MRPL22 encodes mitochondrial ribosomal protein L22, a structural component of the large ribosomal subunit essential for mitochondrial protein synthesis 1. As a nuclear-encoded mitochondrial ribosomal protein, MRPL22 is required for proper mitochondrial function and energy production through its role in mitochondrial translation 1. Loss of MRPL22 in mouse embryos results in compromised ATP production, abnormal mitochondrial morphology, and developmental arrest at the pre-gastrulation stage, indicating its critical role during early mammalian development 1. The protein functions as a structural constituent of the ribosome and exhibits RNA binding activity within the mitochondrial inner membrane 1. MRPL22 has emerged as a potential biomarker in multiple disease contexts, including ankylosing spondylitis, where it shows altered expression patterns and is identified as a hub gene in protein-protein interaction networks 23. Additionally, MRPL22 is implicated in various pathological conditions including ischemic stroke, gestational diabetes mellitus, and lung adenocarcinoma, where its dysregulation affects mitochondrial translation and cellular energy metabolism 456. The gene's involvement in these diverse disease states underscores its fundamental importance in cellular energy homeostasis and suggests potential therapeutic relevance.