A pedigree analysis reveals that a specific genetic disorder is passed exclusively from affected mothers to all of their children, regardless of sex. Affected fathers do not transmit the disorder to any of their offspring. This mode of inheritance is characteristic of mutations in which of the following?
✓ Correct Answer: Option C
Mitochondrial DNA is inherited exclusively from the mother, as the ovum contributes almost all mitochondria to the zygote. Thus, all offspring of an affected mother inherit the trait, while none of an affected father do.