Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA or mDNA) is the DNA located in mitochondria, cellular organelles within eukaryotic cells that convert chemical energy from food into a form that cells can use, adenosine triphosphate (ATP).
Mitochondrial DNA Testing
The main use of Mitochondrial DNA testing is to be able to confirm relations on the direct female line, and exclude people who are not related.
This test is perfect if you have reached a dead end on your direct maternal line. It is also great to try and find relatives if you happen to be adopted and are searching for your biological birth family.
Who Can Test
Males
Females
Why? Both males and females receive mtDNA from their mothers, so both men and women can test their mtDNA.
As the image represents mtDNA is inherited from the mother to her children.