Polymorphisms in the mitochondrial DNA control region and frailty in older adults.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Mitochondria contribute to the dynamics of cellular metabolism, the production of reactive oxygen species, and apoptotic pathways. Consequently, mitochondrial function has been hypothesized to influence functional decline and vulnerability to disease in later life. Mitochondrial genetic variation may contribute to altered susceptibility to the frailty syndrome in older adults.

Methodology/principal findings

To assess potential mitochondrial genetic contributions to the likelihood of frailty, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variation was compared in frail and non-frail older adults. Associations of selected SNPs with a muscle strength phenotype were also explored. Participants were selected from the Cardiovascular Health Study (CHS), a population-based observational stud

SUBMITTER: Moore AZ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2883558 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature