Abstract
Since the characterisation of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in 1981 (l), interest in the potential role of mitochondria in human disease states has exponentially intensified. Our understanding of mitochondrial function has improved dramatically over the last decade (2), and with the identification of the first human pathogenetic mtDNA mutations in 1988 (3,4), a new class of diseases was born. As the prime energy source within the cell, mitochondria play a vital role in supporting a diverse range of cellular functions. Thus it is no surprise that any disruption to normal mitochondrial function can result in disease states, or that the nervous system with its high aerobic metabolic demands and limited capacity for re- pair is particularly susceptible. In addition to the study of diseases associated with mtDNA mutations, interest in recent years has also begun to focus on the role of mi- tochondria in a range of acquired degenerative diseases including Parkinson’s
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.