Study Reveals Maternal Mitochondria's Role in Energy Levels and Health

New research highlights the exclusive inheritance of mitochondrial DNA from mothers and its potential impact on mitochondrial disorders.

Mitochondria, the cell's energy producers, contain DNA solely inherited from mothers, according to a study by the University of Colorado Boulder
The process of paternal mitochondria elimination (PME) is crucial; failure to clear paternal mitochondria can lead to severe energy deficits.
Experiments on C. elegans worms showed that delaying PME reduced ATP levels, leading to cognitive and reproductive issues.
Vitamin K2, specifically MK-4, was found to restore normal energy levels and improve function in affected worms, suggesting potential human applications.
While rare, traces of paternal mitochondrial DNA have been found in humans, potentially linking PME delays to hard-to-diagnose diseases.