Understanding how damaged mitochondrial DNA is broken down

Chemical and Molecular Mechanisms of Mitochondrial DNA Degradation

NIH-funded research University of California Riverside · NIH-11001924

This study is looking into how our cells break down mitochondrial DNA, which is important for keeping our energy-producing parts of the cell healthy, and it hopes to help people with conditions like mitochondrial depletion syndromes and inflammatory diseases by uncovering new information about this process.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Riverside NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Riverside, United States)
Project IDNIH-11001924 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the processes involved in the degradation of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), which is crucial for the proper functioning of mitochondria. By identifying the proteins and molecular triggers that facilitate mtDNA degradation, the study aims to fill significant gaps in our understanding of mitochondrial maintenance and its implications for various diseases. Patients may benefit from insights gained about mtDNA degradation, particularly in relation to conditions like mitochondrial depletion syndromes and inflammatory diseases. The research employs advanced biochemical techniques to analyze the mechanisms of mtDNA turnover and its role in cellular health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with mitochondrial disorders or related inflammatory conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to mitochondrial function or degradation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating diseases linked to mitochondrial dysfunction.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanisms of mtDNA degradation are not extensively studied, related research in mitochondrial biology has shown promising results in understanding mitochondrial dysfunction.

Where this research is happening

Riverside, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Cardiovascular Diseasescardiovascular disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.