Among the numerous theories that explain the process of aging, the mitochondrial theory of aging has received the most attention. This theory states that electrons leaking from the ETC (electron transfer chain) reduce molecular oxygen to form O2•− (superoxide anion radicals). O2•−, through both enzymic and non-enzymic reactions, can cause the generation of other ROS (reactive oxygen species). The ensuing state of oxidative stress results in damage to ETC components and mtDNA (mitochondrial DNA), thus increasing further the production of ROS. Ultimately, this ‘vicious cycle’ leads to a physiological decline in function, or aging. This review focuses on recent developments in aging research related to the role played by mtDNA. Both supportive and contradictory evidence is discussed.
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October 2004
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Review Article|
September 24 2004
Mitochondrial DNA and aging
Mikhail F. ALEXEYEV;
1Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, University of South Alabama, 307 University Blvd, Mobile, AL 36688, U.S.A.
Correspondence: Dr Mikhail F. Alexeyev (email malexeye@jaguar1.usouthal.edu).
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Susan P. LeDOUX;
Susan P. LeDOUX
1Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, University of South Alabama, 307 University Blvd, Mobile, AL 36688, U.S.A.
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Glenn L. WILSON
Glenn L. WILSON
1Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, University of South Alabama, 307 University Blvd, Mobile, AL 36688, U.S.A.
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Publisher: Portland Press Ltd
Received:
May 26 2004
Revision Received:
July 22 2004
Accepted:
July 28 2004
Accepted Manuscript online:
July 28 2004
Online ISSN: 1470-8736
Print ISSN: 0143-5221
The Biochemical Society
2004
Clin Sci (Lond) (2004) 107 (4): 355–364.
Article history
Received:
May 26 2004
Revision Received:
July 22 2004
Accepted:
July 28 2004
Accepted Manuscript online:
July 28 2004
Citation
Mikhail F. ALEXEYEV, Susan P. LeDOUX, Glenn L. WILSON; Mitochondrial DNA and aging. Clin Sci (Lond) 1 October 2004; 107 (4): 355–364. doi: https://doi.org/10.1042/CS20040148
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