Analysis of mtDNA point mutations A3243G, C3256T and mtDNA deletions in 41diabetic patients

BACKGROUND: Mutations or deletions of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) define a ne w diabetes subtype. PATIENTS AND METHOD: The A3243G and C3256T mutations and mtDNA deletions we re studied in 41 diabetic patients with maternally inherited diabetes melli tus or deafness. RESULTS: The A3243G mutation was found in one out of forty-one diabetic pat ients (2.4%). Neither the C3256T mutation nor mtDNA deletions were detected . CONCLUSIONS: The search of A3243G mutation has to be considered in a diabet ic patient with deafness and/or maternal history of diabetes.