Older moms carry more mitochondrial mutations, leading to more diseases

It’s a widely known truth that older mothers have increased chances of giving birth to children with a wide variety of illnesses, but the reason for this has been quite unclear. Recently a study revealed that increased maternal age was associated with higher rates of mitochondrial mutations, a finding which may explain the higher rates of mitochondrial diseases associated with children of older mothers.

Researchers from Pennsylvania State University have discovered what they describe as the “maternal age effect.” According to a press release, this “maternal age effect” could be used to predict the accumulation of a certain type of mutation, called mitochondrial DNA mutation, in the maternal eggs. The finding could help improve the accuracy of genetic counseling, which means that prospective parents will have a better idea of their offsprings’ chances of being affected by certain types of genetic conditions.

Read full, original article: Mitochondrial Disease More Present In Older Moms; Could Improve Genetic Counseling

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