Mitochondrial DNA Mutations as a Factor in the Heritability of Atherosclerosis and Other Diseases

This review discusses the possibility of inheritance of some diseases through mutations in mitochondrial DNA. These are examples of many mitochondrial diseases that can be caused by mutations in mitochondrial DNA. Symptoms and severity can vary widely depending on the specific mutation and affected tissues. An association between certain mutations in the mitochondrial genome and cancer was reported. In other studies of 2-4 generations in each family, we found that mitochondrial mutations associated with atherosclerosis are inherited. This may at least partially explain the inheritance of predisposition to atherosclerotic disease by maternal line. Furthermore, to prove the important role of mitochondrial mutations in the development of atherosclerotic manifestations at the cellular level, we developed a technique for editing the mitochondrial genome. A recent article described how one of the pro-atherogenic mutations, namely m.15059G>A, was eliminated from such monocyte-derived cells using the technique we developed. Elimination of this mutation resulted in the restoration to normal levels of initially defective mitophagy and impaired inflammatory response. These data strongly suggest that mitochondrial mutations are closely associated with the development of atherosclerotic lesions. Considering that they are inherited, it can be assumed that, at least partly, the genetic predisposition to atherosclerotic diseases is transmitted from mother to offspring. Thus, despite the small size of mitochondrial DNA, its mutations may play a role in the pathogenesis of diseases. Further study of their role will make it possible to consider mitochondrial mutations as promising diagnostic markers and disorders caused by mutations as pharmacological targets.