Mitochondrial genomics

Mitochondrial genomics is the study of the DNA found in mitochondria, the energy-producing structures in our cells. Unlike nuclear DNA, which comes from both parents, mitochondrial DNA is inherited only from the mother. This makes it useful for tracing lineage and studying evolutionary relationships. Researchers analyze variations in mitochondrial DNA to understand genetic diseases, population migration, and even aspects of human evolution. By comparing mitochondrial genomes across different species or individuals, scientists can gain insights into genetics, ancestry, and how we are connected to one another and to other organisms.