Mitochondria DNA aging and repair

Abstract

Mitochondria are the power plant of the cell; it is here that the cell produces ATP to drive cellular processes. The mitochondrial contains the electron transport chain which is a significant source of reactive oxygen species, which is the main cause for damages to the mitochondrial DNA.  As the mitochondria regenerates, the mitochondrial DNA it is continuously exposed to damaging agents. The older the cells are the more reactive oxygen species are present. Through the study of damage causing agents, researchers have concluded that mitochondrial DNA contains all the enzymes necessary for base excision repair. This review focuses on the experimental evidences that support mitochondrial dysfunction in aging, as well as current knowledge of mitochondrial DNA damage and repair.