Why is Mitochondria Called Power House of a Cell?
Why is mitochondria called power powerhouse of a cell? Explain its structure, too
Mitochondria: Powerhouse of a cell
Mitochondria – Powerhouse of the cell:
Mitochondria is a double membrane-bound semiautonomous organelle present in the cytoplasm of the cell that possesses its genetic material and ribosomes. The proteins synthesized by the proteins in mitochondria are utilized to generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP) from the food. This ATP acts as the energy currency of the cell, and because of this, the whole cell and body get energy. Thus, mitochondria are called the powerhouse of the cells.
Structure of Mitochondria
The mitochondrion is a double-membraned, rod-shaped structure found in both plant and animal cells. Its size ranges from 0.5 to 1.0 micrometre in diameter. The structure comprises an outer membrane, an inner membrane, and a gel-like material called the matrix. The outer membrane and the inner membrane are made of proteins and phospholipid layers separated by the intermembrane space. The outer membrane covers the surface of the mitochondrion and has a large number of special proteins known as porins.
Cristae:
The inner membrane of mitochondria is rather complex in structure. It has many folds that form a layered structure called cristae, and this helps in increasing the surface area inside the organelle. The cristae and the proteins of the inner membrane aid in the production of ATP molecules. The inner mitochondrial membrane is strictly permeable only to oxygen and ATP molecules. Several chemical reactions take place within the inner membrane of mitochondria.
Mitochondrial Matrix
The mitochondrial matrix is a viscous fluid that contains a mixture of enzymes and proteins. It also comprises ribosomes, inorganic ions, mitochondrial DNA, nucleotide cofactors, and organic molecules. The enzymes present in the matrix play an important role in the synthesis of ATP molecules.
– Written By Hayi Gosain
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