Question

Dna analysis is usually done using dna found in a cell's mitochondria, and not in a cell's nucleus. From your knowledge of mitosis, explain why this is so.

Answer 1

The mutation rate in mtDNA is ten times higher than in nuclear DNA because mtDNA are subject to damage from reactive oxygen molecules released as a byproduct during OXPHOS. In addition, the mtDNA also lacks the DNA repair mechanisms found in the nucleus.

Answer 2

Answer:

Each cell contains hundreds to thousands of mitochondria, which are located in the fluid that surrounds the nucleus (the cytoplasm).