Mitochondria

__Mitochondria__ Definition **  Mitochondrion: //mi⋅to⋅chon⋅dri⋅on// ** an organelle in the cytoplasm of cells that functions in energy production

Mitochondria (singular, mitochondrion) are bean shaped organelles that are found in the cytoplasm of every eukaryotic cell. They occur in varying numbers, depending on the cell and its function.

  Mitochondria are the cells' power sources. They are distinct organelles with two membranes. Usually they are rod-shaped, however they can be round. The outer membrane limits the organelle. The inner membrane is thrown into folds or shelves that project inward. These are called "cristae mitochondriales". This electron micrograph shows the organization of the two membranes.



The picture above shows the basic structure of the the mitochondria.



     -They are double membrane structures: having an inner membrane and an outer membrane.      -There is a space between the inner and outer membranes called the intermembrane space.   -There is the space called the matrix that is bounded by the inner membrane      -The inner membrane is also very convoluted. The convolutions are called cristae.            -The protein and  phospholipid composition of the inner and outer mitochondrial membranes are very different.  Different from most organelles, mitochindria have their own ribosomes and DNA. This information suggests that mitochondria were originally free-living prokaryotes that were taken in by larger cells. This relationship had to have helped both organisms to survive.

Mitochondria Video: [|Link] Citations for pictures: Pictures are linked to the website

Citations: *www.google.com