Mitochondrial myopathy is a group of conditions caused by mitochondrial disorders that affect the muscles due to the lack of energy. Symptoms include muscle weakness, strokes, seizures, and heart problems. There is no cure, but supportive care can help manage symptoms. Gene therapy may be a future treatment. Mitochondrial myopathy is an umbrella term used […]
Mitochondrial membranes can refer to the inner or outer membrane of a mitochondrial cell. Eukaryotes have mitochondria responsible for producing ATP through aerobic respiration. The inner membrane forms cristae, while the outer membrane acts as a filter. The cristae have a larger surface area for enzyme production, providing more energy for the cell. For purposes […]
Mitochondrial encephalopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke syndrome (MELAS) is caused by mitochondrial DNA mutations, leading to insufficient energy production and multisystem problems. Symptoms can affect the central nervous, cardiac, and skeletal muscle systems, as well as the pancreas, liver, and kidneys. Diagnosis involves imaging studies, blood and spinal fluid tests, and cell studies, and treatment […]
Mitochondrial Eve is the most recent matrilineal common ancestor of all living humans, who lived in East Africa around 140,000 years ago. Tests based on mitochondrial DNA estimate when she lived and how different human lineages are related. She wasn’t the only human at the time, but represents the person from whom all living humans […]
Mitochondrial DNA is found in the mitochondria and is believed to have originated from ancient bacteria. It is smaller than nuclear DNA and only undergoes mutation, making it a useful genetic marker for studying human ancestry and migration patterns. Analysis of mitochondrial DNA supports the Out-of-Africa theory and rules out the multiregional hypothesis. Mitochondrial DNA […]
Gerontology studies aging processes and effects, including the role of mitochondria in cell division, signaling, and death. Mitochondria produce energy by breaking down food molecules, but their DNA lacks protection and is vulnerable to free radicals. Dysfunctional mitochondria affect cell division and programmed cell death. Faulty cell signaling due to prolonged mitochondrial damage can cause […]
Mitochondrial DNA analysis can provide evidential results and reveal lineage through a person’s maternal line, making it valuable in solving cold cases. It is more abundant and less likely to degrade than nuclear DNA, and can be used to identify missing persons or unidentified remains. It has been used to identify historical figures such as […]
