Mitochondrial DNA polymorphisms and biogenesis genes in primary and metastatic uveal melanoma cell lines

Roles of mitochondrial genetics in cancer metastasis

The contributions of mitochondria to cancer have been recognized for decades. However, the focus on the metabolic role of mitochondria and the diminutive size of the mitochondrial genome compared to the nuclear genome have hindered discovery of the roles of mitochondrial genetics in cancer. This review summarizes recent data demonstrating the contributions of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy-number variants (CNVs), somatic mutations, and germline polymorphisms to cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis. The goal is to summarize accumulating data to establish a framework for exploring the contributions of mtDNA to neoplasia and metastasis.

Targeting mitochondria in dermatological therapy: Beyond oxidative damage and skin aging

INTRODUCTION

The analysis of the role of the mitochondria in oxidative damage and skin aging is a significant aspect of dermatological research. Mitochondria generate most reactive oxygen species (ROS); however, excessive ROS are cytotoxic and DNA-damaging and promote (photo-)aging. ROS also possesses key physiological and regulatory functions and mitochondrial dysfunction is prominent in several skin diseases including skin cancers. Although many standard dermatotherapeutics modulate mitochondrial function, dermatological therapy rarely targets the mitochondria. Accordingly, there is a rationale for "mitochondrial dermatology"-based approaches to be applied to therapeutic research.

AREAS COVERED

This paper examines the functions of mitochondria in cutaneous physiology beyond energy (ATP) and ROS production. Keratinocyte differentiation and epidermal barrier maintenance, appendage morphogenesis and homeostasis, photoaging and skin cancer are considered. Based on related PubMed search results, the paper evaluates thyroid hormones, glucocorticoids, Vitamin D3 derivatives, retinoids, cannabinoid receptor agonists, PPARγ agonists, thyrotropin, and thyrotropin-releasing hormone as instructive lead compounds. Moreover, the mitochondrial protein MPZL3 as a promising new drug target for future "mitochondrial dermatology" is highlighted.

EXPERT OPINION

Future dermatological therapeutic research should have a mitochondrial medicine emphasis. Focusing on selected lead agents, protein targets, in silico drug design, and model diseases will fertilize a mito-centric approach.