The
mitochondrion is the only eukaryotic organelle with its semi-autonomously
controlled genome. The minuscule nature of this genome does not undermine the
importance of its products in cellular functions. This double-stranded circular
genome sustains numerous mutations that have been useful to molecular
anthropologists in phylogenetic studies. Some of the mutations sustained by
this genome are rather pathogenic, being involved in a wide spectrum of human
diseases.
In recent times, the importance of mitochondrial mutations in cancer
is being established. However, there are still “dark or enigmatic” spots in our
knowledge in regard to making an attempt to explain various mitochondrial
pathologies. The recent uncovering of novel and, possibly coding fusion genes,
as well as noncoding transcripts should usher in a new era of knowledge about
this genome. The importance of these novel transcripts in diagnostics and
pharmaceutical targeting in various diseases awaits further discovery and
validation.
The
eukaryotic cell established a symbiotic relationship with the mitochondrion, a
prokaryotic cell, in order to enhance energy production essential for its
normal cellular functions. This relationship has been very successful as
evidenced in the inter-relationships between these two primitive cells. Despite
this interdependency, there is a level of autonomy in their genetic regulation.Read More....