What are the two major portions of mitochondria called?
Mitochondria are double-membrane organelles found in eukaryotic cells that are
responsible for generating most of the cell's energy. These organelles are
considered as the powerhouse of the cell since they produce adenosine triphosphate
(ATP), the molecule that carries energy for all cellular activities. The unique structure
of mitochondria allows them to perform several essential functions, including
oxidative phosphorylation, fatty-acid oxidation, and the synthesis of several important
biomolecules.
Mitochondria vary in size and shape based on the specific needs of the cell.
Generally, they are around 1-10 micrometers in length and have a spherical or rodlike shape. Moreover, the size and shape of mitochondria can fluctuate in response
to the metabolic needs of the cell.
The two major portions of mitochondria include the outer membrane and the inner
membrane. The outer membrane is a lipid bilayer that separates the mitochondria
from the cytoplasm. In contrast, the inner membrane is highly folded into cristae,
which provide an enormous surface area for various reactions occurring in the
organelle. The spaces between the cristae are filled with the matrix, which contains
several enzymes involved in the synthesis of ATP.
In conclusion, mitochondria are essential organelles that play a vital role in cellular
energy production. Their unique structure and the presence of specific biomolecules
allow them to carry out various metabolic processes that are essential for the proper
functioning of the cell.
References:
1. Alberts, B. et al. (2002). Molecular Biology of the Cell. New York: Garland Science.
2. Lodish, H. et al. (2016). Molecular Cell Biology. New York: W. H. Freeman and Company.