Groundbreaking research sheds light on mitochondrial DNA depletion syndrome

Mitochondrial DNA depletion syndrome (MTDPS) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by a marked decrease in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). This condition can cause symptoms including muscle weakness, fatigue, and neurological issues, particularly affecting the liver and brain in cases of hepatocerebral MTDPS. Mitochondrial diseases, which represent some of the most common types of metabolic disorders, can result in the failure of multiple organ systems. Currently, over 400 genes linked to these diseases have been identified. Notably, many of these genes are associated with the mitochondrial contact site and cristae organizing system (MICOS) complex, highlighting the complexity of the genetic factors at play.

In a notable study published in Liver International on November 07, 2024, researchers led by Professor Yasushi Okazaki from the Division of Diagnostics and Therapeutics of Intractable Diseases at Juntendo University, Japan, made important advancements in understanding MTDPS. The research team, including Dr. Kei Murayama, Dr. Yoshihito Kishita, and Dr. Ayumu Sugiura, utilized a combination of whole genome sequencing and RNA sequencing techniques to identify a specific variant in the MICOS10 gene in a patient with the disease. “This is the first report of MICOS10 variants in hepatocerebral MTDPS. Understanding how defects in this complex affect cristae formation and mitochondrial function could provide new insights into the molecular pathogenesis underlying this disease,” explains Prof. Okazaki.

The study focused on a young patient who presented with severe liver dysfunction, including cirrhosis and developmental delays. Despite undergoing a liver transplant, the patient continued to experience neurological symptoms. Laboratory tests revealed defects in the mitochondrial respiratory chain, alongside a significant reduction in mtDNA levels. When the mtDNA in the liver tissue removed during the transplant was quantified, it was found to be only 23.7% of the normal level, leading to a definitive diagnosis of MTDPS.

Further whole genome sequencing found two variants in the MICOS10 gene that likely explained the patient’s symptoms: one was a single nucleotide missense mutation, and the other was a deletion in large exon 1. Although both copies of the gene were present, only the copy with the missense mutation was active, as the exon 1 deletion prevented expression of the other copy. This limited expression from only one deleterious variant of MICOS10 likely disrupted mitochondrial function, contributing to the patient’s condition.

Functional studies conducted in patient-derived fibroblast cells showed that restoring MICOS10 expression improved mitochondrial respiration, evidenced by increased oxygen consumption, and rescued abnormalities of the cristae structures in patient’s fibroblasts. This research confirmed the crucial role of MICOS10 in maintaining mitochondrial structure and function.

The findings from this study represent a major step forward in the understanding of mitochondrial diseases. By illuminating the role of MICOS10, the research opens up potential new avenues for genetic testing and therapeutic development. Prof. Okazaki emphasized that “Clarifying genetic variants that were previously undetectable could greatly improve the efficiency of diagnosis for patients with mitochondrial disorders.”

These groundbreaking insights could unlock targeted treatments, offering hope for restoring mitochondrial function in affected patients. By deepening our understanding of MTDPS and highlighting the power of advanced genetic diagnostics, this research paves the way for a brighter future, bringing renewed optimism to those grappling with these complex disorders.