Mitokondriisse

Mitokondriisse, often referred to as the powerhouse of the cell, are essential organelles found in eukaryotic cells. Their primary function is to generate most of the cell's supply of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), used as a source of chemical energy. This process is known as cellular respiration. Mitokondriisse have a unique structure, enclosed by two membranes. The outer membrane is smooth, while the inner membrane is extensively folded into structures called cristae. These folds increase the surface area, providing more space for the enzymes involved in ATP synthesis.

Inside the inner membrane is the mitochondrial matrix, a gel-like substance containing enzymes, ribosomes, and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). The mtDNA is circular and inherited maternally, distinct from the nuclear DNA in the cell's nucleus. This independent genetic system reflects the endosymbiotic theory, which proposes that mitokondriisse originated from free-living bacteria that were engulfed by an ancestral eukaryotic cell.

Beyond energy production, mitokondriisse play roles in other cellular processes, including cell signaling, differentiation, and programmed cell death (apoptosis). Dysfunction of mitokondriisse is implicated in a wide range of diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders, metabolic diseases, and cancer. Their dynamic nature and crucial contributions make them indispensable components of cellular life.