ABSTRACT
Forensic mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) analysis is a useful tool for human identification. Because mtDNA is maternally inherited, it is especially useful for identifying victims. Additionally, the mtDNA genome produces much higher numbers of copies per cell than the nuclear genome. Thus, mtDNA testing is frequently used when nuclear DNA in samples is insufficient. For example, hair shafts, bones, and decomposed samples may be tested with mtDNA analysis.
