Mitochondrial DNA control region variation in an Iraqi population sample.

Background: Although Iraq has one of the world's oldest cultural histories and an important geographic location, forensic reference data on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region in Iraqi populations are scarce, particularly for populations residing in the southern part of Iraq. Mitochondrial DNA typing is an excellent tool for forensic investigations and in missing-person cases because of its unique qualities, such as mtDNA non-coding control region with specific genetic markers, high copy numbers in cells, maternal inheritance, and lack of recombination.

Methods: Forensic analysis was performed on the entire mtDNA control region in 203 unrelated Iraqi individuals residing in Samawah City of Iraq.