, this episode brings you cutting-edge insights into HSPB8 biology and pathogenesis.

Episode 2 – Introduction to HSPB8 Myopathy: What You Need to Know

In this episode, we break down HSPB8 Myopathy, a rare genetic condition that causes progressive muscle weakness and degeneration. We’ll explore how mutations in the HSPB8 gene lead to the formation of rimmed vacuoles in muscle fibers, and why genetic testing is so important for diagnosing the condition. Whether you're affected by the condition, a clinician, or a researcher, this episode will provide a clear understanding of the disease and its genetic basis.