Mitochondrial donation in fertilised eggs is a possible therapy for avoiding mitochondrial DNA disease, but there are major safety concerns, such as mutant mitochondrial carryover. To address these concerns, we will develop two new methods to eliminate carryover risk, then translate our findings to human eggs. Also, we will determine if the mitochondrial donation procedure affects offspring health. Our findings will serve as a guide for adopting the technology.
UNDERSTANDING THE BENEFITS AND LIMITATIONS OF METAPHASE II SPINDLE TRANSFER
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,629,373.00
Summary
Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) diseases are transmitted from a mother's eggs to her children. However, the levels of affected mtDNA differ amongst her eggs. Consequently, a carrier would not know if the newborn child were to suffer from these diseases. Mitochondrial Donation offers couples the potential to have an unaffected child. We will undertake the most comprehensive study of mitochondrial donation using one of its associated approaches to determine if it produces healthy embryos and offspring.