Stroke-Like Episodes in Mitochondrial Myopathy, Encephalopathy, Lactic Acidosis, and Stroke-Like Episodes (MELAS)

Nearly 40 years have passed since the initial description of MELAS (mitochondrial myopathy, encephalopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes). The factors that mediate the pathogenesis and mechanism of MELAS syndrome remain elusive, as have effective therapies. In this review, we discuss the current basis of understanding and theories relating to the common phenotypic features of MELAS, in particular the pathognomonic “stroke-like episodes,” as well as implications towards future therapeutic developments.