What is the structure and function of the mitochondrion?

A mitochondrion is a round to oval-shaped organelle found in the cells of almost all eukaryotic organisms. It produces energy, known as ATP, for the cell through a series of chemical reactions.

How are structure and function related in mitochondria?

The structure of the mitochondrion is adapted to the function it performs: Outer membrane – the outer membrane contains transport proteins that enable the shuttling of pyruvate from the cytosol. Inner membrane – contains the electron transport chain and ATP synthase (used for oxidative phosphorylation)

What are the structural parts of the mitochondria?

The structure of mitochondria

  • Outer membrane: Small molecules can pass freely through the outer membrane.
  • Intermembrane space: This is the area between the inner and outer membranes.
  • Inner membrane: This membrane holds proteins that have several roles.
  • Cristae: These are the folds of the inner membrane.

What are 4 structures of the mitochondria?

Mitochondria have a double membrane arrangement which separates the organelle into four distinct compartments – the outer membrane, the intermembrane space, the inner membrane, and the matrix. Each compartment serves different functions.

Why is the structure of mitochondria important for cellular respiration?

Mitochondria are organelles whose membranes are specialized for aerobic respiration. The matrix of the mitochondria is the site of Krebs Cycle reactions. The electron transport chain and most ATP synthesis rely on the compartments created by the inner membrane of the mitochondria.

What are two functions of mitochondria?

Function. The most prominent roles of mitochondria are to produce the energy currency of the cell, ATP (i.e., phosphorylation of ADP), through respiration and to regulate cellular metabolism.

What is the internal structure of mitochondria?

The outer membrane covers the organelle and contains it like a skin. The inner membrane folds over many times and creates layered structures called cristae. The fluid contained in the mitochondria is called the matrix. The folding of the inner membrane increases the surface area inside the organelle.

What are the five functions of mitochondria?

5 Roles Mitochondria Play in Cells

  • Production of ATP. Perhaps the most well-known role of mitochondria is the production of ATP, the energy currency of cells.
  • Calcium Homeostasis.
  • Regulation of Innate Immunity.
  • Programmed Cell Death.
  • Stem Cell Regulation.

What is the function of mitochondria in a cell?

The main function of mitochondria is to metabolize or break down carbohydrates and fatty acids in order to generate energy. Eukaryotic cells use energy in the form of a chemical molecule called ATP (adenosine triphosphate).

What are facts about mitochondria?

Mitochondria are known as powerhouses of a cells. They produce the energy that a cell requires to carry out the functions of a cell. So, if a tissue is designed to do extensive work (such as the muscle tissues in humans), the cells in the tissue will have more Mitochondria.

What does mitochondria job?

Mitochondria are a part of eukaryotic cells. The main job of mitochondria is to perform cellular respiration. This means it takes in nutrients from the cell, breaks it down, and turns it into energy.

What does the mitochondria make?

Mitochondria are the energy factories of the cells. The energy currency for the work that animals must do is the energy-rich molecule adenosine triphosphate (ATP). The ATP is produced in the mitochondria using energy stored in food.