Why the lettuce mitochondrial genome is like a chopped salad
Research reveals plant mitochondrial DNA is a complex mixture of branching structures, ribbons, and rings, shuffling genes around in different combinations
Mitochondrial Dna
Articles tagged with Mitochondrial Dna
Genes reveal kinship between 3 victims of Mongol army in 1238 massacre
Researchers have confirmed genetic ties among three individuals buried together after a 13th-century massacre by the Mongol army, shedding new light on the tragic event. The DNA analysis reveals a grandmother, daughter, and grandson were part of the same family.
New clues on stem cell transplant rejection revealed in study
Scientists found that mutations in mitochondrial DNA can induce an immune response, leading to the rejection of stem cell transplants. The study used hybrid stem cells with nuclear and mitochondrial DNA from different sources and showed that even a single mitochondrial mutation can trigger an immune response.
Researchers can finally modify plant mitochondrial DNA
Researchers have successfully edited plant mitochondrial DNA for the first time, paving the way to address the current lack of mitochondrial genetic diversity in crops. This technique, called mitoTALENs, uses a single protein to locate and delete specific genes, potentially adding much-needed diversity to the food supply.
Millet farmers adopted barley agriculture and permanently settled the Tibetan Plateau
Researchers discovered that millet farmers from northern China introduced cold-tolerant barley to the plateau around 3600 years ago. This genetic legacy has contributed significantly to the current genetic landscape of Tibetans.
New sub-species of pilot whale identified in Pacific Ocean
Researchers discovered two distinct subspecies of short-finned pilot whales in the Indian and Pacific Oceans, separated by the eastern Pacific Ocean. The study, published in Molecular Ecology, used genetic analysis to verify the findings, revealing that continents may not have been as significant a barrier to this species' evolution.
Interplay between mitochondria and nucleus may have implications for new treatment
Researchers found that matching mitochondrial DNA to nuclear DNA could be important when selecting potential donors for mitochondrial donation treatment. They discovered that mitochondria are fine-tuned to the nucleus and may influence the likelihood of certain mutations being passed on.
How egg cells choose their best powerhouses to pass on
Researchers studied how egg cells in fruit flies choose the healthiest mitochondria to pass on. They found that mitochondrial selection is triggered by a drop in Mitofusin levels, allowing for the elimination of faulty mitochondria.
Environmental pollutants could impact cellular signs of aging
Researchers found that environmental pollutants can impact molecular hallmarks of aging, including mitochondrial DNA content and telomere length. Higher levels of certain pollutants were associated with decreased mitochondrial DNA content or shorter telomeres, suggesting a potential link between pollution and accelerated aging.
Simple sea anemones not so simple after all
New research reveals tube-dwelling anemones have largest mitochondrial genomes, with fragments arranged in unexpected ways and sizes varying between species. The discovery defies classic doughnut-shaped designs and raises questions about evolutionary pressures among ancient sea animals.
Gene behind long-recognized mitochondrial disease has highly varied effects
Researchers identified over 30 variations in the MT-ATP6 gene with diverse clinical symptoms and biochemical features. The study highlights the need for more precise clinical tests to determine treatment options for patients affected by mitochondrial disorders.
Differences in genes' geographic origin influence mitochondrial function
Researchers found that differences in genetic origins between mitochondrial and nuclear DNA can affect energy production by mitochondria. In populations with mixed ancestry, natural selection may guide the trajectory of mitochondria-related genes towards similar geographic origins.
Big change from small player -- Mitochondria alter body metabolism and gene expression
Researchers found that mitochondrial DNA influences cellular metabolism and susceptibility to metabolic diseases. Switching mitochondrial genetic backgrounds in mice showed significant impacts on adiposity, whole body metabolism, and nuclear gene expression.
NAD can restore mitochondrial function and energy production in MTDPS liver-like cells
Researchers at Medical University of South Carolina identified nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) as a compound that restores mitochondrial function and energy production in Mitochondrial DNA Depletion Syndromes (MTDPS) liver-like cells. NAD was found to increase ATP levels by activating a transcription cascade that results in inc...
Fruit fly study challenges theories on evolution and high-carb diets
Researchers found that fruit flies with a specific mitochondrial DNA mutation thrived on high-carbohydrate diets, while those without the mutation stagnated on protein-rich diets. The study suggests a potential link between this mutation and human health issues related to carbohydrate intake.
Ciprofloxacin has dramatic effects on the mitochondrial genome
Researchers at University of Eastern Finland found ciprofloxacin inhibits topoisomerase 2, impairing mitochondrial DNA replication and transcription. This leads to impaired energy production and cellular differentiation.
Mitochondrial diseases could be treated with gene therapy, study suggests
Researchers developed a genome editing tool to target and eliminate damaged mitochondrial DNA, resulting in improved mitochondrial function in mice. The treatment, known as mtZFN, could provide a practical route to treating patients with mitochondrial diseases.
Changes in mitochondrial DNA control how nuclear DNA mutations are expressed in cardiomyopathy
Researchers discovered that mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variants interact with nuclear DNA mutations to determine the severity of heart disease in mice. Different mtDNA variants conferred either worsened or protected heart damage, suggesting a key role for mtDNA in cardiomyopathy progression.
Fishing quotas upended by nuclear DNA analysis
A study published in Nature Scientific Reports found that nuclear DNA analysis can highlight genetic differences between sardine populations, contradicting previous conclusions based on mitochondrial DNA analysis. This new understanding has significant implications for fisheries management and conservation strategies.
Scarlet macaw DNA points to ancient breeding operation in Southwest
Researchers found that scarlet macaws sequenced from Chaco Canyon and Mimbres areas in New Mexico shared the same haplogroup, indicating a single breeding population. This contradicts previous theories that ancestral Puebloan people brought birds back from Mexico, as transporting adolescent birds would be logistically difficult.
Wild horses in Theodore Roosevelt National Park have mixed ancestry
Researchers found that feral horses in the park have a mix of genetic markers from different regions, including Native American horse traders and East Asia. The herd is highly inbred and lacks genetic diversity, highlighting the need for new blood to improve its health.
Scientists reverse aging-associated skin wrinkles and hair loss in a mouse model
A gene mutation causes wrinkled skin and hair loss; turning off that mutation restores the mouse to normal appearance. The study reveals an important role for mitochondria in skin health, with reversed mitochondrial dysfunction leading to restored smooth skin and thick fur.
Study demonstrates impact of temperature on mitochondrial DNA evolution
A new study by researchers at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University found that temperature shapes how mitochondrial DNA varies in nature. The study used fruit flies to demonstrate the selection of one mtDNA variant over another under different environmental temperatures.
Mighty mitochondria flex their DNA power to help nucleus run the cell
Scientists discovered that mitochondria and nuclear genomes co-evolved to independently cross-regulate each other. This understanding could lead to greater insights into aging and disease, as well as new treatments based on mitochondrial DNA.
Bowel disease study points to new therapies for lifelong conditions
Researchers discovered tiny DNA fragments, mtDNA, in patients' blood samples that are associated with disease flare-ups. These molecules can trigger an inflammatory response and damage to healthy tissues, causing symptoms of bowel diseases like Crohn's and ulcerative colitis.
Protect forest elephants to conserve ecosystems, not DNA
Forest elephant populations across Central Africa exhibit genetic similarity, highlighting the importance of conserving this critically endangered species. Conservation efforts can save many species by protecting one, as forest elephants play a vital role in maintaining plant diversity and ecosystem balance.
First genetic evidence of ongoing mating between 2 distinct species of guenon monkeys
A study by Florida Atlantic University researcher Kate Detwiler found that hybridization between red-tailed and blue guenon monkeys is common, with 15% of the population consisting of hybrids. The research suggests that social learning and environmental factors may contribute to this phenomenon.
DNA gets away: Scientists catch the rogue molecule that can trigger autoimmunity
A research team has discovered a critical moment when DNA escapes from the mitochondria during cell death, potentially triggering autoimmune diseases. This 'Great Escape' moment may one day prove crucial for understanding inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.
Digging deep into distinctly different DNA
The study found that mitochondrial DNA mutation rates differ across various tissues, particularly in reproductive cells, which could lead to devastating diseases if passed to future offspring. Researchers used a novel method to isolate mitochondria from specific cells, shedding light on the mechanisms regulating gene mutations.
New warning system discovered in the immune defense
Researchers at Linköping University have discovered a previously unknown warning system in the immune defense that triggers an alarm, sending signals to surrounding cells. This process involves the release of mitochondrial DNA strands by white blood cells in response to infections like bacteria and viruses.
New brainstem changes identified in Parkinson's disease
Researchers have found that patients with Parkinson's disease have more errors in mitochondrial DNA within the brainstem, leading to increased cell death. Surviving cells have higher copies of mitochondrial DNA, suggesting a new target for therapies.
Mitochondria DNA webs and immune response
Researchers discovered that human lymphocytes release extracellular mtDNA web structures in response to CpG and non-CpG oligodeoxynucleotides, rapidly signaling the presence of a threat. These findings suggest a previously unreported role for mtDNA in innate immune system signaling.
First DNA sequence from a single mitochondria
Researchers have successfully extracted and sequenced the DNA of a single mitochondrion, revealing vastly different sequences between individual mitochondria within a cell. This breakthrough may lead to improved diagnosis and treatment of neurological diseases, such as those caused by accumulated mitochondrial mutations with age.
Researchers find evidence of DNA damage in veterans with Gulf War illness
A study of mitochondrial DNA found higher levels of lesions and extra copies of genes in veterans with Gulf War illness, suggesting excess DNA damage. This supports the idea that mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to symptoms and persistence of GWI.
Newfoundland populated multiple times by distinct groups, DNA evidence shows
Research on mitochondrial DNA from ancient remains suggests that two distinct groups, Maritime Archaic and Beothuk, inhabited the island multiple times with a possible hiatus. The findings imply that Newfoundland's population history involves multiple independent arrivals by indigenous peoples.
Scientists discover novel mechanism that protects mitochondrial DNA
Scientists have identified a novel mechanism safeguarding mitochondrial DNA, which encodes for essential parts of cellular respiration machinery. The study reveals that an unusual enzyme called PrimPol can re-initiate replication after damage, helping to prevent double-strand breaks and mitochondrial dysfunction.
Mitochondrial DNA could predict risk for sudden cardiac death, heart disease
Researchers found that mitochondrial DNA copy number is a novel biomarker predicting cardiovascular disease risk, especially for sudden cardiac death. This could help physicians accurately predict life-threatening events and inform treatment decisions with statins.
A biosensor detects adulteration of horse in beef meat within 1 hour
Researchers at Universidad Complutense de Madrid developed a biosensor that can detect adulterated horse meat in beef within 1 hour, using mitochondrial DNA fragments. This technology offers improved selectivity and reliability compared to existing methods.
DNA sensor plays critical role in cancer immunotherapy via response to unexpected DNA form
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center report that tumors stressed by cancer immunotherapy release mitochondrial DNA into nearby immune cells, triggering a host alert system. This discovery highlights the critical role of cGAS as an innate immune sensor for DNA and its importance in bridging the body's two immune systems.
Altered mitochondria associated with increased autism risk
A recent study suggests that variations in mitochondrial DNA originating from ancient human migrations may play a key role in predisposition to autism spectrum disorders. Individuals with specific European haplogroups had significantly higher risks of ASD compared to others.
Accessing DNA in the cell's powerhouse to treat disease
A team from Kyoto University developed a synthetic compound that can bind to mitochondrial DNA, suppressing a gene associated with nerve and muscle disease. The compound, MITO-PIP, caused a 60% to 90% reduction in the expression of a key gene involved in mitochondrial metabolism.
DNA of early Neanderthal gives timeline for new modern human-related dispersal from Africa
The study suggests that a hominin migration out of Africa occurred between 470,000 and 220,000 years ago, introducing their mitochondrial DNA to the Neanderthal population. This event reconciles discrepancies in nuclear and mitochondrial DNA phylogenies, providing new insights into human evolution.
CHOP's Douglas Wallace receives Franklin Medal in Life Science from the Franklin Institute
Dr. Douglas C. Wallace received the Benjamin Franklin Medal in Life Science for his groundbreaking research on mitochondrial genetics. His work defined the genetics of DNA within mitochondria and reconstructed patterns of human evolution.
Team discovers a new invasive clam in the US
A new invasive Asian clam species has been discovered in the Illinois River near Marseilles, Illinois. The researchers used genetic tests to confirm its uniqueness, raising concerns about the impact on native clams and the ecosystem as a whole.
Unraveling the mystery of DNA attacks in cells' powerhouse could pave way for new cancer treatments
A new study has unravelled the mystery of how mitochondria can withstand attacks on their DNA from rogue molecules. The discovery could lead to new treatments for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases by boosting DNA repair capacity or selectively damaging mitochondria in cancer cells.
Human DNA uncovered in caves without bones
Scientists have discovered DNA from ancient humans in cave sediments lacking skeletal remains. The technique used has identified Neandertal and Denisovan DNA sequences, providing valuable insights into human evolutionary history.
How to protect cells from selfish mitochondrial DNA
Researchers at Lomonosov Moscow State University have discovered how to protect yeast cells from invasion by selfish mitochondrial DNA molecules. Using uncouplers, which decrease the efficiency of mitochondrial energy conversion, functional mtDNA outcompetes harmful mtDNA variants in a process called mitochondrial turnover.
Nuclear transfer of mitochondrial DNA in colon and rectal cancer
Researchers found somatic mitochondrial DNA inserts in colon and rectal cancer genomes, correlated with gene-rich segments and poorer patient survival. A novel Fiber-FISH technique rapidly maps mitochondrial DNA insertions in nuclear genomes.
Study reveals 10,000 years of genetic continuity in northwest North America
A new study of ancient DNA from northwest North America finds evidence of genetic continuity spanning over 10,000 years. The research suggests that indigenous groups living today in southern Alaska and British Columbia are descendants of the first humans to inhabit the region, supporting their oral traditions.
Getting closer to treatment for Parkinson's
A Norwegian study from the University of Bergen has identified key mechanisms behind Parkinson's disease, which may lead to future treatments. The research suggests that mitochondrial DNA damage is a primary cause of the disease, and that healthy brain cells can compensate for this damage by producing more DNA.
Roots of related genetic diseases found in cell powerhouses
Scientists have found the mechanisms behind a genetic change causing related diseases like Pearson's syndrome and Kearns-Sayre syndrome. The study reveals how errors in DNA replication result in large deletions of genetic material, leading to damage and mismanaged repair attempts.
New biomarker is higher in suicide attempters and associated with stress response
A new biomarker associated with an overactive stress system has been found in suicidal individuals, according to a study published in Translational Psychiatry. The biomarker, linked to higher cortisol levels, was discovered in cell-free blood plasma of patients who had attempted suicide.
New research provides key insight about mitochondrial replacement therapy
A new study published in Nature provides key insights into mitochondrial replacement therapy, a gene-therapy technique that aims to prevent the transmission of harmful mitochondrial gene mutations from mothers to their children. By selecting egg donors with compatible haplotypes, clinicians may achieve higher success rates for producin...
RIT professor wins grants from the Moore Foundation
RIT professor Moumita Das has won seed funding for her research on population dynamics of mitochondria in mammalian cells and molecular imaging of intercellular transport. Her work aims to understand the impact of mitochondrial DNA changes on human health conditions.
Turning back the aging clock
Researchers have developed a technique to remove mutated DNA from mitochondria, which could help slow or reverse aging. The study found that increasing mitophagy, a form of cellular quality control, can reduce the levels of mutant mtDNA in cells.
Stanford study identifies new biomarkers for Huntington's disease
Researchers at Stanford University have identified several biological markers that can measure the progression of Huntington's disease in non-neural tissues. The team found that levels of mitochondrial DNA were elevated in plasma samples from patients with the disease, and P110 treatment corrected these levels.
Study shows link between mitochondrial DNA and autism
Researchers at Cornell University have confirmed a genetic link between mitochondrial DNA and autism spectrum disorder in children. The study found that autistic children had more than twice as many harmful mtDNA mutations compared to their non-autistic siblings. This finding may lead to better diagnosis and treatment of children with ...
Autism spectrum disorder linked to mutations in some mitochondrial DNA
A study of 903 children with autism spectrum disorder found that they have more harmful mitochondrial DNA mutations than their unaffected siblings. These mutations can be inherited from the mother or result from spontaneous mutation during development, increasing the risk of neurological and developmental problems.
New discovery in genetic research could lead to treatments for mitochondrial diseases
Scientists have created embryos with 'heteroplasmy,' a presence of both maternal and paternal mitochondrial DNA, allowing them to study potential treatments for mitochondrial diseases. Researchers found that inhibiting two proteins can prevent the removal of paternal mitochondrial DNA from embryos.
Desert elephants pass on knowledge -- not mutations -- to survive
Researchers found that Namibian desert elephants share the same DNA as African savanna elephants due to their high learning capacity and long-distance migrations. They possess unique survival skills, including sand-wetting and water conservation techniques.