GDF-15 as a Biomarker for Mitochondrial Disease

Mitochondrial disorders are a group of inherited disorders causing malfunctional mitochondria. Mitochondria are found in every cell of the body, and the disorders therefore give symptoms from every tissue, especially those with high energy needs as the brain, heart and muscles. The symptoms are often unspecific in terms of muscle weakness and fatigue, which delays the first contact to the doctor and further delays the diagnosis. The aim of this study is to investigate if it is possible to use GDF-15 (Growth and Differentiation Factor 15) as a biomarker for mitochondrial disease and compare the results with that of healthy controls, metabolic myopathies and muscular dystrophies. The concentration relative to exercise will further be investigated.