Mitigating the risks of mitochondrial donation

Mitochondrial donation in eggs is a possible way to avoid mitochondrial DNA disease. However, there are safety concerns. To address these, we will perform the procedure in mice to see if (1) the procedure affects egg viability, (2) the donor egg causes physical or behavioural changes, (3) carry-over mutant mitochondria lead to disease, and (4) carry-over risk can be minimized. Our findings will serve as a reference for the eventual adoption or non-adoption of the technology.