Introduction

Mitochondria specialize at producing energy-rich ATP for use throughout the cell.  Let’s explore the structure and function of these important organelles now.

Mitochondria

Mitochondria are pod-shaped structures surrounded by a double membrane. The inner mitochondrial membrane has distinct folds, called cristae, while the space between the two membranes is referred to as the intermembrane space.  The space found within the inner membrane is called the matrix.

Mitochondria specialize at producing energy-rich ATP for use throughout the cell.  Production of ATP is facilitated through a series of chemical reactions which break down glucose in the presence of oxygen.  Mitochondria are often referred to as the ‘powerhouse’ of the cell.

In the manufacturing analogy, the mitochondria would represent the power plant, driving and powering the activities of the entire plant.

The video below discusses the structure and the function of the mitochondria in the eukaryotic cell: