MT-CYB and MT-ATP6 Gene Variations in COVID-19 Patients and Their Association with Disease Symptoms

What is it about?

This study explored changes (mutations) in mitochondrial genes (MT-CYB and MT-ATP6) in COVID-19 patients and healthy individuals. Certain gene mutations were more common in those with COVID-19. Among these, two specific mutations may negatively impact the structure and function of key mitochondrial proteins, potentially contributing to how COVID-19 affects the body and causes symptoms.

Featured Image

Photo by Martin Sanchez on Unsplash

Photo by Martin Sanchez on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This study identified one novel mtDNA mutation, along with several relatively common mutations in the MT-CYB and MT-ATP6 genes among COVID-19 patients. As mtDNA mutations are commonly observed in COVID-19 patients, it indicates that SARS-CoV-2 may alter the host’s genetic material, particularly in mtDNA. Findings of this study indicate that there may be a correlation between the m.14942A > C mutation in the MT-CYB gene and the m.8744T > G mutation in the MT-ATP6 gene, with the clinical symptoms of COVID-19. The results of this study will help better understand the links among SARS-CoV-2 infection, mtDNA mutations in these two genes, and mitochondrial dysfunction.