Mitochondria are organelles separated from the cytoplasm by a double bilipid membrane where certain metabolic processes occur.
The tricarboxylic cycle (Krebs cycle), the electron transport chain, and beta oxidation of fatty acids take place in the mitochondria. The result of these metabolics pathways is the production of energy through the production of ATP. Oxidative metabolism requires oxygen and produces reactive oxygen species. Therefore, mitochondria are the center of aerobic respiration.
Mitochondria contains proteins that can initiate apoptosis when they are released into the cytoplasm.
This is a very short summary of the main activities of this complex organ.
Mitochondria are the key element of apoptosis induction according to John Reed. When the membrane potential drops on challenge by various stimuli, the pores on the membrane are permeabilized, and the pro-apoptotic molecules like cytochrome c are released to cytoplasm, forming a complex called apoptosome which activates the cascade of caspases. It is also the site where respiration at cellular level takes place, during the process numerous reactions of redox go on.
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