## Exploring the Therapeutic Breakthrough: Stem Cell-Derived Mitochondria Transplantation
Medical science has always been at the forefront of delivering solutions that improve human health and combat various diseases. One such revolutionary medical breakthrough is the successful treatment of six children with rare disorders caused by deletions in their mitochondrial genomes through stem cell-derived mitochondria transplantation. This article delves into the science behind this groundbreaking procedure, its underlying concept, the role of mitochondria, and examples of relevant examination questions.
Understanding Stem Cell-Derived Mitochondria Transplantation
Stem-cell derived mitochondria transplantation involves the transfer of mitochondria from a donor mother’s stem cells to a child’s haematopoietic stem cells – the precursors to all blood cells. This process can either occur spontaneously or be initiated by injecting isolated stem cell mitochondria into damaged areas, facilitating cell repair.
Stem cells, the most primitive cells at the origin of cell lines, possess a high capacity for differentiation and self-renewal. These cells have the ability to differentiate into the various tissues, organs, or functional cells of the human body, making them invaluable for therapeutic tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
The Role of Mitochondria
Mitochondria are semi-autonomous cell organelles, often referred to as the cell’s powerhouses. They generate the majority of chemical energy needed to power biochemical reactions within the cell. This energy is stored in the form of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP).
Uniquely, mitochondria contain their own DNA, termed Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA). Typically, mitochondria and their DNA are inherited solely from the mother in most multicellular organisms. After fertilisation, mitochondria present in mammalian sperm are typically destroyed by the egg cell.
Insights into Mitochondrial Diseases
Inherited mitochondrial diseases are chronic, genetic disorders that develop when mitochondria fail to produce sufficient energy for the body’s proper functioning. Notably, it is possible to prevent passing on mitochondrial diseases from parent to child with mitochondrial replacement therapy (MRT), either before or after in vitro fertilisation of the egg.
The MRT technology allows nearly complete replacement of the egg/embryo cytoplasm, eliminating the transmission of undesired defective mitochondria. The therapy involves transferring the mother’s nuclear genetic material from an egg with diseased mitochondria into a donor egg with healthy mitochondria. The healthy mitochondria in the donor egg allow for normal development and prevent the transmission of mitochondrial disease.
Exploring Stem Cells
Stem cells are undifferentiated or ‘blank’ cells capable of developing into cells serving multiple functions in diverse body parts. These cells can be found not only in mammals but also in plants and other organisms. Scientists believe stem cells have potential therapeutic uses due to their ability to transform into various cell types.
These advanced cells can be employed to grow new cells in a laboratory to replace damaged organs or tissues, correct dysfunctional organ parts, understand genetic defects in cells, study disease occurrence, test new drugs for safety and effectiveness, and carry out medical therapies.