Scientists at IIT Kharagpur have found a fresh clue in cancer research. A multi-cancer study shows that the amount of mitochondrial DNA in cells is closely linked to how aggressive a tumor becomes.

Mitochondria are the cell’s energy units. They carry their own small DNA, called mtDNA, which is essential for their function. The team, led by Riddhiman Dhar, analysed mtDNA copy numbers across several cancers. They found a clear correlation between mtDNA levels and the extent of genetic mutations inside cancer cells.

High mtDNA copy numbers were tied to genes that help tumors grow and survive. The levels also tracked with genes linked to chemotherapy response. The researchers say rising mtDNA may be the cell’s way of compensating for damaged mitochondria, a signature of impaired energy function.

The study was published in The FEBS Journal in 2026. Dhar said the findings could open deeper study of mitochondria in cancer and shape new management strategies. The work shows association, not a cure, and more research is needed before any clinical use.