Mitochondrially encoded tRNA lysine (MT-TK)

Mitochondrially encoded tRNA lysine (MT-TK) is a small, non-coding transfer RNA encoded by the mitochondrial genome. It consists of 70 nucleotides and is responsible for delivering lysine to the growing polypeptide chain during mitochondrial translation. This RNA plays a critical role in the synthesis of proteins required for oxidative phosphorylation, the primary pathway through which mitochondria produce ATP. Mutations in the MT-TK gene, especially the m.8344A>G mutation, are causative for myoclonic epilepsy with ragged-red fibers (MERRF) syndrome and other mitochondrial diseases. Proper post-transcriptional modifications and structural folding of MT-TK are essential for its function and for the overall integrity of mitochondrial translation.

Other names

trnKtRNA^Lysmitochondrial tRNA-LysMTTKMERRF tRNA

Not applicable (no drugs are known to directly target mitochondrial tRNAs)