Scientists have discovered a link between mitochondrial DNA and an increased risk of atherosclerosis. Discuss
Mitochondria are called "energy stations"cells, and a growing body of evidence suggests that they also play a role in inflammation. Scientists recently examined human blood cells and found a surprising link between mitochondria, inflammation, and DNMT3A and TET2, two genes that normally help regulate blood cell growth but, when mutated, are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis.
It turned out that the DNMT3A and TET2 genes directlyactivate the expression of a gene involved in mitochondrial inflammatory pathways. This discovery will allow the development of a new cure for atherosclerosis, a condition where cholesterol is deposited in the lumen of blood vessels.