Mitochondrial DNA Variations Increase the Risk of Glioblastoma Multiforme

Abstract

Purpose: Gliomas account for 80% of all primary malignant brain tumors, and virtually 50% of gliomas give rise to glioblastoma multiforme (GBM).Given the possibility that GBM may significantly be influenced by genetic variations in complex I genes, we, for the first time, conducted a survey of ND genes in Iranian cases with GBM and attempted to seek for mutations.

Methods: A total of 25 patients and 79 non-cases were included in the present study. We amplified target genes of mtDNA using PCR, and sequenced them to evaluate mitochondrial complex I gene alterations. Based on the results, there were eight variants (ND1 T3394C, ND2 G5460A, ND3 A10398G, ND4 C11674T, ND5 A12662G, ND4L C10473G, ND5 C13061A, and ND6 C14426T)in the mitochondrial complex I gene.

Results: Our results also showed that the prevalence of ND4, ND4L, ND5, and ND6 gene variations was significantly higher in cases than in non-cases. 

Conclusions: In conclusion, since the importance of mtDNA changes, as a potential molecular etiology for complex I deficiency more study is necessary to understand the role and effect of the mitochondrial variations in GBM pathogenesis.