MT-TT

MT-TT is a gene that in humans is encoded by the MT-TT mitochondrial DNA. This gene provides instructions for making a molecule called transfer RNA (tRNA) that is essential for protein production. MT-TT is a small structural RNA molecule component of the mitochondrial ribosome, which is involved in the protein synthesis within the mitochondrion.

Function

The MT-TT gene is located within the mitochondrial genome, which is found in the mitochondria. Mitochondria are structures within cells that convert the energy from food into a form that cells can use. Each cell contains hundreds to thousands of mitochondria, which are located in the fluid that surrounds the nucleus (the cytoplasm).

The MT-TT gene provides instructions for making a molecule called transfer RNA (tRNA), which is essential for protein production. Transfer RNA helps assemble protein building blocks (amino acids) into functioning proteins.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the MT-TT gene have been associated with several mitochondrial disorders, including mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes (MELAS), myoclonic epilepsy with ragged-red fibers (MERRF), and Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON). These conditions often involve muscle weakness and pain, seizures, vision loss, and abnormalities of the heart, liver, and kidneys.

See also

• Mitochondrial DNA
• Transfer RNA
• Mitochondrial disease