A situation where mtDNA might be used is what?

A. When there is a large amount of nuclear DNA
B. On the teeth and bones of skeletalized human remains
C. On a victim who has just died
D. When blood is present at the scene

Question

A situation where mtDNA might be used is what?

A. When there is a large amount of nuclear DNA
B. On the teeth and bones of skeletalized human remains
C. On a victim who has just died
D. When blood is present at the scene

anonymous · Answer

mtDNA is from the mitochondria.  It is pass only from mother to offspring, there is no paternal DNA in mtDNA.  Except for mutations, the mitochondrial genome of all offspring are identical to the mother.

anonymous · Answer

Would it be B? I'm stuck between that and D.

anonymous · Answer

@thelonetomato I think B is the best option.  You would probably do both with D, nuclear and mitochondrial.  However, you want the easiest method for DNA in the skeletal remains.  While every cell (excluding red blood cells) has a nucleus, many cells have more than one mitochondria.  In some cells of certain organisms, up-to 1/5 of the volume is mitochondria.

anonymous · Answer

Thank you :)