Mutations in the small heat shock proteins (Hsps) have been linked to a number of hereditary neuromuscular diseases, with mutations in Hsp22 (encoded by HSPB8) and Hsp27 (HSPB1; Accession No NG_008995) now known to be causative for Charcot Marie Tooth Disease Type 2 (CMT-2) and distal hereditary motor neuropathy (dHMN) (1–6), with mutations in αB crystalline (HSPB5) causative for myopathies (7). The gene discussed is HSPB1; the disease is distal hereditary motor neuropathy.