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Mitochondria-Targeting microRNAs (mitomiRs): Potential Mediators of Environmental Mitoepigenetics in Mammalian

Vanessa Zak1, Jonathan LaMarre1

  • 1Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.

Biomolecules
|June 26, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Mitoepigenetics, the study of mitochondrial DNA modifications, is crucial for male fertility. Mitochondrial microRNAs (mitomiRs) show promise for diagnosing and treating male infertility linked to environmental factors.

Area of Science:

  • Mitoepigenetics research focusing on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and RNA modifications.
  • Exploration of epigenetic mechanisms influencing gene expression without altering DNA sequence.

Background:

  • Mitoepigenetics is a rapidly expanding field with significant implications for male mammalian fertility.
  • Environmental factors are increasingly recognized as contributors to male reproductive dysfunction.
  • Mitochondrial microRNAs (mitomiRs) are key players in regulating mitochondrial gene expression.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current literature on mitoepigenetic mechanisms and their impact on male fertility.
  • To highlight the role of mitomiRs in male reproductive health in model species and humans.
  • To explore the potential of mitoepigenetics for developing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of mitoepigenetic mechanisms and their connection to male fertility.
  • Focus on mitochondrial microRNAs (mitomiRs) and their regulatory functions.
  • Analysis of studies involving model organisms and human subjects.

Main Results:

  • Mitoepigenetic mechanisms, particularly mitomiRs, are implicated in male fertility.
  • MitomiRs modulate mitochondrial gene expression in response to environmental stressors.
  • Evidence suggests a link between environmental factors, mitoepigenetics, and male reproductive issues.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding mitoepigenetics offers potential for novel diagnostic biomarkers for male infertility.
  • Mitoepigenetics may lead to individualized therapeutic approaches for male reproductive disorders.
  • The stability and specificity of mitomiRs make them promising candidates for clinical applications.
Keywords:
environmental stressepigeneticsmale fertilitymicroRNAmitochondriamitoepigeneticsspermatogenesis

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