The Dolan DNA Learning Center at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory presents this multi-faceted educational Web site as part of the online feature "Genetic Origins: The study of human evolution begins with your own DNA." The Mitochondrial Control Region Web pages provides a comprehensive introduction (including first-hand lab experience) to the same methods researchers use to retrace the common maternal lineage of modern humans and our relationship to Neandertal. The site includes detailed introductory material (complete with animations and a video interview with the director of the Department of Evolutionary Genetics, Max Planck Institute); procedures for DNA isolation, amplification, and analysis; in-depth lab exercises; and much more. College level or advanced high school biology classes with sufficient time and resources shouldn't hesitate to take full advantage of the challenging activities and opportunities offered through this Web site.