Where is mitochondrial DNA found?

Mitochondrial DNA is specifically located within the mitochondria of a cell. Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell because they generate most of the cell's supply of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is used as a source of chemical energy. Unlike nuclear DNA, which is found within the nucleus of the cell and packs genetic information for the development and functioning of the organism, mitochondrial DNA is distinct and derives mainly from the maternal lineage. This unique location allows it to be involved in energy production and plays a significant role in various cellular functions, as well as in the inheritance of certain genetic traits. Mitochondrial DNA can also provide valuable information in forensic science and ancestry studies due to its maternal inheritance pattern.