SC-008 Science Collection

Mitochondria

Structures that convert energy from nutrients into ATP, a usable energy source for the cell.

Established Biology Series 1: The Anatomy of a Cell · Part 6 of 9

What it is

Mitochondria are organelles with an outer membrane and a folded inner membrane. In most human cells, they make much of the ATP that powers cellular work.

Why it matters

Mitochondrial ATP helps power demanding activities such as muscle contraction and nerve cell function, as well as the everyday work of maintaining cells.

Key points

  • They carry their own small, separate genome.
  • Their inner membrane is folded into cristae, increasing surface area.
  • The electron transport chain sits in that inner membrane.
  • Their number per cell varies widely by tissue and demand.

References

  1. National Human Genome Research Institute. Mitochondria. Talking Glossary of Genomic and Genetic Terms. Accessed 20 October 2026. genome.gov
  2. Spinelli JB, Haigis MC. The multifaceted contributions of mitochondria to cellular metabolism. Nat Cell Biol. 2018;20:745–754. doi:10.1038/s41556-018-0124-1

Related records

Library records describe established biology and published research. They do not describe an effect of any Natal Health product. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

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