Question

Is mitochondrial DNA inherited from the mother or father?

Answer 1

Fertilization:

1. It is the term, given to the fusion of male gamete (sperm) and female gamete (ovum).
2. The sperm gives only its nucleus which is released into the egg cell.

The ovum:

1. The ovum contains cellular organelles and a nucleus that fuses with the sperm nucleus.
2. The mitochondria of the zygote are of the mother (ovum).

Therefore, mitochondrial DNA is inherited from the mother.