A mouse model has been developed.[4] This mouse model is characterized by a severe deficiency ofATR protein.[4] These mice have high levels of replicative stress andDNA damage. Adult Seckel mice display accelerated aging.[4] These findings are consistent with theDNA damage theory of aging.
It is believed to be caused by defects of genes onchromosome3 and18. One form of Seckel syndrome can be caused by mutation in the gene encoding theataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related protein (ATR) which maps to chromosome 3q22.1–q24. This gene is central in the cell's DNA damage response and repair mechanism.
^Jung M, Rai A, Wang L, Puttmann K, Kukreja K, Koh CJ (2018). "Nephrolithiasis in a 17-Year-Old Male With Seckel Syndrome and Horseshoe Kidneys: Case Report and Review of the Literature".Urology.120:241–243.doi:10.1016/j.urology.2018.05.023.PMID29894776.S2CID48353132.
^Kelana, Andreas Dhymas Dhyna Martha; Windiani, Gusti Ayu Trisna; Arimbawa, Made; Adnyana, Gusti Agung Ngurah Sugitha; Yuda, Made Darma; Murti, Ni Luh Sukma Pratiwi; Soetjiningsih, Soetjiningsih (2023-01-04)."Case of Seckel Syndrome in a 9-month-old Girl".Open Access Macedonian Journal of Medical Sciences.11 (C):6–10.doi:10.3889/oamjms.2023.10988.ISSN1857-9655.
^Seckel, H. P. G. Bird-headed Dwarfs: Studies in Developmental Anthropology Including Human Proportions. Springfield, Ill.: Charles C Thomas (pub.) 1960.
^Harper RG, Orti E, Baker RK (May 1967). "Bird-beaded dwarfs (Seckel's syndrome). A familial pattern of developmental, dental, skeletal, genital, and central nervous system anomalies".J. Pediatr.70 (5):799–804.doi:10.1016/S0022-3476(67)80334-2.PMID6022184.