So, Doctor, what is LHON? mitochondria. Those are the things in cells that supply energy. They're in the cytoplasm, yes? LHON is a disease of the mitochondria.

So, Doctor, what is

LHON?

mitochondria. Those are the things in

cells that supply energy. They're in the cytoplasm, yes?

LHON is a disease of the mitochondria.

That's right! Now

what do you know about genes?

Genes control a lot of your features – like your eye colour. You get them from your dad’s sperm

cell and your mum’s egg cell.

Well done!What normally

happens when a sperm fertilises

an egg?

The sperm nucleus gets into the egg. Then the egg nucleus and sperm nucleus join together to make your first complete cell.

Exactly!But whose

mitochondria did you get?

Yes. And I am afraid there's no treatment. But scientists are working on it. Let me explain.

That's right!

But mitochondria have a few genes in

them, and Maya's are faulty. That's why she

went blind.

All your mitochondria come from your mum. You only get a nucleus

from your dad.

So her children will go blind too?

Right, Darcy. I'll let you get back to your patients.

You'll have to tell Maya and Jake that there is no

solution to their problem. There might be a treatment

in future, but will it be too late?

Plan what to say to Maya and Jake. Prepare diagrams to help you explain:

How 2-parent fertilisation usually happens The scientists' idea for 3-parent fertilisation Why and how 3-parent fertilisation might

help them in future…if they can wait.

Can I ask you something else? I'm

thinking of become a nurse or health care assistant. Can you tell me about your

work?

So what skills do health care

assistants and nurses need?

My job is not easy. I have to tell people difficult things. I need to be

emotionally strong and physically fit. I have to

stay calm in a crisis. But I love my work. It's really

rewarding. And there's no chance to get bored!

What about qualifications?

Here – take a look at

this leaflet.

Health Care Assistants support other health professionals in hospitals or homes. You do not need academic qualifications, but experience in a caring role is helpful (try doing volunteer work with your local NHS Trust). Most health care assistants work towards NVQ levels 2 or 3 in 'health' or 'health and social care'. With NVQ Level 3 you could start a university-based nursing diploma.

With 5 A-C grades at GCSE (including English) at aged 17½ you could begin a 3 year diploma course at university to train to be a nurse. You get a bursary of about £100 per week and all your fees are paid.

With A Levels, including at least one in a relevant science, you could begin a 4-year degree course.

Nurses with diplomas or degrees