Lipid increases in European eel (Anguilla anguilla) in Scotland 1986-2008: an assessment of physical parameters and the influence of organic pollutants.

Recruitment of the European eel (Anguilla anguilla) has fallen steadily in recent decades, with current levels understood to be at around 5% of those in the 1970s, and the species is now widely recognised as being endangered. Changes in ocean currents, climate shifts, habitat loss, overfishing, barriers to migration, increased predation, plastic litter and exposure to chemicals have all been postulated as potential causative factors. Several studies have shown a general decline in eel quality (lower lipid content and body condition) over time that may be linked to reduced reproductive success.

mt4216C variant in linkage with the mtDNA TJ cluster may confer a susceptibility to mitochondrial dysfunction resulting in an increased risk of Parkinson's disease in the Irish.

Polymorphism of the mtDNA genome has been implicated as playing a role in the development and pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). A PCR-RFLP methodology was employed to generate genetic haplotypes for a cohort of 90 PD sufferers. No association was observed between the various mtDNA haplotypes observed and PD in comparison to healthy aged controls.