Is mitochondrial DNA involved in mouse behavioral laterality?

The genetic effect of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) on behavioral laterality was investigated in a quartet of strains of laboratory mice congenic for mtDNA. The pattern of restriction of mtDNA differed in NZB/BINJ and CBA/H mice. Their respective congenics for mtDNA were developed until the 22nd generation. This quartet was tested under three independent conditions involving fore- and hind paw preference or performance (laterality tests) and body orientation. Evidence for the implication of mtDNA was observed on direction of laterality in two test conditions and on degree of laterality in the three test conditions.