Queensland Scientists Identify New DNA Regulation Mechanism
Researchers uncover DNA mechanism that regulates inherited mutations, offering potential for preventing heritable diseases.
Complete the form below to unlock access to ALL audio articles.
University of Queensland researchers have discovered a mechanism in DNA that regulates how disease-causing mutations are inherited.
Dr Anne Hahn and Associate Professor Steven Zuryn from UQ’s Queensland Brain Institute said the findings could provide a promising therapeutic avenue to stop the onset of heritable and age-related diseases.
“Mitochondrial DNA is essential for cell function,” Dr Hahn said.
Want more breaking news?
Subscribe to Technology Networks’ daily newsletter, delivering breaking science news straight to your inbox every day.
Subscribe for FREE“But as we age it mutates, contributing to diseases like dementia, cancer and diabetes.
“Our team identified 2 enzymes that regulate a chemical modification – adenine methylation or 6mA – in mitochondrial DNA across various species, including humans.”
“Removing this modification leads to uncontrolled accumulation and inheritance of mutations in the DNA,” Dr Hahn said.
The concept of epigenetics is an evolving field of research that reveals how environmental factors such as childhood experiences, can influence gene expression.
This challenges the old belief that DNA mutations inevitably lead to disease.
Dr Hahn said the study bridges the gap between genetics and epigenetics.
“It shows how this epigenetic mark guards against disease-causing mutations and ensures the continuity of healthy cells,” she said.
Dr Zuryn said epigenetic modification was not only essential for individual health but also for safeguarding the genetic integrity of future generations.
“Our discovery was largely performed in the model organism C. elegans, and cells grown in a laboratory,” he said.
“The team is now exploring whether similar mechanisms exist in humans and how they might influence disease outcomes.
“This research has vast implications and offers a novel perspective on genetic and epigenetic factors in health and disease.”
Reference: Hahn A, Hung GCC, Ahier A, et al. Misregulation of mitochondrial 6mA promotes the propagation of mutant mtDNA and causes aging in C. elegans. Cell Metabolism. doi: 10.1016/j.cmet.2024.07.020
This article has been republished from the following materials. Note: material may have been edited for length and content. For further information, please contact the cited source. Our press release publishing policy can be accessed here.
