AIM:To study mutations in the P-type ATPase (ATP7B) gene responsible for Wilson disease (WD) in the Eastern Chinese population, and the possible correlation of specific mutations with clinical characteristics. METHODS:Mutations of the ATP7B gene were sought by means of direct sequencing in 50 Eastern Chinese WD patients of Han ethnic origin. RESULTS:Tw o n o v e l m u t a t i o n s , A s p 9 6 G l y a n d Asp196Glu, were first identified. We also compared the characterization of mutations in ATP7B with the clinical findings, and a significant correlation with hepatic manifestations between patients carrying the Arg778Leu mutation and those without was found. CONCLUSION:Gene sequencing analysis was shown to have a high detection rate and accuracy. It may become the first priority in screening of WD patients.