Mitochondrial DNA
Definition
Mitochondrial DNA is a small circular chromosome found inside mitochondria. These organelles found in cells have their own genetic material separate from the nucleus.
Analogy
Consider mitochondrial DNA as the personal diary kept by mitochondria. Just like how diaries contain personal histories and experiences unique to an individual, mitochondrial DNA contains genes and information unique to the mitochondrion itself.
Related terms
Mitochondrion: An organelle found in large numbers in most cells, responsible for energy production through respiration and controlling cell cycle and growth.
Maternal Inheritance: The transmission of genes that occur via the cytoplasmic organelles—specifically mitochondria—from mother to offspring.
Genome: The complete set of genes or genetic material present in a cell or organism.
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