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Changes of mitochondria in atherosclerosis: possible determinant in the pathogenesis of the disease

Igor A Sobenin1, Margarita A Sazonova, Anton Y Postnov

  • 1Russian Cardiology Research and Production Complex, 121552 Moscow, Russia.

Atherosclerosis
|February 12, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Somatic mitochondrial DNA mutations are linked to atherosclerosis. Four specific mutations showed higher prevalence in atherosclerotic plaques, suggesting their role in the disease and potential as biomarkers.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Biology
  • Genetics
  • Mitochondrial Medicine

Background:

  • Mitochondrial ultrastructure varies in human aortic atherosclerotic lesions.
  • This variability suggests somatic mutations in the mitochondrial genome may influence atherosclerosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between specific mitochondrial DNA mutations and atherosclerosis.
  • To compare heteroplasmy levels of known mitochondrial mutations in atherosclerotic plaques versus normal aortic intima.

Main Methods:

  • Analyzed aortic intima and lipofibrous plaque homogenates from 12 male aortas.
  • Quantified heteroplasmy levels for mitochondrial mutations A1555G, C3256T, T3336T, G12315A, G14459A, and G15059A.

Main Results:

  • Four mitochondrial mutations (A1555G, C3256T, G12315A, G15059A) were significantly more prevalent in lipofibrous plaques.
  • These mutations showed higher mean heteroplasmy values in atherosclerotic lesions compared to non-atherosclerotic intima.

Conclusions:

  • Somatic mutations in the mitochondrial genome are associated with atherosclerosis.
  • Mitochondrial DNA heteroplasmy may serve as a biomarker for atherogenesis, warranting further research.

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