Research progress of mitochondrial replacement therapy in the field of reproductive medicine

Corresponding author: xinzhimin, xinzhimin@ccmu.edu.cn

DOI: 10.12201/bmr.202509.00023

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  Abstract: Mitochondrial genetic diseases are mainly caused by mutations in mitochondrial DNA or nuclear DNA, and are mainly inherited through the maternal line. Mitochondrial replacement therapy (MRT) is an innovative technology that has attracted much attention in the field of reproductive medicine in recent years. This technology aims to replace mitochondria with clear defects with exogenous normal mitochondria to block the transmission of mitochondrial genetic diseases. At the same time, it can also improve the quality of oocytes in elderly women and increase the formation rate of high-quality embryos in assisted reproductive technology. In recent years, significant progress has been made in global research and clinical application of MRT. However, major challenges are also faced in the application of this technology, and its safety and effectiveness need further verification. At the same time, the use of MRT has also sparked widespread ethical controversies, all of which have affected the promotion and application of MRT. This article reviews the latest research progress of MRT in the field of reproductive medicine, existing technical challenges, related ethical issues, and prospects for the future of MRT.

  Key words: Mitochondrial replacement therapy; Mitochondrial genetic diseases; Reproductive medicine

  Submit time: 8 September 2025

  Copyright: The copyright holder for this preprint is the author/funder, who has granted biomedRxiv a license to display the preprint in perpetuity.
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