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What genes are inherited from mother only?

Published in Maternal Inheritance 1 min read

You inherit mitochondrial DNA exclusively from your mother. This DNA, found in the mitochondria, is responsible for energy production within cells. Unlike the nuclear DNA found in the nucleus of a cell, which you inherit from both parents, mitochondrial DNA is passed down solely through the maternal line.

Examples:

  • Mitochondrial diseases: These can be caused by mutations in the mitochondrial DNA and are often inherited from the mother.
  • Tracing ancestry: Mitochondrial DNA is used to trace maternal lineages and can be helpful in understanding human history and evolution.

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