Mitochondrion
The mitochondrion is a structure found in most eukaryotic cells (the cells that make up plants, animals, and many other forms of life). These organelles are sometimes described as "cellular power plants" because they produce most of the cell's supply of something called adenosine triphosphate, used as a source of chemical energy. In addition to supplying cellular energy, mitochondria are involved in other tasks such as signaling, cellular differentiation, cell death, as well as the control of the cell cycle and cell growth. Mitochondria have been involved in several human diseases, including mitochondrial disorders and cardiac dysfunction, and may play a role in the aging process.
Several characteristics make mitochondria unique. The number of mitochondria in a cell varies widely by organism and tissue type. Many cells have only one mitochondrion, whereas others can contain thousands of mitochondria. A mitochondrion contains outer and inner membranes, made of proteins.
Several characteristics make mitochondria unique. The number of mitochondria in a cell varies widely by organism and tissue type. Many cells have only one mitochondrion, whereas others can contain thousands of mitochondria. A mitochondrion contains outer and inner membranes, made of proteins.