Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 15, 2026

Modeling Myotonic Dystrophy 1 in C2C12 Myoblast Cells
Published on: July 29, 2016
TK2 mutation presenting as indolent myopathy
Carmen Paradas1, Purificacion Gutiérrez Ríos, Eloy Rivas
1Unidad de Enfermedades Neuromusculares, Servicio de Neurología, Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain.
Abstract:
Recessive mutations in the TK2 gene typically cause fatal infantile mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) depletion syndromes (MDS).(1-3) However, the progression of weakness may vary,(4) as shown by recently described adult patients with late-onset myopathy.(5,6) To date, only 5 adult patients with TK2-related MDS have been reported. Herein, we describe a man who had several unusual features. Clinically, he was weak as a child but sought medical attention as an adult. At the molecular level, multiple mtDNA deletions in muscle were more prominent than mtDNA depletion.
Insights
Recessive TK2 gene mutations usually cause fatal infantile mitochondrial DNA depletion syndromes. This case highlights an adult male with late-onset myopathy and prominent muscle mtDNA deletions, not depletion, suggesting varied disease progression.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Neurology
Background:
- Recessive mutations in the Thymidine Kinase 2 (TK2) gene are a primary cause of fatal infantile mitochondrial DNA depletion syndromes (MDS).
- While typically presenting in infancy, some patients exhibit late-onset myopathy, indicating variable disease progression.
- Only five adult cases of TK2-related MDS have been documented previously.
Related Concept Videos
Alterations in Muscle Tone lll
Myasthenia Gravis ll: Pathophysiology
Myocarditis II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Disorders of the Skeletal Muscle
Musculoskeletal disorders
Musculoskeletal disorders involve injuries and conditions affecting the skeletal muscles and associated connective tissues. These disorders can arise from acute biomechanical stresses or chronic overuse and can occur across different age groups. Common injuries include sprains, fractures, and muscular strains, often resulting from...
Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy
