Mitochondrial abnormalities in muscle and other aging cells: classification, causes, and effects

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Published on: November 23, 2011

Salvatore DiMauro1, Kurenai Tanji, Eduardo Bonilla

  • 1Department of Neurology, Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons, 630 West 168th Street, New York, New York 10032, USA. sd12@columbia.edu

Muscle & Nerve
|October 29, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Mitochondrial DNA mutations and dysfunction are linked to aging in the brain and muscle. While mitochondria play a key role in aging, their exact contribution as cause or effect remains debated.

Area of Science:

  • Gerontology
  • Cell Biology
  • Neuroscience

Background:

  • Mitochondria and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) are implicated in aging.
  • The mitochondrial theory of aging proposes a cycle of mtDNA mutation, impaired function, and oxidative damage.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review evidence supporting or refuting the mitochondrial theory of aging in muscle and brain.
  • To explore the link between mitochondrial aging and neurodegenerative diseases.

Main Methods:

  • Review of morphological, biochemical, and molecular data.
  • Analysis of the proposed vicious circle in aging.
  • Brief review of mitochondrial aging and neurodegeneration.

Main Results:

  • Evidence for and against mtDNA mutation accumulation and ROS production in aging muscle and brain was considered.
  • Mitochondrial dysfunction is strongly implicated in the aging of muscle and brain tissues.

Conclusions:

  • Mitochondrial dysfunction is a significant factor in aging.
  • The precise role of mitochondria as a cause versus a consequence of aging requires further investigation.

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