Atp7b, a gene encoding a copper-transporting P-type ATPase, is predominantly expressed in the liver. It plays a crucial role in copper metabolism, being involved in the intracellular trafficking of copper in hepatocytes [6]. Mutations in this gene are associated with Wilson's disease, an autosomal recessive disorder of copper metabolism [1,2,3,4,5,7,8].

In a large cohort of Chinese patients with Wilson's disease, 161 non-synonymous variants in Atp7b were detected, with 58 being novel. Ninety percent of these patients could be genetically diagnosed with two or more 'pathogenic' or 'likely pathogenic' variants [1]. Different functional properties of Atp7b variants associated with Wilson's disease were analyzed, showing that they disrupt the protein's transport activity, mislocalize it, and reduce its stability [2]. The penetrance of Atp7b variants was studied, suggesting that differences in penetrance can explain the discrepancy between reported epidemiological and genetic prevalences of Wilson's disease [3].

In conclusion, Atp7b is essential for copper metabolism in the liver. Its dysfunction due to genetic variants is strongly linked to Wilson's disease. Studies on Atp7b variants help in understanding the genotype-phenotype correlation, disease pathogenesis, and contribute to early diagnosis and individualized treatment of Wilson's disease [1,2,3].