What Is Leigh Syndrome?
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
2. Causes
Our DNA contains all the information about us when we will be born, and much of who we will grow up to be as adults. We get our DNA from both parents, but errors sometimes occur when it is being copied. Leigh syndrome is caused by a mutation in nuclear DNA or mitochondrial DNA. It is also sometimes caused by an enzyme known as pyruvate dehydrogenase.
There are more than 75 different genes that can be behind the condition. Most of the genes responsible disrupt the functioning of protein complexes that help in the production of energy in our mitochondria. It is thought that this disruption means cells don’t get the energy they need, and die as a result.
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