Mitochondrial DNA mutations in aging and cancer

As such, over 50% of neoplasms occur in individuals over 70. Respective groups of molecular hallmarks have characterized the pathologies of both ageing and cancer, and while some features are divergent between the two pathologies, several are shared. There is now considerable evidence documenting the accumulation of somatic mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations in ageing human post‐mitotic and replicative tissues. Similarly, modifications of the mitochondrial genome have been reported in human cancers for decades. However, the specific mechanisms by which mtDNA mutations contribute to tumour progression remain elusive and often contradictory. This review aims to consolidate current knowledge and describe future directions within the field.