Mitochondria contain their own DNA, which encodes 13 proteins. Defects on the mitochondrial DNA can be passed down maternally, leading to a group of diseases called mitochondrial cytopathies. Explain which cell populations you think would be most affected by this disease.
Answers
Answer:
• The cells which would be more affected by the mitochondrial defects are the muscle cells, cerebrum, etc.
Explanation:
• Mitochondria is also called as semi autonomous cell organelle because of the presence of mitochondrial chromosomes in it.
• It is the only cell in animals besides nucleus to posses genetic material. Although in plant cells the genetic material is also found in chloroplasts besides mitochondria and nucleus.
• Mitochondria is a body a somatic cell organelle and that's why it's inheritance in the daughter cells occurs maternally.
• There are various mitochondrial defects or diseases which can be caused due to such inheritance.
• Although mitochondria is found in all body cells, the cells which are most likely to be affected are the muscle cells, cerebrum, nerve cells, etc.
• It happens because in these cells the number of mitochondria is very large because these cells needs more energy.
• Therefore, these cells are at greater risk if any defects related to mitochondria is found in the body.