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Researchers have shown for the first time how children can inherit a severe – potentially fatal – mitochondrial disease from a healthy mother. ̽»¨Ö±²¥study, led by researchers from the MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit at the ̽»¨Ö±²¥ of Cambridge, reveals that healthy people harbour mutations in their mitochondrial DNA and explains how cases of severe mitochondrial disease can appear unexpectedly in previously unaffected families.

Professor Patrick Chinnery, an expert in diseases that affect mitochondria – the ‘batteries’ that power our cells – has been appointed as Professor of Neurology and Head of the Department of Clinical Neurosciences at the ̽»¨Ö±²¥ of Cambridge. He will take up his appointment on 1 October.