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mt-tRNA Fragments

Meaning

mt-tRNA Fragments are small, non-coding RNA molecules derived from the cleavage of mitochondrial transfer RNAs (mt-tRNAs), which are essential for protein synthesis within the mitochondria. These fragments are increasingly recognized as important signaling molecules that can be released from cells, acting as damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) that trigger innate immune responses and inflammation. Their presence in circulation is being investigated as a novel, sensitive biomarker of mitochondrial stress, cellular damage, and overall metabolic dysfunction, offering insights into aging and chronic disease states relevant to hormonal health.