Mitochondria Structure and Function

Study Notes

Structure and Function

Mitochondria are organelles found in the cells of most eukaryotes, including animals, plants, and fungi.
They are often referred to as the "powerhouses" of the cell because they generate most of the energy that the cell needs to function.

Mitochondrial Structure

Mitochondria have two main parts: the outer membrane and the inner membrane.
The outer membrane is permeable and allows certain substances to pass through.
The inner membrane is impermeable and folded into a series of cristae, which increase the surface area for energy production.
The space between the outer and inner membranes is called the intermembrane space.
The space inside the inner membrane is called the mitochondrial matrix.

Energy Production

Mitochondria produce energy for the cell through cellular respiration.
Cellular respiration involves the breakdown of glucose and other organic molecules to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate).
There are three main stages of cellular respiration: glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation.
Mitochondria are the site of the citric acid cycle and oxidative phosphorylation.

Inheritance and Dynamics

Mitochondria have their own DNA, known as mtDNA, which is separate from the DNA found in the cell's nucleus.
Mitochondrial DNA is inherited solely through the maternal line, as only egg cells contribute mitochondria to the fertilized egg.
Mitochondria can divide and fuse with each other, allowing them to share their contents and maintain a healthy population within the cell.

Importance and Dysfunctions

Mitochondrial dysfunction has been implicated in a wide range of diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders, metabolic disorders, and cancer.
Mitochondrial diseases can result from mutations in either mtDNA or nuclear DNA.
Mitochondrial function declines with age, which may contribute to the aging process.

Description

Learn about the structure and function of mitochondria, including their role in cellular respiration, energy production, and inheritance. Understand the importance of mitochondrial function and how dysfunction can lead to various diseases.