Mitochondrial DNA A1555G mutation screening using a testing kit method and its significance in preventing aminoglycoside-related hearing loss

To report a new screening method for mitochondrial DNA 1555A→G mutation and the results of genotype analysis in 19 maternal inherited deafness pedigrees.MethodFive hundred and forty-six non-syndromic neuro-sensory hearing loss patients were tested for 1555A→G mutation using a new compact testing kit, which allows clear distinction between wild type and 1555 A→G mutated mtDNAs.ResultsNineteen subjects among the 546 patients (3.48%) were found to carry mtDNAA1555G mutation. The results were confirmed by sequencing in an ABI 3100 Avant sequencer.ConclusionsMaternal inherited deafness families are a frequently seen in outpatient group. The detection of mtDNA 1555 A→G mutation with a low cost, ready to use detection kit is needed and suitable in China for large scale screening and preventive testing before usage of aminoglycoside antibiotics.