Mitochondrial DNA
Definition
DNA associated with mitochondria, with inheritance and discrimination different from standard nuclear STR profiles. Shortened STR designs can improve access to some fragmented targets, while mitochondrial analysis addresses a different inherited genome.
- Context
- DNA recovery
For example, shared maternal-line sequence information can support an association while providing a different level of discrimination from nuclear STR analysis.
Select the method for the material and question.
Neither method guarantees a complete profile from degraded evidence.
Related terms
- Biological Evidence
- Biological evidence is material of biological origin examined to address a forensic question, including tissue, fluids, hair or trace biological components. Its...
- Chromatin
- Chromatin is the organised association of DNA with proteins and other components within chromosomes. Its packaging influences access to genetic information and...
- Contact DNA
- A practical description of DNA recovered from a contact area, without proving the transfer route. It can include different biological components and...
- Heteroplasmy
- The co-existence of two or more mitochondrial DNA sequence variants within a single individual, arising from somatic mutation or incomplete segregation. Length...
- Inhibition
- Interference with an assay by substances or conditions, distinct from loss or fragmentation of the target. An internal control can help assess...
- Keratinisation
- Differentiation that produces durable keratin-rich material while altering cellular structures. Hair formation, retention and shedding involve different structures and processes. Document orientation...
- Nuclear DNA
- Nuclear DNA is DNA associated with a cell’s nuclear chromosomes, distinct from the mitochondrial genome. Forensic methods examine selected regions or other...
- Nucleus
- A nucleus is a membrane-bound cellular compartment containing nuclear chromosomes in a typical nucleated eukaryotic cell. Its presence can guide biological examination,...
Explained in these topics
- Cell Structure and Organelles for Forensic ScientistsThe mitochondrial genome, with copy number and inheritance distinct from nuclear chromosomes.
- The Scope of Biological Evidence in Forensic Science