Mitochondrial DNA
Mitochondrial DNA
Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA or mDNA) is the DNA located in mitochondria, cellular organelles within eukaryotic cells that convert chemical energy from food into a form that cells can use, adenosine triphosphate (ATP).
Pronunciation
mi·to·chon·dri·al DNA /ˌmīdəˈkändrēəl ˈdēˌenˈā/
Etymology
The term "mitochondrial DNA" is derived from the Greek words "mitos" meaning thread, and "chondrion" meaning granule, referring to the thread-like and granular appearance of mitochondria under a microscope. The term "DNA" is an acronym for deoxyribonucleic acid, the molecule that carries genetic information in living organisms.
Function
Mitochondrial DNA is unique in that it is inherited solely from the mother and is separate from the nuclear DNA that makes up the majority of the organism's genetic material. It is primarily responsible for encoding proteins involved in the electron transport chain, a series of protein complexes that generate energy for the cell.
Related Terms
- Mitochondria: The organelles in which mitochondrial DNA is found.
- Electron transport chain: The process for which the proteins encoded by mitochondrial DNA are primarily responsible.
- Nuclear DNA: The DNA found in the nucleus of a cell, distinct from mitochondrial DNA.
- Adenosine triphosphate (ATP): The molecule that cells use for energy, produced by the mitochondria.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Mitochondrial DNA
- Wikipedia's article - Mitochondrial DNA
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