Mitochondria are well known as the powerhouse of the cell. Recent work shows that in addition, these symbiotic organelles, which are very likely derived from an independently existing ancestor (Margulis 1993), can play a role in learning, memory and cognition. The role of mitochondria in brain disorders of mice and men was reported five years ago by Wallace (1999); also, memory loss in old rats has been associated with mitochondrial decay (Liu et al 1999). Roubertoux et al (2003) tried to provide direct evidence for the role played by mitochondrial DNA in cognitive functions. Their basic approach is beautiful in its simplicity.
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机译：线粒体是众所周知的细胞动力源。最近的工作表明，此外，这些共生细胞器很可能来自一个独立存在的祖先（Margulis 1993），可以在学习，记忆和认知中发挥作用。 Wallace（1999）报道线粒体在小鼠和男性脑部疾病中的作用。同样，老年大鼠记忆力的丧失与线粒体的衰弱有关（Liu et al 1999）。 Roubertoux等人（2003年）试图为线粒体DNA在认知功能中的作用提供直接证据。他们的基本方法很简单。
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