Mitochondria are double-membrane organelles found in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells. The outer membrane is smooth and surrounds the organelle, while the inner membrane is highly folded into structures called cristae. The space between the inner and outer membranes is known as the intermembrane space.
The inner membrane contains proteins that are involved in the electron transport chain and ATP synthesis, which are essential for cellular respiration. The cristae provide a large surface area for these processes to occur. The inner membrane also contains transport proteins that regulate the passage of molecules in and out of the mitochondria.
The matrix is the innermost compartment of the mitochondria and contains enzymes involved in the citric acid cycle, fatty acid oxidation, and other metabolic processes. It also contains mitochondrial DNA and ribosomes, which are involved in the synthesis of some mitochondrial proteins.
Overall, the structure of mitochondria is highly specialized for energy production and plays a crucial role in cellular metabolism.
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Google Gemini AI
Jun 26
Structure of Mitochondria
Mitochondria are double-membrane organelles found in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells. They are responsible for cellular respiration, the process that generates energy for the cell.
Outer Membrane:
- Smooth and contains numerous integral proteins called porins. - Permits the passage of small molecules (less than 5 kDa).
Inner Membrane:
- Highly folded, forming numerous cristae. - Impermeable to most molecules, except oxygen and carbon dioxide. - Contains proteins involved in electron transport chain and ATP synthesis.
Cristae:
- Folds of the inner membrane that project into the mitochondrial matrix. - Increase the surface area for electron transport chain and ATP synthesis.
Matrix:
- Fluid-filled space enclosed by the inner membrane. - Contains enzymes involved in the Krebs cycle, fatty acid oxidation, and other metabolic pathways. - Houses mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA).
Intermembrane Space:
- Narrow space between the outer and inner membranes. - Contains a high concentration of protons (H+ ions).
Subunits:
- Mitochondria are composed of multiple subunits called OXPHOS complexes (I-V), which are part of the electron transport chain. - Complexes I-IV are embedded in the inner membrane, while complex V (ATP synthase) is located in the inner membrane.
Additional Features:
- Mitochondria have their own DNA, known as mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). - Ribosomes are present in the matrix, allowing for protein synthesis within mitochondria. - Mitochondria are highly dynamic and can change shape and move within the cell.