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mitochondrial DNA
noun
: an extranuclear double-stranded DNA found exclusively in mitochondria that in most eukaryotes is a circular molecule and is maternally inherited
—abbreviation mtDNA
Examples of mitochondrial DNA in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Additionally, scientists from the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System used mitochondrial DNA and mitochondrial genome analysis, according to the release.
—Nwa Democrat-Gazette, arkansasonline.com, 4 Oct. 2024
However, additional studies are needed to understand how mitochondrial DNA mutations are passed down.
—William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 13 Sep. 2024
Genetic analysis using mitochondrial DNA markers provided additional confirmation of their suspicions.
—Melissa Cristina Marquez, Forbes, 16 Sep. 2024
Researchers have the genome of the girl, as well as bits of nuclear and mitochondrial DNA from fragmentary fossils—teeth, a toe bone—of seven additional individuals, all also from Denisova Cave.
—Byann Gibbons, science.org, 11 July 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1964, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of mitochondrial DNA was
in 1964
Dictionary Entries Near mitochondrial DNA
Cite this Entry
“Mitochondrial DNA.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mitochondrial%20DNA. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.
Medical Definition
mitochondrial DNA
noun
: an extranuclear double-stranded DNA found exclusively in mitochondria that in most eukaryotes is a circular molecule and is maternally inherited
called also mtDNA
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