Mito, short for mitochondrial disease, arises from defects in mitochondria, the powerhouses of our cells. These defects hinder the mitochondria's ability to produce energy, leading to a wide range of symptoms.
Primary Causes of Mitochondrial Disease
Mitochondrial diseases stem from several sources:
- Genetic Mutations: The most common cause involves mutations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) or nuclear DNA (nDNA). MtDNA mutations can affect some or all of the mtDNA within a cell, influencing symptom severity and onset. [Reference: "Mito can be caused by changes in the mtDNA, commonly seen in adults or nDNA, which account for the majority of children diagnosed with mito. In mito caused by mtDNA changes, occasionally only some mtDNA is changed and some is healthy. This mix can affect how severe mito is and when symptoms start."] Nuclear DNA mutations affect genes responsible for mitochondrial function. [Reference: Mutations in this mtDNA or mutations in nuclear DNA (DNA found in the nucleus of a cell) can cause mitochondrial disorder.]
- Environmental Factors: While less common, environmental toxins can also trigger or exacerbate mitochondrial dysfunction. [Reference: Environmental toxins can also trigger mitochondrial disorder.]
Types and Prevalence
There are over 350 identified genetic causes of mitochondrial disease, making it a group of rare but diverse conditions. [Reference: There are many different types of mito, with over 350 genetic causes identified so far.] While considered rare overall, some types are more common than others. [Reference: All types are considered rare, but some are more common...] Primary mitochondrial disorders are among the most prevalent inherited metabolic errors. [Reference: Primary mitochondrial disorders are the most common inherited errors of metabolism.]
Understanding Mitochondrial Function
Mitochondria are organelles within cells responsible for energy production. When their function is compromised, the body's cells lack sufficient energy to perform their tasks properly. [Reference: A lack of energy production from mitochondria in your cells causes mitochondrial disease. Mitochondria are responsible for producing energy within your body.] This energy deficit manifests in various ways, depending on which cells are most affected. [Reference: Mitochondrial disorders are caused by defects in mitochondria, which are energy factories found inside almost all the cells in the body.] Mitochondrial diseases are often inherited, but can also develop later in life. [Reference: Mitochondrial disease is an inherited, chronic illness that can be present at birth or develop later in life.]
