Investigation of cytocrom c oxidase gene subunits expression on the Multiple sclerosis

Naeimeh Safavizadeh1, Seyed Ali Rahmani, Mohamad Zaefizadeh

  • 1Department of Biology, Ahar Branch, IAU university, Ahar, Iran.

Abstract

Insights

Multiple sclerosis (MS) patients show reduced expression of the COX5B gene, a key component of mitochondrial energy production. However, COX2 gene expression remained unchanged, suggesting specific mitochondrial gene dysregulation in MS.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Genetics
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system, causing myelin destruction and axonal atrophy.
  • Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to MS pathogenesis.
  • Mitochondrial dysfunction, including reduced cytochrome c oxidase (COX) complex activity and gene expression, is implicated in MS cortical tissue.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the expression levels of COX5B and COX2 genes in the brain tissue of MS patients.
  • To compare gene expression patterns between MS patients and healthy individuals.
  • To explore the role of mitochondrial gene expression in MS pathology.

Main Methods:

  • Gene expression analysis using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).
  • Quantification of COX5B, COX2, and reference gene (ß-actin) expression levels.
  • Statistical analysis using independent sample t-test.

Main Results:

  • Significant reduction in COX5B gene expression was observed in MS patients compared to normal subjects (P < -0.05).
  • No significant difference in COX2 gene expression was found between MS patients and normal subjects.
  • These findings indicate differential regulation of mitochondrial electron transport chain genes in MS.

Conclusions:

  • Down-regulation of COX5B suggests impaired mitochondrial electron transport chain function in MS.
  • The results support the hypothesis that mitochondrial gene expression impairment contributes to hypoxia-like tissue injury in MS.
  • Specific mitochondrial genes, like COX5B, may serve as potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets in MS.