Word of the week: Mitochondria

We all know mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell. But what is it that makes them so?

Most human cells house blobs and sacs called mitochondria, filled with chemicals and enzymes. A set of these enzymes are responsible for mitochondria’s trademark function, oxidative respiration. Where glucose breakdowns from outside the mitochondria are converted into the energy currency cells use – ATP. The ATP produced by mitochondria drive other cellular processes, including metabolism and membrane transport.

Mitochondria are also home to other enzymes involved in cellular functions such as apoptosis, aka programmed cell death.

Interestingly, each mitochondrion contains its own DNA genome (the cookbook) and ribosome (protein printers). Which means part of the proteins and enzymes used by mitochondria are synthesised on site.

Did you know...?

1. Mitochondria divide independently of cellular replication.
2. You get all your mitochondria from your biological mum, via her ovum.
3. Unlike most other organelles in our cells, mitochondria are double membraned and has a highly folded inner membrane.