MitoCast

Thymidine kinase 2 deficiency, or TK2d, is a rare type of mitochondrial disease that mainly affects the muscles and can impact movement, swallowing, speech and breathing. Symptoms can begin in infancy or childhood, but may also first appear during the teenage years or adulthood.In this episode, we explore how changes in the TK2 gene affect mitochondrial DNA and energy production, why symptoms can vary so widely between people, and how TK2d is inherited. We also discuss the tests that may be used during diagnosis, genetic counselling, ongoing monitoring and emergency planning, as well as current research and emerging therapies.The information in this episode is based on Mito Foundation resources. For support, call the Mito Foundation Helpline on 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au. Subscribe and follow MitoCast wherever you found this episode.

Autosomal dominant optic atrophy, or ADOA, is a rare inherited condition that affects the optic nerves and can lead to gradual changes in vision. It is one of at least 350 known types of mitochondrial disease.In this episode, we explore how ADOA can affect central and colour vision, the role of the OPA1 gene, how the condition can be inherited, and the tests that may be used during diagnosis. We also discuss ADOA plus, where some people may experience additional symptoms affecting hearing, balance, movement, muscles or nerves, as well as ongoing monitoring, support and current research.The information in this episode is based on Mito Foundation resources. For support, call the Mito Foundation Helpline on 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au. Subscribe and follow MitoCast wherever you found this episode.

Neurogenic weakness with Ataxia and Retinitis Pigmentosa, also known as NARP, is a rare type of mitochondrial disease, mito for short. It affects mitochondria, the parts of our cells that make energy, and it commonly impacts the brain, nervous system and muscles. NARP often begins in the first few months or years of life, but it can also start in the teenage years or adulthood.In this episode, we unpack what NARP can look like day to day. We explain symptoms such as muscle weakness and low muscle tone, balance and coordination changes, sensory nerve symptoms like numbness or burning pain, and vision changes that may worsen over time, including night or side-vision loss. We also explore why experiences can differ from person to person, even with the same genetic change, and point you towards support and planning resources linked in the episode description.The information in this episode is based on Mito Foundation resources, including the NARP information page. For support, call the Mito Foundation Helpline on 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au. To stay connected, subscribe and follow MitoCast wherever you found this episode.

Leigh syndrome, sometimes called Leigh’s disease, is a rare type of mitochondrial disease, mito for short. It mainly affects the brain, nervous system and muscles, and it can also impact things like vision, hearing, digestion, the lungs and the heart. Leigh syndrome often starts in the first few months or years of life, but it can also begin later, including in the teenage years or adulthood.In this episode, we talk through what Leigh syndrome can look like day to day. We explain common symptoms, and how Leigh syndrome differ from person to person, including depending on when symptoms begin.The information in this episode is based on Mito Foundation resources, including the Leigh Syndrome information page. For support, call the Mito Foundation Helpline on 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au. To stay connected, subscribe and follow MitoCast wherever you found this episode.

Myoclonic epilepsy and ragged-red fibres, or MERRF, is a rare type of mitochondrial disease (mito). It most often affects the brain, nerves and muscles. Signs and symptoms usually begin in late adolescence through adulthood, though they can occur at any age.In this episode, we talk through what MERRF can look like day to day. We explain common symptoms like sudden muscle jerks, seizures, changes in balance and coordination, and muscle weakness and fatigue, and why experiences can differ from person to person, even within the same family.The information in this episode is based on Mito Foundation resources, including the MERRF information page. For support, call the Mito Foundation Helpline on 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au. To stay connected, subscribe and follow MitoCast wherever you found this episode.

Mitochondrial Encephalopathy, Lactic Acidosis, and Stroke-like episodes, or MELAS, is a rare type of mitochondrial disease, mito for short. MELAS most often impacts the brain and muscles, and it can also affect things like the body’s hormone system, hearing, vision, and the heart. In this episode, we talk through what stroke-like episodes can look like, including seizures, changes in behaviour, and sudden changes such as weakness on one side, confusion or loss of awareness, changes in vision or hearing, and difficulty with thinking or memory. We also explain lactic acidosis in plain language, and why muscle weakness and feeling very tired after light activity can be part of MELAS. We discuss how diagnosis can involve looking at your symptoms over time and doing more than one type of test, including genetic testing, and why care can include a team approach with regular checks such as heart and hearing checks and planning for emergencies. The information in this episode is based on Mito Foundation resources, including the MELAS information page. For support, call the Mito Foundation Helpline on 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au. To stay connected, subscribe and follow MitoCast wherever you found this episode.

Leber hereditary optic neuropathy, or LHON, is a rare type of mitochondrial disease, mito for short. LHON most often affects central vision. In this episode, we talk through what LHON can look like in everyday life, including why peripheral, or side vision, may remain even when central vision changes. We explain how LHON is linked to a genetic change in mitochondrial DNA, while also noting that not everyone who carries the genetic change will develop symptoms. We also walk through how diagnosis and care can involve eye and vision tests, genetic testing, and support from low vision and rehabilitation services. We take a practical look at supports and pathways that may help, including NDIS navigation support and what kinds of information can strengthen an application.The information in this episode is based on Mito Foundation resources, including the LHON information page and the information sheet on NDIS assistance for LHON. For support, call the Mito Foundation Helpline on 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au. To stay connected, subscribe and follow MitoCast wherever you found this episode.

Kearns–Sayre syndrome, or KSS, is a rare type of mitochondrial disease, mito for short. It usually starts before the age of 20. KSS often affects the muscles around the eyes. It can also affect the back of the eye, which may change night vision or side vision. Some people may also have heart symptoms.In this episode, we talk through what KSS can look like day to day, and how it can overlap with chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia, or CPEO. We explain why diagnosis can involve looking at your symptoms over time and doing more than one type of test, including genetic testing. We also discuss the kinds of health checks that may be part of care, like eye, heart, hearing, and hormone checks.The information in this episode is based on Mito Foundation resources, including the KSS information page. For support, call the Mito Foundation Helpline on 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au. To stay connected, subscribe and follow MitoCast wherever you found this episode.

Chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia, or CPEO, is a type of mitochondrial disease (mito) that most often affects the muscles around the eyes. Some people only have eye symptoms. Others may also have things like muscle weakness, getting tired quickly with activity, or swallowing problems. In this episode, we talk through what CPEO can look like day to day, why diagnosis can take time, and why you may hear more than one name for a mito diagnosis. We also share Emy’s story.The information in this episode is based on Mito Foundation resources, including the CPEO information page. For support, call the Mito Foundation Helpline on 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au. To stay connected, subscribe and follow MitoCast wherever you found this episode.

This episode shares key tips from Dr Shanti, a metabolic geneticist. She explained why regular checks help people with mito stay safe and supported.Main points:Check hearing, heart and eyes often.Check vitamin levels and nutrition every six to twelve months.Watch for seizures, headaches or other changes.Manage fatigue with pacing, gentle activity and regular meals.Look after mental health and ask for help early.Monitoring helps pick up problems early and supports better care.Full recording, slides and summary:www.mito.org.au/resource/video/mito-community-summit-2025-monitoring-mitochondrial-disease-mito/For support, call 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au.

This episode shares key points from Dr Isabelle Adant, a paediatrician and metabolic fellow who supports people living with mito. She explained simple ways food can help with energy, muscles, bones and gut comfort.Her main tips were clear:Choose more complex carbs for steadier energy.Include protein across the whole day, not just at dinner.Make sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D for bone strength.Drink enough fluids and adjust meals if gut symptoms flare.She reminded everyone that food should not feel stressful. Small changes can help, and support is there if eating is hard.The full recording, slides and written summary are at:www.mito.org.au/resource/video/mito-community-summit-2025-eating-well-with-mito/For support, call the Mito Foundation Helpline on 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au.

Momentum in mitochondrial disease (mito) research is building, and this episode brings you the February Mito Community Newsletter in a clear, listener-friendly way, from progress in clinical studies and approvals, to the practical supports and community actions that help turn momentum into access in Australia.In this episode, we share an update from Mito Foundation CEO Sean Murray, spotlight Rare Disease Day and ways to take part, and walk through key opportunities and updates including The Bloody Long Walk, an Australian clinical trial for autosomal dominant optic atrophy (ADOA), the Phase 2b PRIZM study milestone for MELAS, and a European regulatory step for KYGEVVI for TK2 deficiency (TK2d). We also cover ways to strengthen community data through the Mito Registry, a resource to help adults build a supportive care team, wellbeing and connection opportunities, and where to find Mito Foundation support services.Read the newsletter online: February NewsExplore Mito Foundation resources and events: www.mito.org.au

This episode shares updates from Dr Serge Geara, neurologist and mito fellow at NeuRA. He explained why mito is hard to treat and what new research is happening.Key points:New treatments like elamipretide, BIO101, KL133, REN001, NV354 and zagociguat are being studied.Research is early and still testing safety and effect.Biomarkers may help track mito in the future.The full recording, slides and written summary of this session are on our website:www.mito.org.au/resource/video/mito-community-summit-2025-whats-happening-in-clinical-trials-now/To stay connected, subscribe to the Mito Foundation Podcast. For support, call the Helpline on 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au.

From advocacy and research to practical supports, this episode shares the key updates shaping the year ahead for the mito community.In this episode, we walk through highlights from the January community newsletter, explain what’s happening behind the scenes at Mito Foundation, and share where to find trusted support and resources. It’s for people living with mito, families, and anyone who wants to stay informed about Mito Foundation priorities.

This episode shares key points from a panel led by Clare Stuart, with speakers Lani Quirk, Jessica Stevenson, Dr Sebastian Lush and Monique Alves. They explained how trials work and what they mean for people living with mito.Main messages:Trials test if new treatments are safe and useful.Not everyone will be eligible, and trials take time and effort.People’s lived experience helps shape future treatments.The full recording, slides and written summary of this session are on our website:www.mito.org.au/resource/video/mito-community-summit-2025-clinical-trials-panel/To stay connected, subscribe to the Mito Foundation Podcast. For support, call the Helpline on 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au.

This episode shares key points from Dr Christina Liang, a neurologist who supports people living with mito. She explained what we know about supplements, what we don’t know yet, and how to make safe choices.Her main tips were simple:Check and treat basic low levels first (vitamin D, iron, folate, B12).Be careful with high-dose vitamin C and vitamin B6.Try one supplement at a time and track one symptom.The full recording, slides and written summary of Dr Liang’s talk are on our website:www.mito.org.au/resource/video/drliang-supplements/To stay connected, subscribe to the Mito Foundation Podcast. For support, call the Helpline on 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au.

This episode gives a short overview of the 2025 Mito Community Summit. People living with mito, families, health professionals and researchers came together for two days of learning and support.Main points:The Summit covered supplements, gut health, nutrition, clinical trials, emotional wellbeing and care standards.Speakers shared simple, practical ideas to help with daily life.Many people said the best part was meeting others and feeling understood.All Summit presentations, including recordings, slides and written summaries, are on our website:www.mito.org.au/mito_community_summit/To stay connected, subscribe to the Mito Foundation Podcast. For support, call the Helpline on 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au.

Living with mito means looking after your whole self — your body, your relationships, and your mind. This episode explores how mental health and wellbeing are part of that balance.It covers simple, practical ways to care for your mental health, what to do when things feel hard, and where to find trusted support, including the Mito Foundation Wellbeing Hub and Beyond Blue.The information in this episode is based on Mito Foundation resources, including mito.org.au/mental-health-support/.To stay connected, subscribe to the Mito Foundation Podcast wherever you found this episode. For further support, contact the Mito Foundation Helpline on 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au for more information.

This episode gives you an overview of the key updates from Mito Foundation’s November newsletter. We touch on global progress in new treatments, early steps in mitochondrial donation, highlights from the Mito Community Summit, and a few summer wellbeing reminders.You’ll hear the latest news, what it means for people living with mito, and where to find more details if you want to dive deeper. To stay connected, subscribe to MitoCast wherever you found this episode. For further support, contact the Mito Foundation Helpline on 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au for more information.

Exercise can help your body make and use energy more efficiently. But knowing where to start can be tricky. In this episode, we talk about how movement supports your mitochondria, ways to begin safely, and tips to make exercise part of everyday life.It covers how to build strength, balance, and endurance at your own pace, with insights from people living with mito andguidance on working with health professionals who understand your needs.The information in this episode is based on Mito Foundation resources exercise and mito. To stay connected, subscribe to the Mito Foundation channel wherever you found this episode. For further support, contact the Mito Foundation Helpline on 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au for more information.

Fatigue is one of the most common and challenging symptoms of mito, but it’s also one of the hardest to explain. In this episode, we explore what fatigue really means, how it feels, what causes it, and what can help.It covers the science behind fatigue, insights from people living with mito, and current research into sleep and energy. You’ll also hear practical tips for managing fatigue day to day, and ideas for talking with your health professional about symptoms and support.The information in this episode is based on Mito Foundation resources, including Fatigue and mito.To stay connected, subscribe to the Mito Foundation channel wherever you found this episode. For further support, contact the Mito Foundation Helpline on 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au for more information.

Have you ever left a medical appointment thinking, “I forgot to ask half my questions”? You’re not alone. In this episode of MitoCast, we talk about how a little preparation can help you make every appointment count. Whether you’re an adult living with mitochondrial disease or supporting a child, being organised before you walk in can make a big difference.We share practical tips on what to do before, during, and after your appointment. It covers how to:gather your health information and set clear goals ask the right questions and follow up afterwards.You'll also hear ways to advocate for yourself or your child, and how to use supports like telehealth and travel assistance if you live regionally.The episode includes information and guidance from:·       Preparing for a medical appointment·       My Health Record·       Making health and medical decisions·       Access to health care in rural and remote Australia·       Be your own advocate / Be your child’s advocate·       Australian Patient Care StandardsTake charge of your care, one appointment at a time. For more information and support, visit mito.org.au or call our Helpline on 1300 977 180.

Mitochondrial disease, or mito, can affect many parts of the body in different ways. Common symptoms include weak muscles, vision loss, seizures, gut problems, and heart rhythm changes.In this episode, we explain what these symptoms mean and how they vary between people. We'll also cover why spotting them early matters. MitoCast is for people living with mito, their families, and anyone who wants to understand how mito can affect everyday life.The information in this episode is based on Mito Foundation’s resource Understanding Symptoms of Mito.To stay connected, subscribe and follow MitoCast wherever you found this episode. For further support, contact the MitoFoundation Helpline on 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au for more information.Read the episode transcript.

Genetics can feel like a big, complicated subject, but understanding the basics makes it much clearer. In this episode, we take you on a step-by-step journey through cells, DNA, genes, and chromosomes, and show how they all connect to mito. You’ll learn how genetic changes in nuclear DNA and mitochondrial DNA can affect energy production, why inheritance patterns matter, and how genetic testingworks in Australia. We also look at the emotional and practical sides of testing, from family planning to access to clinical studies. This episode is for people living with mito, their families, and anyone curious about how genetics shapes diagnosis, care, and future treatments. The information in this episode is based on Mito Foundation resources:Genetics and mitoGenetic testing and mitoGenetic counselling and mitoGenetic treatment of mito — How close are we? To stay connected, subscribe to the Mito Foundation channel wherever you found this episode. For further support, contact the Mito Foundation Helpline on 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au for more information. Read the episode transcript

When you’re living with mitochondrial disease (mito), the health system can feel complex and overwhelming. This episode explores how to build a supportive care team, access services, and keep care coordinated.It covers what a care team is, who might be involved, and how specialists, GPs, paediatricians, genetic health professionals, and allied health can work together to support you. You’ll also hear about practical tools like clinical alerts, telehealth, and care coordination strategies that can make managing mito easier. This episode is for people living with mito, their families, and their support networks who want clarity and confidence when navigating care. The information in this episode is based on Mito Foundation resources, including:Build a care team for adultsBuild a care team forchildrenBuilding a care team in rural and remote AustraliaMito Clinic Directory & Mito Professionals DirectoryBe your own advocateBe your child’s advocate  To stay connected, subscribe to the Mito Foundation channel wherever you found this episode. For further support, contact the Mito Foundation Helpline on 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au for more information.Read the episode transcript.

Mitochondrial disease, or mito, affects thousands of Australians, yet many people have never heard of it. In this episode, we unpack what mito is, how it impacts the body,and what it means for people living with mito and those who want to learn more.It covers the basics of how mitochondria work, what happens when they don’t make enough energy, common symptoms, different types of mito, and how it is diagnosed andmanaged. Whether you are newly diagnosed, supporting a loved one, or simply curious, this episode will help you understand mito in plain, simple language.The information in this episode is based on Mito Foundation resources, including:About Mitochondrial DiseaseUnderstanding Your Diagnosis – AdultUnderstanding Your Child’s Diagnosis To stay connected, subscribe to MitoCast wherever you found this episode. For further support, contact the Mito Foundation Helpline on 1300 977 180 or visit mito.org.au for more information.Access the episode transcript