Mitochondria

Mitochondria is a double membrane-bound cell organelle present in the cytoplasm of all higher organisms. They produce a huge amount of energy in the form of ATP and thus called the ‘powerhouse of the cell’. The word ‘mitochondrion’ comes from the Greek word ‘mitos’, meaning ‘thread’ and ‘chondrion’, meaning ‘granule’ or ‘grain-like’.

Richard Altmann discovered mitochondria in 1890 and called them ‘bioblasts’. Carl Benda coined the term ‘mitochondrion’ in 1898.

They are found in the cytoplasm of nearly all plant and animal cells. Typically, there are about 2000 mitochondria per cell, making up 25% of the cell volume. Mitochondria are more abundantly found in the liver cell (up to 1600), muscle cell, sperm cell, and oocyte (more than 300,000), where energy is in high demand.

How Big are Mitochondria

The size and shape of mitochondria vary from one tissue to another based on the functions they perform and the environment in which they work. Most mitochondria have a diameter of approximately 0.5 to 1.0 µm and a length of about 7 µm.

What do Mitochondria Look Like

It is a ‘bean’ shaped organelle that is constantly in the state of division to form a network. These networks are always changing their shape and size based on the tissue or organ, where they function. Find the best maid service anchorage ak nearby.

What are their Parts

1. Double Membrane: Outer and inner membrane consisting of proteins and phospholipid molecules
2. Intermembrane Space: Space between the two membranes. It has the same composition as that of the cell’s cytoplasm
3. Cristae: Formed by inward foldings of the inner membrane. Proteins known as F0F1-ATPases that produce the majority of ATP used by cells are found distributed throughout the cristae.
4. Matrix: Space enclosed by the inner membrane. It contains a viscous fluid containing a mixture of enzymes and proteins along with ribosomes, inorganic ions, DNA, nucleotide cofactors, and organic molecules
5. DNA: Genetic material of mitochondria

The two main functions of mitochondria are:  1) promoting the growth of new cells and in cell multiplication, and 2) serving as the ‘energy currency’ of the cell by synthesizing high-energy phosphate molecule – ATP

Other Important Functions:

• Producing body heat by the accumulation of brown-fat
• Controlling various cellular activities such as cell differentiation, cell signaling, cell movement, and also in the cell cycle.
• Helping in the accumulation of calcium ions, iron-containing pigments such as ferritin, and phosphates such as osteoblasts of bone, within the cell
• Building certain parts of blood and hormones like testosterone and estrogen