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Updated: Jun 11, 2026

Simultaneous Mapping and Quantitation of Ribonucleotides in Human Mitochondrial DNA
12:35

Simultaneous Mapping and Quantitation of Ribonucleotides in Human Mitochondrial DNA

Published on: November 14, 2017

Inhibition of mitochondrial function reduces DNA repair in human mononuclear cells

Anat Gafter-Gvili1, Michal Herman, Yaacov Ori

  • 1Department of Hematology, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva, Israel.

Leukemia Research
|July 13, 2010
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Mitochondrial inhibitors suppressed DNA repair and double-stranded DNA damage. This suggests potential for enhanced cancer therapy by reducing mitochondrial function.

Area of Science:

  • Cellular Biology
  • Biochemistry
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Mitochondria supply ATP and calcium essential for DNA repair.
  • Mitochondria also generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can cause DNA damage.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine how inhibiting mitochondrial function impacts DNA repair processes.
  • Investigate the role of mitochondrial inhibitors in cellular DNA maintenance.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized five distinct mitochondrial inhibitors targeting the electron transport chain.
  • Assessed DNA repair in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells.
  • Measured spontaneous and hydrogen peroxide-induced DNA repair and percentage of double-stranded DNA.

Main Results:

  • All tested mitochondrial inhibitors reduced both spontaneous and H(2)O(2)-induced DNA repair.
  • The impact of inhibitors on double-stranded DNA levels varied, correlating partly with ROS reduction.

Conclusions:

  • Inhibiting mitochondrial function can suppress DNA repair mechanisms.
  • Mitochondrial inhibition may offer a strategy to improve the effectiveness and lower the toxicity of cancer therapies like radiation and chemotherapy.

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