Cellular Anatomy & Physiology Flashcards
What is mitochondria
The powerhouse of the cell
What is the function of mitochondria
Produces adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and is essential for physiological processes
Importance of mitochondria
Enables efficient energy production via oxidative phosphorylation & reduces reliance on less efficient anaerobic glycolysis
What is the structure of mitochondria
Oval-shaped, membrane-bound organelle in eukaryotic cells
What is the outer membrane structure & function
Smooth, permeable phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins; Allows passage of small molecules (ATP, ADP, metabolic intermediates), first layer of protection for cell, regulates shape, size, and distribution
What is the inner membrane structure & function
Folded into cristae to increase surface area, contains cardiolipin, making it highly selective; It’s the primary site of oxidative phosphorylation and ATP synthesis and controls ions and metabolite movement with selective transport proteins
What is intermembrane space structure & function
It’s located between outer and inner memebranes; It’s made of enzymes for the Krebs Cycle and mitochondrial DNA, ribosomes, and functional proteins; Maintains proton gradient for ATP production = proton gradients drives ATP synthesis via ATP synthase; It also regulates apoptosis, protein transport, and ion/metabolite exchange
What is the structure and function of Mitochondrial Matrix
It’s located in the innermost compartment, enclosed by the inner membrane; It’s made of a gel-like substance and contains enzymes, mitochondrial DNA, ribosomes, tRNA, and molecules needed for protein synthesis; It houses enzymes responsible for the Krebs cycle to generate NADH and FADH2
What critical roles do Mitochondrial membranes play
Cellular energy production, apoptosis, and metabolic regulation; Dysfunction can disrupt energy balance and cell survival mechanisms