Portions of the nuclear DNA of many modern humans have similarity to either Denisovan or Neanderthal nuclear DNA, however human mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is more similar to Denisovan mtDNA than to Neanderthal mtDNA. Why might this be the case?

Question

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The similarity of human mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) to Denisovan mtDNA suggests a maternal lineage connection, as mtDNA is inherited maternally. This implies that Denisovan females contributed to the gene pool of modern humans, likely through matings with human males.

Portions of the Nuclear DNA of Many Modern Humans Have