The Mitochondrion

The structure
• Mitochondria, a membrane bound
organelle, can be found as a spherical,
branched or rod-shaped.
• They are surrounded by two membranes
with a fluid filled space between them. The
inner membrane is folded to create a
cristae. This inner region of the
mitochondrion is the mitochondrial matrix.
The function
• Mitochondria are the site of ATP production during aerobic
respiration.
• The mitochondrial matrix contains enzymes for cell
respiration.
• They are self- replicating structures which helps increase the
cells overall energy if needed.
• The total number of mitochondria in a cell varies with their
energy requirement.
Plant or animal cell

• Mitochondria are present in both animal

and plant cells as they play a critical role
in converting the sugar present in the
cell to energy (Eukaryotic cells)
Size
• 2-5 micrometers long
• However, their size and shape can vary with their functions. Based on the energy requirement
by the cells.
• They can also quickly change their shape to move around the cell when needed
Light microscope

• Mitochondria are visible under

the light microscope although
little detail can be seen. They
allow us to visualise the cells
larger components such as the
nuclei.

• The micrograph will be clearer if

a TEM was used
Double membrane
• Yes, the inner and outer membrane
• The main function of the double membrane is to increase the surface area within the
mitochondria, allowing more ATP to be produced across the structure
More facts

• Mitochondria play a critical role

in programmed cell death
(apoptosis) – they release signals
that trigger the cell to self-
destruct
• Mitochondria are able to
manufacture their proteins using
there own ribosomes found with
the structure