What is energy?
Mitochondria are structures inside nearly every cell that turn the food you eat and the oxygen you breathe into ATP, the molecule cells use for energy. They do this through a series of protein complexes called the electron transport chain. Tissues with high energy needs, such as muscle, heart and brain, are especially rich in mitochondria. How well they work can influence stamina, recovery and how you feel through the day.
How your genes play a role
Uniquely, mitochondria have their own DNA, inherited from your mother. Genes such as ND1 to ND6, CYTB, COX1 to COX3, ATP6 and ATP8 code for parts of the energy-making machinery. Genes in your main genome help manage mitochondria too. PGC-1A helps cells build new mitochondria, and SIRT3 helps keep them running efficiently.
Energy is something you feel directly. Understanding the genetic side of how your cells produce it can add context to your sense of stamina, recovery and daily rhythm. It may also make habits such as regular movement, good sleep and balanced meals feel more meaningful, since these are often discussed in relation to mitochondrial health. It is a personal lens on something you experience every day.
What your report shows
Your Energy results are explained in plain language in your private EvoDNA account, alongside the other areas in your kit.
- Mitochondrial variantsA look at variation in the genes carried in your mitochondrial DNA.
- Energy machineryHow your genes for the electron transport chain may be tuned.
- Mitochondrial renewalVariants linked to how readily your cells may build new mitochondria.
- Maternal lineageInsight into the mitochondrial DNA passed down through your maternal line.
| Gene | What it does | Result |
|---|---|---|
| ND1 | Codes for part of complex I, the first and… | Typical |
| CYTB | Codes for a core part of complex III, which… | Moderate effect |
| ATP6 | Codes for part of ATP synthase, the molecular turbine… | Typical |
Each result comes with a plain-language explanation and practical points to discuss with your clinician.
Illustration only. Your report reflects your own genetic results.
Genes we analyze
| Gene | Role |
|---|---|
| ND1 | Codes for part of complex I, the first and largest step of the energy-making chain in mitochondria. |
| CYTB | Codes for a core part of complex III, which passes electrons along the energy chain. |
| ATP6 | Codes for part of ATP synthase, the molecular turbine that produces the cell's energy currency. |
| PGC-1A | Acts as a master regulator that helps cells create new mitochondria, especially in response to exercise. |
| SIRT3 | Produces an enzyme inside mitochondria that helps keep energy production efficient and balanced. |
Full panel: 16 genes
MTCO2, ND1, ND2, ND3, ND4, ND4L, ND5, ND6, ATP6, ATP8, CYTB, COX1, COX2, COX3, PGC-1A, SIRT3
Putting results to use
Many people use their results as a starting point for conversations with their clinician about:
Exercise, especially endurance activity, is widely discussed as a signal for building healthy mitochondria.
Steady sleep and wake times support the body's natural daily energy rhythm.
Regular meals with protein, complex carbohydrates and healthy fats provide steady fuel.
Daylight and fresh air are often mentioned as gentle supports for daytime alertness.
Questions
Why does mitochondrial DNA come only from my mother?
Mitochondria in the egg cell are passed to the embryo, while those from sperm are typically not kept. This means your mitochondrial DNA reflects your maternal line.
Can this explain why I feel tired?
Tiredness has many possible causes, including sleep, stress, nutrition and medical conditions. Genetics offers context, but persistent fatigue is worth discussing with your clinician.
Can I improve my mitochondrial health?
Research suggests regular physical activity, good sleep and balanced nutrition support healthy mitochondria. Your clinician can help you choose an approach that suits you.
Only interested in this area? The Energy Production Genetic Report is available on its own for $99.00.
