Two copies of mthmg1, encoding a novel mitochondrial HMG-like protein, delay accumulation of mitochondrial DNA deletions in Podospora anserina.

ABSTRACT: In the filamentous fungus Podospora anserina, two degenerative processes which result in growth arrest are associated with mitochondrial genome (mitochondrial DNA [mtDNA]) instability. Senescence is correlated with mtDNA rearrangements and amplification of specific regions (senDNAs). Premature death syndrome is characterized by the accumulation of specific mtDNA deletions. This accumulation is due to indirect effects of the AS1-4 mutation, which alters a cytosolic ribosomal protein gene. The mthmg1 gene has been identified as a double-copy suppressor of premature death. It greatly delays premature death and the accumulation of deletions when it is present in two copies in an ASI-4 context. The duplication of mthmg1 has no significant effect on the wild-type life span or on senDNA patterns.

SUBMITTER: Dequard-Chablat M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC118004 | biostudies-literature | 2002 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature