Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
How is mitochondrial DNA inherited in most organisms?
A
Randomly from either parent
B
Through the maternal line
C
Through the paternal line
D
Equally from both parents
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is distinct from nuclear DNA, as it is located in the mitochondria rather than the cell nucleus.
Recognize that mitochondria are organelles responsible for energy production in cells and contain their own DNA, which is separate from the DNA found in the nucleus.
Learn that in most organisms, mtDNA is inherited maternally, meaning it is passed down from the mother to her offspring.
This maternal inheritance occurs because the mitochondria in the sperm are typically not involved in fertilization; only the mitochondria from the egg contribute to the embryo.
Therefore, the correct understanding is that mitochondrial DNA is inherited through the maternal line, not randomly or from both parents.