Mitochondrial gene replacement in primate offspring and embryonic stem cells

Nature. 2009 Sep 17;461(7262):367-72. doi: 10.1038/nature08368. Epub 2009 Aug 26.

Abstract

Mitochondria are found in all eukaryotic cells and contain their own genome (mitochondrial DNA or mtDNA). Unlike the nuclear genome, which is derived from both the egg and sperm at fertilization, the mtDNA in the embryo is derived almost exclusively from the egg; that is, it is of maternal origin. Mutations in mtDNA contribute to a diverse range of currently incurable human diseases and disorders. To establish preclinical models for new therapeutic approaches, we demonstrate here that the mitochondrial genome can be efficiently replaced in mature non-human primate oocytes (Macaca mulatta) by spindle-chromosomal complex transfer from one egg to an enucleated, mitochondrial-replete egg. The reconstructed oocytes with the mitochondrial replacement were capable of supporting normal fertilization, embryo development and produced healthy offspring. Genetic analysis confirmed that nuclear DNA in the three infants born so far originated from the spindle donors whereas mtDNA came from the cytoplast donors. No contribution of spindle donor mtDNA was detected in offspring. Spindle replacement is shown here as an efficient protocol replacing the full complement of mitochondria in newly generated embryonic stem cell lines. This approach may offer a reproductive option to prevent mtDNA disease transmission in affected families.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Nucleus / genetics
  • DNA, Mitochondrial / analysis
  • DNA, Mitochondrial / genetics*
  • Embryo Transfer
  • Embryonic Stem Cells / cytology*
  • Embryonic Stem Cells / metabolism*
  • Embryonic Stem Cells / transplantation
  • Female
  • Fertilization in Vitro
  • Genes, Mitochondrial / genetics*
  • Genome, Mitochondrial / genetics*
  • Macaca mulatta / embryology
  • Macaca mulatta / genetics*
  • Male
  • Meiosis
  • Mitochondrial Diseases / genetics
  • Mitochondrial Diseases / prevention & control
  • Mutation
  • Oocytes / cytology
  • Oocytes / metabolism
  • Pregnancy
  • Reproductive Techniques, Assisted*

Substances

  • DNA, Mitochondrial