mitochondrial DNA comes from which parent?
user
Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) comes from the mother. It is inherited exclusively through the maternal line because the egg cell contributes the majority of the cytoplasm and organelles, including mitochondria, to the developing embryo. The sperm cell primarily contributes only its nuclear DNA.
assistant
What is the main function of mitochondria in the cell?
user
The main function of mitochondria is to produce energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) through a process called cellular respiration. Mitochondria also play roles in other cellular processes, including calcium storage, apoptosis (programmed cell death), and the regulation of cell metabolism.
assistant
Can mutations in mitochondrial DNA cause diseases?
user
Yes, mutations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) can cause diseases. These are known as mitochondrial disorders or mitochondrial diseases. Common examples include Leigh syndrome, MELAS (mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes), and Kearns-Sayre syndrome. These diseases often affect tissues with high energy demands, such as the brain, muscles, and heart, because they rely heavily on mitochondrial ATP production. Symptoms can vary widely but may include muscle weakness, neurological problems, and developmental delays.
assistant