Question

Why do Mitochondria have their own DNA ?

Answer 1

Although most DNA is packaged in chromosomes within the nucleus,mitochondria also have a small amount of their own DNA. This genetic material is known as mitochondrial DNA or mtDNA.

Function of Mitochondria DNA
Function of Mitochondria DNA. Mitochondria are tiny organelles that are often referred to as the energy powerhouses of cells or our body's batteries. Their prime function is to take in the sugars that have been converted from the food we eat, and turn them into a form of energy that cells can use.Each mitochondrion spans 16 kilobases encoding 37 genes.

Why is Mitochondria DNA Important?
Mitochondrial DNA is important for a number of reasons. 13 of its 37 genes are involved in the process known as oxidative phosphorylation. This is the metabolic pathway that produces adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the main energy source of the cell. The remaining 24 genes are involved in the creation of transfer RNA(tRNA) and ribosomal RNA (rRNA) which help to turn amino acids into proteins.