23 May 1998

I am technician at Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, MO and I need some help.  I perform clinical diagnostic testing for mitochondrial mutations involving the MERRF and MELAS diseases.  As I am sure those familiar with these diseases are well aware, they are quite rare.  It is for this reason that I lack quality positive controls for some of the mutations.  Thus, I was wondering if anyone knew of anywhere from which I might obtain positives controls for any of the MERRF or MELAS mutations in any form: cell lines, DNA, etc.

I would appreciate any help or advice.

Thank you