The mitochondrial DNA first sequenced in 1981 which is used as a
basis for comparison with mtDNA test results is Cambridge
Reference Sequence (CRS) Both men and women may take this test.
It traces the direct maternal line without influence from other
lines. This test is for HVR1(16001-16569) of the mitochondrial
DNA. A panel of twenty-two SNPs is included for backbone
haplogroup placement. Results identify the ethnic and geographic
origin of the maternal line. FtDna Mitochondrial is passed from
mother to child. Since only females pass on their mtDNA, testing
the mtDNA tells about the mother, to her mother, and so on along
the direct maternal line. Both males and females receive mtDNA
from their mothers, so both men and women can test their mtDNA.
While mutations occur in mitochondrial DNA, the rate of mutation
is relatively slow. Over thousands of years these mutations
build up so that one female line will have a sequence
distinguishable from another. As people spread throughout the
world, mutations occasiona