What is the Clinical Significance of COX-Negative Fibers?
The detection of COX-negative fibers has significant clinical implications. An increased number of these fibers may suggest the presence of a mitochondrial disorder, prompting further diagnostic testing and intervention. For instance, muscle biopsies showing a high proportion of COX-negative fibers can lead to genetic testing for mitochondrial DNA mutations or nuclear gene mutations associated with mitochondrial function. Additionally, the presence of COX-negative fibers in aging individuals might contribute to the understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind age-related muscle weakness and frailty.
