Sisämitokondrioidens

Sisämitokondrioidens is a term that refers to the inner membrane of mitochondria. Mitochondria are often called the "powerhouses of the cell" because they are responsible for generating most of the cell's supply of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), used as a source of chemical energy. The inner mitochondrial membrane is a highly folded structure that plays a crucial role in this energy production process.

These folds, known as cristae, significantly increase the surface area of the inner membrane. This increased surface area is vital for housing the large number of protein complexes that make up the electron transport chain and ATP synthase. The electron transport chain is a series of protein complexes embedded within the inner membrane that utilize the energy from electrons to pump protons across the membrane. This pumping action creates an electrochemical gradient, a difference in proton concentration and charge across the inner membrane.

ATP synthase is another large protein complex located in the inner membrane. It harnesses the energy stored in the proton gradient to synthesize ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate. This process is called oxidative phosphorylation. The inner mitochondrial membrane is selectively permeable, meaning it controls which substances can pass through it. This selective permeability is essential for maintaining the proton gradient and for regulating the transport of molecules into and out of the mitochondrial matrix, the innermost compartment of the mitochondrion.