www.sciencedaily.com
Researchers have discovered a novel, adhesive type of damage to mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) that accumulates much more significantly than damage in nuclear DNA. This sticky damage impairs energy production and triggers cellular stress responses. Computer simulations suggest this mtDNA damage stiffens the molecule, potentially signaling it for degradation. This discovery provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying inflammation, aging, and diseases like diabetes and neurodegenerative disorders, highlighting the critical role of mtDNA integrity in cellular health.
