MICROANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -Mitochondrial DNA is the circular chromosome found inside the cellular organelles called mitochondria. Located in the cytoplasm, mitochondria are the site of the cell’s energy production and other metabolic functions. Offspring inherit mitochondria-and as a result mitochondrial DNA-from their mother.

Detailed explanation-2: -Mammalian mitochondria contain multiple copies of a circular, double-stranded DNA genome and a dedicated DNA replication machinery is required for its maintenance.

Detailed explanation-3: -In humans, mitochondrial DNA spans about 16, 500 DNA building blocks (base pairs), representing a small fraction of the total DNA in cells. Mitochondrial DNA contains 37 genes, all of which are essential for normal mitochondrial function.