Mutations in mitochondrial DNA that inhibit the normal function of this organelle can result in disease if a sufficient percentage of mitochondria in the body's cells harbor such alterations. Using transcription activator–like effector nuclease (TALEN) technology, Carlos Moraes and his colleagues show that mutant mitochondria can be selectively targeted and eliminated, allowing for a sufficient percentage increase of normal mitochondria and thus restoration of normal respiration in a cell-based model.
- Sandra R Bacman
- Siôn L Williams
- Carlos T Moraes
