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Which organelle in the cell, other than nucleus, contains DNA ?
Explanation
In eukaryotic cells, while the majority of genetic material is housed within the nucleus, specific organelles possess their own independent DNA. Mitochondria, often referred to as the powerhouse of the cell, contain mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) [3]. This organellar DNA is typically double-stranded and circular, resembling bacterial chromosomes, which supports the endosymbiotic theory of their origin [3]. Mitochondria use this genetic material to produce some of their own proteins and can replicate independently of the cell's nuclear division [1]. Other organelles like the endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and lysosomes do not contain DNA; they function primarily in protein synthesis, packaging, and waste recycling respectively [1]. In plants, chloroplasts also contain their own DNA, but among the provided options, only mitochondria is a correct choice [3].
Sources
- [1] https://medlineplus.gov/download/genetics/understanding/basics.pdf
- [3] https://www.nature.com/scitable/topicpage/eukaryotic-cells-14023963/