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Updated: Dec 9, 2025

Genotyping Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in the Mitochondrial Genome by Pyrosequencing
Published on: February 10, 2023
The mitochondrial DNA variant m.9032T > C in MT-ATP6 encoding p.(Leu169Pro) causes a complex mitochondrial
Kaz M Knight1, Emily Shelkowitz1, Austin A Larson1
1Section of Clinical Genetics and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.
Abstract:
Diagnosing complex V deficiencies caused by new variants in mitochondrial DNA is challenging due to the rarity, phenotypic diversity, and limited functional assessments. We describe a child with the m.9032T > C variant in MT-ATP6 encoding p.(Leu169Pro), with primary presentation of microcephaly, ataxia, hearing loss, and lactic acidosis. Functional studies reveal abnormal fragment F1 of complex V on blue native gel electrophoresis. Respirometry showed excessively tight coupling through complex V depressing oxygen consumption upon ADP stimulation and an excessive increase following uncoupling, in the presence of upregulation of mitochondrial biogenesis. These data add evidence about pathogenicity and functional impact of this variant.
Insights
Diagnosing mitochondrial disease is hard. This study shows a new MT-ATP6 variant causes complex V deficiency, leading to severe symptoms in a child.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variants can cause complex V deficiencies, leading to severe clinical phenotypes.
- Diagnosing these rare conditions is challenging due to limited functional assessments and diverse symptoms.
Observation:
- A child presented with microcephaly, ataxia, hearing loss, and lactic acidosis.
- Genetic analysis identified a novel m.9032T>C variant in the MT-ATP6 gene, encoding p.(Leu169Pro).
Findings:
- Functional studies revealed an abnormal complex V fragment on blue native gel electrophoresis.
- Respirometry demonstrated excessively tight coupling of complex V, impairing oxygen consumption and showing an abnormal response to uncoupling, despite upregulated mitochondrial biogenesis.
Implications:
- This variant is pathogenic and impacts complex V function.
- Understanding the functional consequences of novel mtDNA variants is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management of mitochondrial disorders.
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