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Donor mitochondria could influence metabolism, aging

Mouse study has implications for 3-parent babies

mice

TWO OLD MICE  Elderly mice carrying one type of mitochondria (one shown, right) aged healthfully, while nearly identical mice carrying a different type of mitochondria (one shown, left) raised in the same conditions show more wear and tear. 

CNIC

By Amy McDermott

- More than 2 years ago

For a “three-parent baby,” getting disease-free mitochondrial DNA from a surrogate may do more than just avert disease: For better or for worse, a donor’s mitochondria could also affect the course of aging, new research shows.