The mtDNA mutation spectrum in the PolG mutator mouse reveals germline and somatic selection.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) codes for products necessary for electron transport and mitochondrial gene translation. mtDNA mutations can lead to human disease and influence organismal fitness. The PolG mutator mouse lacks mtDNA proofreading function and rapidly accumulates mtDNA mutations, making it a model for examining the causes and consequences of mitochondrial mutations. Premature aging in PolG mice and their physiology have been examined in depth, but the location, frequency, and diversity of their mtDNA mutations remain understudied. Identifying the locations and spectra of mtDNA mutations in PolG mice can shed light on how selection shapes mtDNA, both within and across organisms.

Results

Here, we characterized somatic and germline mtDNA mutations in brain and

SUBMITTER: Maclaine KD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8620558 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature