Mitochondria Transplantation: A Revolutionary Leap in Medical Science
By Suryavanshi IAS Team
Introduction
In a world of constantly evolving medical frontiers, the use of mitochondria transplantation has emerged as one of the most groundbreaking developments in modern science. Originating as an experimental procedure during heart surgeries on pigs, it has shown remarkable promise in treating ischaemia-reperfusion injuries, stroke, and organ recovery. For UPSC aspirants, understanding this innovation provides not only an insight into cutting-edge biotechnology but also prepares them for key questions under GS Paper III (Science and Technology, Health) and GS Paper II (Governance and Health Policy).
What is Mitochondria Transplantation?
Mitochondria are the powerhouses of cells, responsible for generating energy and managing immune responses. Mitochondria transplantation involves extracting healthy mitochondria from muscle tissue and injecting them into damaged organs to restore function and promote recovery.
Breakthrough in Cardiac Treatment
James McCully and his team at Boston Children’s Hospital pioneered this innovation. In an urgent pig heart operation, injecting mitochondria helped restore normal heart function within minutes. Following successful animal trials, 17 babies undergoing critical heart surgery were treated using this technique, with encouraging outcomes in most cases.
Applications of Mitochondrial Therapy
Cardiac Surgery Recovery
Stroke and Brain Ischaemia Treatment
Revival of Donor Organs Before Transplantation
Potential in Treating Liver, Kidney and Lung Damage
Scientific Mechanism
Injected mitochondria are absorbed by damaged cells, which fuse with the native mitochondria. This process helps reduce cell death and inflammation, and restore gene activity that supports organ recovery.
Challenges & Future Scope
Large-scale mitochondria extraction and preservation is still a hurdle.
FDA approval and universal clinical use are yet to be achieved.
Potential creation of a 'Mitochondria Bank' to support emergency needs.
Ethical & Regulatory Aspects
Any intervention at the cellular level invites ethical scrutiny. With human trials still limited, it is vital to ensure patient consent, safety protocols, and long-term impact analysis.
Why UPSC Aspirants Should Pay Attention
This topic integrates with several areas of the UPSC syllabus:
GS Paper II: Issues relating to Health, Governance, Ethical questions in healthcare innovation
GS Paper III: Biotechnology, Achievements of Indians in Science, Awareness in Health Sector
GS Paper IV: Ethics in Medicine, Use of experimental techniques
Previous UPSC Questions
GS III (2020): "How is science interwoven deeply with our lives? What are the striking changes in agriculture triggered off by the science-based technologies?"
GS II (2016): "Global health issues demand global cooperation. Evaluate the role of WHO in addressing these issues with reference to recent outbreaks."
GS IV (2019): "Discuss the ethical implications of withholding life-saving medical aid due to political differences."
Prelims MCQ Sample:
Q. What is the primary function of mitochondria in human cells?
(a) DNA replication
(b) Hormone production
(c) Energy generation and cellular signaling
(d) Protein synthesis
Answer: (c) — Mitochondria generate ATP (energy) and regulate cellular stress responses.
Suryavanshi IAS Says:
Mitochondrial transplantation is not just a scientific marvel but also a symbol of hope for future regenerative medicine. Stay ahead by understanding how science transforms society, medicine, and public policy.
Join Suryavanshi IAS today to master such cutting-edge topics with structured notes, mains practice, and test series!
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