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Nogueira C, Pereira C, Silva L, Laranjeira M, Lopes A, Neiva R, Rodrigues E, Campos T, Martins E, Bandeira A, Coelho M, Magalhães M, Damásio J, Gaspar A, Janeiro P, Gomes AL, Ferreira AC, Jacinto S, Vieira JP, Diogo L, Santos H, Mendonça C, Vilarinho L. The genetic landscape of mitochondrial diseases in the next-generation sequencing era: a Portuguese cohort study. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1331351. [PMID: 38465286 PMCID: PMC10920333 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1331351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Rare disorders that are genetically and clinically heterogeneous, such as mitochondrial diseases (MDs), have a challenging diagnosis. Nuclear genes codify most proteins involved in mitochondrial biogenesis, despite all mitochondria having their own DNA. The development of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies has revolutionized the understanding of many genes involved in the pathogenesis of MDs. In this new genetic era, using the NGS approach, we aimed to identify the genetic etiology for a suspected MD in a cohort of 450 Portuguese patients. Methods: We examined 450 patients using a combined NGS strategy, starting with the analysis of a targeted mitochondrial panel of 213 nuclear genes, and then proceeding to analyze the whole mitochondrial DNA. Results and Discussion: In this study, we identified disease-related variants in 134 (30%) analyzed patients, 88 with nuclear DNA (nDNA) and 46 with mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variants, most of them being pediatric patients (66%), of which 77% were identified in nDNA and 23% in mtDNA. The molecular analysis of this cohort revealed 72 already described pathogenic and 20 novel, probably pathogenic, variants, as well as 62 variants of unknown significance. For this cohort of patients with suspected MDs, the use of a customized gene panel provided a molecular diagnosis in a timely and cost-effective manner. Patients who cannot be diagnosed after this initial approach will be further selected for whole-exome sequencing. Conclusion: As a national laboratory for the study and research of MDs, we demonstrated the power of NGS to achieve a molecular etiology, expanding the mutational spectrum and proposing accurate genetic counseling in this group of heterogeneous diseases without therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. Nogueira
- Research & Development Unit, Human Genetics Department, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Lisbon, Portugal
- Newborn Screening, Metabolism & Genetics Unit, Human Genetics Department, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - C. Pereira
- Newborn Screening, Metabolism & Genetics Unit, Human Genetics Department, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - L. Silva
- Research & Development Unit, Human Genetics Department, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Lisbon, Portugal
- Newborn Screening, Metabolism & Genetics Unit, Human Genetics Department, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Mateus Laranjeira
- Research & Development Unit, Human Genetics Department, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - A. Lopes
- Newborn Screening, Metabolism & Genetics Unit, Human Genetics Department, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - R. Neiva
- Newborn Screening, Metabolism & Genetics Unit, Human Genetics Department, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - E. Rodrigues
- Inherited Metabolic Diseases Reference Centre, São João Hospital University Centre, Porto, Portugal
| | - T. Campos
- Inherited Metabolic Diseases Reference Centre, São João Hospital University Centre, Porto, Portugal
| | - E. Martins
- Inherited Metabolic Diseases Reference Centre, Santo António Hospital University Centre, Porto, Portugal
| | - A. Bandeira
- Inherited Metabolic Diseases Reference Centre, Santo António Hospital University Centre, Porto, Portugal
| | - M. Coelho
- Inherited Metabolic Diseases Reference Centre, Santo António Hospital University Centre, Porto, Portugal
| | - M. Magalhães
- Neurology Department, Santo António Hospital University Centre, Porto, Portugal
| | - J. Damásio
- Neurology Department, Santo António Hospital University Centre, Porto, Portugal
| | - A. Gaspar
- Inherited Metabolic Diseases Reference Centre, Lisboa Norte Hospital University Centre, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - P Janeiro
- Inherited Metabolic Diseases Reference Centre, Lisboa Norte Hospital University Centre, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - A. Levy Gomes
- Neurology Department, Lisboa Norte Hospital University Centre, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - A. C. Ferreira
- Inherited Metabolic Diseases Reference Centre, Lisboa Central Hospital Centre, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - S. Jacinto
- Inherited Metabolic Diseases Reference Centre, Lisboa Central Hospital Centre, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - J. P. Vieira
- Inherited Metabolic Diseases Reference Centre, Lisboa Central Hospital Centre, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - L. Diogo
- Inherited Metabolic Diseases Reference Centre, Coimbra Hospital and University Centre, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - H. Santos
- Inherited Metabolic Diseases Reference Centre, Vila Nova de Gaia Hospital Centre, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
| | - C. Mendonça
- Pediatric Department, Faro Hospital and University Centre, Faro, Portugal
| | - L. Vilarinho
- Research & Development Unit, Human Genetics Department, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Lisbon, Portugal
- Newborn Screening, Metabolism & Genetics Unit, Human Genetics Department, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Lisbon, Portugal
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Abstract
Mitochondrial diseases require customized approaches for reproductive counseling, addressing differences in recurrence risks and reproductive options. The majority of mitochondrial diseases is caused by mutations in nuclear genes and segregate in a Mendelian way. Prenatal diagnosis (PND) or preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) are available to prevent the birth of another severely affected child. In at least 15%-25% of cases, mitochondrial diseases are caused by mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations, which can occur de novo (25%) or be maternally inherited. For de novo mtDNA mutations, the recurrence risk is low and PND can be offered for reassurance. For maternally inherited, heteroplasmic mtDNA mutations, the recurrence risk is often unpredictable, due to the mitochondrial bottleneck. PND for mtDNA mutations is technically possible, but often not applicable given limitations in predicting the phenotype. Another option for preventing the transmission of mtDNA diseases is PGT. Embryos with mutant load below the expression threshold are being transferred. Oocyte donation is another safe option to prevent the transmission of mtDNA disease to a future child for couples who reject PGT. Recently, mitochondrial replacement therapy (MRT) became available for clinical application as an alternative to prevent the transmission of heteroplasmic and homoplasmic mtDNA mutations.
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Genetic testing for mitochondrial disease: the United Kingdom best practice guidelines. Eur J Hum Genet 2023; 31:148-163. [PMID: 36513735 PMCID: PMC9905091 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-022-01249-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary mitochondrial disease describes a diverse group of neuro-metabolic disorders characterised by impaired oxidative phosphorylation. Diagnosis is challenging; >350 genes, both nuclear and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) encoded, are known to cause mitochondrial disease, leading to all possible inheritance patterns and further complicated by heteroplasmy of the multicopy mitochondrial genome. Technological advances, particularly next-generation sequencing, have driven a shift in diagnostic practice from 'biopsy first' to genome-wide analyses of blood and/or urine DNA. This has led to the need for a reference framework for laboratories involved in mitochondrial genetic testing to facilitate a consistent high-quality service. In the United Kingdom, consensus guidelines have been prepared by a working group of Clinical Scientists from the NHS Highly Specialised Service followed by national laboratory consultation. These guidelines summarise current recommended technologies and methodologies for the analysis of mtDNA and nuclear-encoded genes in patients with suspected mitochondrial disease. Genetic testing strategies for diagnosis, family testing and reproductive options including prenatal diagnosis are outlined. Importantly, recommendations for the minimum levels of mtDNA testing for the most common referral reasons are included, as well as guidance on appropriate referrals and information on the minimal appropriate gene content of panels when analysing nuclear mitochondrial genes. Finally, variant interpretation and recommendations for reporting of results are discussed, focussing particularly on the challenges of interpreting and reporting mtDNA variants.
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Burgstaller JP, Chiaratti MR. Mitochondrial Inheritance Following Nuclear Transfer: From Cloned Animals to Patients with Mitochondrial Disease. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2647:83-104. [PMID: 37041330 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3064-8_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondria are indispensable power plants of eukaryotic cells that also act as a major biochemical hub. As such, mitochondrial dysfunction, which can originate from mutations in the mitochondrial genome (mtDNA), may impair organism fitness and lead to severe diseases in humans. MtDNA is a multi-copy, highly polymorphic genome that is uniparentally transmitted through the maternal line. Several mechanisms act in the germline to counteract heteroplasmy (i.e., coexistence of two or more mtDNA variants) and prevent expansion of mtDNA mutations. However, reproductive biotechnologies such as cloning by nuclear transfer can disrupt mtDNA inheritance, resulting in new genetic combinations that may be unstable and have physiological consequences. Here, we review the current understanding of mitochondrial inheritance, with emphasis on its pattern in animals and human embryos generated by nuclear transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jörg P Burgstaller
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Marcos R Chiaratti
- Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil.
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5
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Abstract
Mitochondrial optic neuropathies have a leading role in the field of mitochondrial medicine ever since 1988, when the first mutation in mitochondrial DNA was associated with Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON). Autosomal dominant optic atrophy (DOA) was subsequently associated in 2000 with mutations in the nuclear DNA affecting the OPA1 gene. LHON and DOA are both characterized by selective neurodegeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) triggered by mitochondrial dysfunction. This is centered on respiratory complex I impairment in LHON and defective mitochondrial dynamics in OPA1-related DOA, leading to distinct clinical phenotypes. LHON is a subacute, rapid, severe loss of central vision involving both eyes within weeks or months, with age of onset between 15 and 35 years old. DOA is a more slowly progressive optic neuropathy, usually apparent in early childhood. LHON is characterized by marked incomplete penetrance and a clear male predilection. The introduction of next-generation sequencing has greatly expanded the genetic causes for other rare forms of mitochondrial optic neuropathies, including recessive and X-linked, further emphasizing the exquisite sensitivity of RGCs to compromised mitochondrial function. All forms of mitochondrial optic neuropathies, including LHON and DOA, can manifest either as pure optic atrophy or as a more severe multisystemic syndrome. Mitochondrial optic neuropathies are currently at the forefront of a number of therapeutic programs, including gene therapy, with idebenone being the only approved drug for a mitochondrial disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerio Carelli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; IRCCS Istituto di Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Programma di Neurogenetica, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Chiara La Morgia
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; IRCCS Istituto di Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Programma di Neurogenetica, Bologna, Italy
| | - Patrick Yu-Wai-Man
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair and MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Cambridge Eye Unit, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom; Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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6
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Ng YS, Lim AZ, Panagiotou G, Turnbull DM, Walker M. Endocrine Manifestations and New Developments in Mitochondrial Disease. Endocr Rev 2022; 43:583-609. [PMID: 35552684 PMCID: PMC9113134 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnab036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondrial diseases are a group of common inherited diseases causing disruption of oxidative phosphorylation. Some patients with mitochondrial disease have endocrine manifestations, with diabetes mellitus being predominant but also include hypogonadism, hypoadrenalism, and hypoparathyroidism. There have been major developments in mitochondrial disease over the past decade that have major implications for all patients. The collection of large cohorts of patients has better defined the phenotype of mitochondrial diseases and the majority of patients with endocrine abnormalities have involvement of several other systems. This means that patients with mitochondrial disease and endocrine manifestations need specialist follow-up because some of the other manifestations, such as stroke-like episodes and cardiomyopathy, are potentially life threatening. Also, the development and follow-up of large cohorts of patients means that there are clinical guidelines for the management of patients with mitochondrial disease. There is also considerable research activity to identify novel therapies for the treatment of mitochondrial disease. The revolution in genetics, with the introduction of next-generation sequencing, has made genetic testing more available and establishing a precise genetic diagnosis is important because it will affect the risk for involvement for different organ systems. Establishing a genetic diagnosis is also crucial because important reproductive options have been developed that will prevent the transmission of mitochondrial disease because of mitochondrial DNA variants to the next generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Shiau Ng
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- NHS Highly Specialised Service for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Albert Zishen Lim
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- NHS Highly Specialised Service for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Grigorios Panagiotou
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Doug M Turnbull
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- NHS Highly Specialised Service for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Mark Walker
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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7
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Schon KR, Horvath R, Wei W, Calabrese C, Tucci A, Ibañez K, Ratnaike T, Pitceathly RDS, Bugiardini E, Quinlivan R, Hanna MG, Clement E, Ashton E, Sayer JA, Brennan P, Josifova D, Izatt L, Fratter C, Nesbitt V, Barrett T, McMullen DJ, Smith A, Deshpande C, Smithson SF, Festenstein R, Canham N, Caulfield M, Houlden H, Rahman S, Chinnery PF. Use of whole genome sequencing to determine genetic basis of suspected mitochondrial disorders: cohort study. BMJ 2021; 375:e066288. [PMID: 34732400 PMCID: PMC8565085 DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2021-066288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether whole genome sequencing can be used to define the molecular basis of suspected mitochondrial disease. DESIGN Cohort study. SETTING National Health Service, England, including secondary and tertiary care. PARTICIPANTS 345 patients with suspected mitochondrial disorders recruited to the 100 000 Genomes Project in England between 2015 and 2018. INTERVENTION Short read whole genome sequencing was performed. Nuclear variants were prioritised on the basis of gene panels chosen according to phenotypes, ClinVar pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants, and the top 10 prioritised variants from Exomiser. Mitochondrial DNA variants were called using an in-house pipeline and compared with a list of pathogenic variants. Copy number variants and short tandem repeats for 13 neurological disorders were also analysed. American College of Medical Genetics guidelines were followed for classification of variants. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Definite or probable genetic diagnosis. RESULTS A definite or probable genetic diagnosis was identified in 98/319 (31%) families, with an additional 6 (2%) possible diagnoses. Fourteen of the diagnoses (4% of the 319 families) explained only part of the clinical features. A total of 95 different genes were implicated. Of 104 families given a diagnosis, 39 (38%) had a mitochondrial diagnosis and 65 (63%) had a non-mitochondrial diagnosis. CONCLUSION Whole genome sequencing is a useful diagnostic test in patients with suspected mitochondrial disorders, yielding a diagnosis in a further 31% after exclusion of common causes. Most diagnoses were non-mitochondrial disorders and included developmental disorders with intellectual disability, epileptic encephalopathies, other metabolic disorders, cardiomyopathies, and leukodystrophies. These would have been missed if a targeted approach was taken, and some have specific treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine R Schon
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- East Anglian Medical Genetics Service, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Rita Horvath
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Wei Wei
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Claudia Calabrese
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Arianna Tucci
- William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Kristina Ibañez
- William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Thiloka Ratnaike
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Robert D S Pitceathly
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology and The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | - Enrico Bugiardini
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology and The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | - Rosaline Quinlivan
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology and The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | - Michael G Hanna
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology and The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | - Emma Clement
- Department of Clinical Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Emma Ashton
- NHS North Thames Genomic Laboratory Hub, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - John A Sayer
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Paul Brennan
- Northern Genetics Service, Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, International Centre for Life, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Dragana Josifova
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Louise Izatt
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Carl Fratter
- NHS Highly Specialised Services for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders - Oxford Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Victoria Nesbitt
- NHS Highly Specialised Services for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders - Oxford Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Timothy Barrett
- Central and South Genome Medicine Service Alliance and Genomics Laboratory Hub, Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Dominic J McMullen
- Central and South Genome Medicine Service Alliance and Genomics Laboratory Hub, Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Audrey Smith
- Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK
| | - Charulata Deshpande
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK
| | - Sarah F Smithson
- Department of Brain Sciences, London Institute of Medical Sciences, Mansfield Centre for Inovation, Imperial College, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | | | - Natalie Canham
- Liverpool Centre for Genomic Medicine, Liverpool Women's Hospital, Liverpool, UK
| | - Mark Caulfield
- Genomics England, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Henry Houlden
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology and The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
- Neurology and Mitochondrial Disorders Genomics Clinical Interpretation Partnership, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Shamima Rahman
- Neurology and Mitochondrial Disorders Genomics Clinical Interpretation Partnership, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Metabolic Unit, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Mitochondrial Research Group, Department of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Patrick F Chinnery
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Neurology and Mitochondrial Disorders Genomics Clinical Interpretation Partnership, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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8
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St John JC. Epigenetic Regulation of the Nuclear and Mitochondrial Genomes: Involvement in Metabolism, Development, and Disease. Annu Rev Anim Biosci 2021; 9:203-224. [PMID: 33592161 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-animal-080520-083353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Our understanding of the interactions between the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes is becoming increasingly important as they are extensively involved in establishing early development and developmental progression. Evidence from various biological systems indicates the interdependency between the genomes, which requires a high degree of compatibility and synchrony to ensure effective cellular function throughout development and in the resultant offspring. During development, waves of DNA demethylation, de novo methylation, and maintenance methylation act on the nuclear genome and typify oogenesis and pre- and postimplantation development. At the same time, significant changes in mitochondrial DNA copy number influence the metabolic status of the developing organism in a typically cell-type-specific manner. Collectively, at any given stage in development, these actions establish genomic balance that ensures each developmental milestone is met and that the organism's program for life is established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin C St John
- Mitochondrial Genetics Group, Robinson Research Institute and School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia;
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9
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Ng YS, Bindoff LA, Gorman GS, Klopstock T, Kornblum C, Mancuso M, McFarland R, Sue CM, Suomalainen A, Taylor RW, Thorburn DR, Turnbull DM. Mitochondrial disease in adults: recent advances and future promise. Lancet Neurol 2021; 20:573-584. [PMID: 34146515 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(21)00098-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondrial diseases are some of the most common inherited neurometabolic disorders, and major progress has been made in our understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of these conditions in the past 5 years. Development of national mitochondrial disease cohorts and international collaborations has changed our knowledge of the spectrum of clinical phenotypes and natural history of mitochondrial diseases. Advances in high-throughput sequencing technologies have altered the diagnostic algorithm for mitochondrial diseases by increasingly using a genetics-first approach, with more than 350 disease-causing genes identified to date. While the current management strategy for mitochondrial disease focuses on surveillance for multisystem involvement and effective symptomatic treatment, new endeavours are underway to find better treatments, including repurposing current drugs, use of novel small molecules, and gene therapies. Developments made in reproductive technology offer women the opportunity to prevent transmission of DNA-related mitochondrial disease to their children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Shiau Ng
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; NHS Highly Specialised Service for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; Directorate of Neurosciences, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Laurence A Bindoff
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway; Neuro-SysMed, Department of Neurology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Gráinne S Gorman
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; NHS Highly Specialised Service for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; Directorate of Neurosciences, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Thomas Klopstock
- Department of Neurology, Friedrich-Baur-Institute, LMU Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Munich, Germany; Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology, Munich, Germany
| | - Cornelia Kornblum
- Department of Neurology, Neuromuscular Disease Section, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany; Centre for Rare Diseases, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Michelangelo Mancuso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Neurological Institute, University of Pisa, Italy
| | - Robert McFarland
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; NHS Highly Specialised Service for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Carolyn M Sue
- Department of Neurogenetics, Kolling Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Neurology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Anu Suomalainen
- Research Program in Stem Cells and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; Neuroscience Centre, HiLife, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; Helsinki University Hospital, HUSlab, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Robert W Taylor
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; NHS Highly Specialised Service for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - David R Thorburn
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Doug M Turnbull
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; NHS Highly Specialised Service for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
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10
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Bernardino Gomes TM, Ng YS, Pickett SJ, Turnbull DM, Vincent AE. Mitochondrial DNA disorders: From pathogenic variants to preventing transmission. Hum Mol Genet 2021; 30:R245-R253. [PMID: 34169319 PMCID: PMC8490015 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddab156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) disorders are recognized as one of the most common causes of inherited metabolic disorders. The mitochondrial genome occurs in multiple copies resulting in both homoplasmic and heteroplasmic pathogenic mtDNA variants. A biochemical defect arises when the pathogenic variant level reaches a threshold, which differs between variants. Moreover, variants can segregate, clonally expand, or be lost from cellular populations resulting in a dynamic and tissue-specific mosaic pattern of oxidative deficiency. MtDNA is maternally inherited but transmission patterns of heteroplasmic pathogenic variants are complex. During oogenesis, a mitochondrial bottleneck results in offspring with widely differing variant levels to their mother, whilst highly deleterious variants, such as deletions, are not transmitted. Complemented by a complex interplay between mitochondrial and nuclear genomes, these peculiar genetics produce marked phenotypic variation, posing challenges to the diagnosis and clinical management of patients. Novel therapeutic compounds and several genetic therapies are currently under investigation, but proven disease-modifying therapies remain elusive. Women who carry pathogenic mtDNA variants require bespoke genetic counselling to determine their reproductive options. Recent advances in in vitro fertilization techniques, have greatly improved reproductive choices, but are not without their challenges. Since the first pathogenic mtDNA variants were identified over 30 years ago, there has been remarkable progress in our understanding of these diseases. However, many questions remain unanswered and future studies are required to investigate the mechanisms of disease progression and to identify new disease-specific therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago M Bernardino Gomes
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK.,NHS Highly Specialised Service for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Yi Shiau Ng
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK.,NHS Highly Specialised Service for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Sarah J Pickett
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Doug M Turnbull
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Amy E Vincent
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
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Spath K, Babariya D, Konstantinidis M, Lowndes J, Child T, Grifo JA, Poulton J, Wells D. Clinical application of sequencing-based methods for parallel preimplantation genetic testing for mitochondrial DNA disease and aneuploidy. Fertil Steril 2021; 115:1521-1532. [PMID: 33745725 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To validate and apply a strategy permitting parallel preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) for mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) disease and aneuploidy (PGT-A). DESIGN Preclinical test validation and case reports. SETTING Fertility centers. Diagnostics laboratory. PATIENTS Four patients at risk of transmitting mtDNA disease caused by m.8993T>G (Patients A and B), m.10191T>G (Patient C), and m.3243A>G (Patient D). Patients A, B, and C had affected children. Patients A and D displayed somatic heteroplasmy for mtDNA mutations. INTERVENTIONS Embryo biopsy, genetic testing, and uterine transfer of embryos predicted to be euploid and mutation-free. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Test accuracy, treatment outcomes, and mutation segregation. RESULTS Accuracy of mtDNA mutation quantification was confirmed. The test was compatible with PGT-A, and half of the embryos tested were shown to be aneuploid (16/33). Mutations were detected in approximately 40% of embryo biopsies from Patients A and D (10/24) but in none from Patients B and C (n = 29). Patients B and C had healthy children following PGT and natural conception, respectively. The m.8993T>G mutation displayed skewed segregation, whereas m.3243A>G mutation levels were relatively low and potentially impacted embryo development. CONCLUSIONS Considering the high aneuploidy rate, strategies providing a combination of PGT for mtDNA disease and aneuploidy may be advantageous compared with approaches that consider only mtDNA. Heteroplasmic women had a higher incidence of affected embryos than those with undetectable somatic mutant mtDNA but were still able to produce mutation-free embryos. While not conclusive, the results are consistent with the existence of mutation-specific segregation mechanisms occurring during oogenesis and possibly embryogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Spath
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Juno Genetics, Oxford, United Kingdom.
| | - Dhruti Babariya
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Juno Genetics, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Jo Lowndes
- Oxford Centre for Genomic Medicine, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Tim Child
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford Fertility, Fertility Partnership, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Joanna Poulton
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Dagan Wells
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Juno Genetics, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Advances in the diagnosis of inherited neuromuscular diseases and implications for therapy development. Lancet Neurol 2020; 19:522-532. [PMID: 32470424 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(20)30028-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Advances in DNA sequencing technologies have resulted in a near doubling, in under 10 years, of the number of causal genes identified for inherited neuromuscular disorders. However, around half of patients, whether children or adults, do not receive a molecular diagnosis after initial diagnostic workup. Massively parallel technologies targeting RNA, proteins, and metabolites are being increasingly used to diagnose these unsolved cases. The use of these technologies to delineate pathways, biomarkers, and therapeutic targets has led to new approaches entering the drug development pipeline. However, these technologies might give rise to misleading conclusions if used in isolation, and traditional techniques including comprehensive neurological evaluation, histopathology, and biochemistry continue to have a crucial role in diagnostics. For optimal diagnosis, prognosis, and precision medicine, no single ruling technology exists. Instead, an interdisciplinary approach combining novel and traditional neurological techniques with computer-aided analysis and international data sharing is needed to advance the diagnosis and treatment of neuromuscular disorders.
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Mitochondrial Diseases: Hope for the Future. Cell 2020; 181:168-188. [PMID: 32220313 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2020.02.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 207] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondrial diseases are clinically heterogeneous disorders caused by a wide spectrum of mutations in genes encoded by either the nuclear or the mitochondrial genome. Treatments for mitochondrial diseases are currently focused on symptomatic management rather than improving the biochemical defect caused by a particular mutation. This review focuses on the latest advances in the development of treatments for mitochondrial disease, both small molecules and gene therapies, as well as methods to prevent transmission of mitochondrial disease through the germline.
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