Dysfunction of cellular powerplant shakes B-vitamin metabolism, causes genetic damage The recent Finnish study clarified a mechanism underlying a severe progressive children's brain disease and adult's muscle disease. The results indicate for the first time that the energy-metabolic defect in a cell can shake its B-vitamin balance and lead to genetic changes. The study was led by MSc Joni Nikkanen in the research group of Professor Anu Suomalainen-Wartiovaara, University of Helsinki, and the results were published in a distinguished science journal, Cell Metabolism. Mitochondria are the cellular powerplant, but their functions in conjunction with B-vitamins are only starting to be revealed. When nutrient status is good, vitamin B9, folate, turns mitochondria to cellular builders. Through folate, mitochondria produce substances to make ingredients for genome replication and repair, cell membrane renewal and synthesis of antioxidants. The mechanism also inlcudes other...
