Juntendo University Broadens the Scope of Mitochondrial Disease Testing
TOKYO, Feb. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Mitochondrial disease occurs when malfunctioning mitochondria cannot sustain the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP)—the energy currency of life—in the inner mitochondrial membrane. The loss of this vital molecule has far-reaching consequences that affect various organ systems and can cause psychiatric symptoms, cardiomyopathy, seizures, kidney and liver dysfunction, and hearing loss.
- The Intractable Disease Research Center at Juntendo University will conduct broader analyses of mitochondrial genetic data to confirm genetic diagnosis.
- Unfortunately, mitochondrial disease is the most common congenital metabolic condition, with one case detected for every 5000 live births.
- In terms of testing, Juntendo University screens many babies diagnosed with mitochondrial disease each year.
- In this regard, Prof. Murayama's team commenced mitochondrial disease outpatient care at Juntendo Medical Center's Pediatric and Adolescent Department in July 2023.