Why Is Mitochondria Important?

Mitochondria How is it that when you hear about cells, they seem so complex? It is simply because they are very complex, even if they are small. Such a complex thing, however, needs a lot of energy to function. A lot of that energy comes from the mitochondria in each cell. Mitochondria are one of many parts in a cell that help the cell to function. These so-called parts of a cell are called organelles. The mitochondria were first discovered by Richard Altman, but was originally named “bioblasts”. Carl Benda later renamed them to later be called “mitochondria”. Altman postulated that these organelles are the basic unit of cells, meaning they are one of the most important organelles to a cell. Though Altman was and still is the one who is …show more content…
In comparison to the smooth outer membrane, the function of the inner membrane is similar. The function of the smooth inner membrane is also to do some filtering and protecting of the mitochondria. The inner membrane keeps any ions or molecules from passing through the mitochondria that do not have special membrane transporters. One notable thing about both the inner and outer membrane of mitochondria is that it shows how strong and important mitochondria are. To have membranes that keep so much out of the mitochondria, shows how protected the mitochondria needs to be. Mitochondria also consist of cristae, but that is often grouped with the inner membrane. The cristae are simply the folds formed by the inner membrane. Cristae are meant to create more space in the mitochondria, allowing processes to go much faster, and allowing things to run smoother. On that note, the space between the inner and outer membrane, being the effect of the cristae, is called the intermembrane …show more content…
The matrix is the space inside the inner membrane, taking the form of a fluid, and where most of the action occurs. This takes up about 2/3 of the space of the entire mitochondria. The matrix contains enzymes that are responsible for many of the critical cycles that happen in mitochondria. Because of the folds in the inner membrane (cristae), a lot of those processes can proceed quickly as well. The components of the matrix are always close to some portion of the inner membrane, with the folds being there, leading to quick transportation and access to the membrane. The matrix, as mentioned, is where most of the action in the mitochondria occurs. This means that the matrix is the most complex part of mitochondria. Also as mentioned, there are enzymes in the matrix, helping process go quicker. This explains and supports how mitochondria are so efficient in cells, and do so much for the benefit of the