What is the difference between nuclear and mitochondrial DNA testing?

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Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) molecules are, in the most basic terms, the information storage unit of the cell--the building block for every known organism and many viruses. Most references to DNA actually refer to nuclear DNA, but another type, known as mitochondrial DNA, is less well known.

Nuclear DNA

Nuclear DNA (nDNA) is housed in the nucleus, the central part of the cell.

Mitochondrial DNA

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is found in the mitochondria, the energy-producing part of the cell.

Inheritance

Nuclear DNA is a combination of the DNA from the mother and father of the organism. Mitochondrial DNA comes from the mother only.

Finding a Sample

Nuclear DNA can be determined through multiple body secretions, including semen, saliva, blood, bone, tooth and hair roots. Mitochondrial DNA can be found in less complete samples, including bone fragments or a single hair shaft.

Testing for Identification

Nuclear DNA is the form most court cases and forensic tests use. Technology for matching nuclear DNA is older and more reliable. However, mitochondrial DNA testing is useful for identifying disaster victims in which nuclear DNA may have deteriorated. Up to 1000 copies of mtDNA are in a single cell, making it more likely to be found in deteriorated cells.

Source:

Defining DNA

Nuclear and Mitochondrial DNA in the Courtroom; Julian Adams, PhD

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What is the difference between nuclear and mitochondrial DNA testing?

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