How is mitochondrial DNA different from nuclear DNA?
Mitochondria have their own mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), which is distinct from the cell's nuclear DNA. Mitochondrial DNA is circular and encodes genes essential for mitochondrial function. Unlike nuclear DNA, mtDNA is inherited maternally and is more prone to mutations due to its proximity to the electron transport chain and limited repair mechanisms. These mutations can lead to a variety of mitochondrial disorders.
