mitochondrion

Thân thiện

A student examines a mitochondrion in a biology textbook diagram.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A membrane-bound organelle found in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells, containing enzymes responsible for producing energy (ATP) through cellular respiration: A mitochondrion is often described as the "powerhouse" of the cell.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The mitochondrion is essential for converting nutrients into energy.
  • Scientists studied the structure of the mitochondrion to understand cellular metabolism.
  • Each muscle cell contains hundreds of mitochondria to meet its high energy demands.

Advanced Usage

• "Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)": The small amount of genetic material contained within a mitochondrion, which is inherited maternally.

  • Mitochondrial DNA is used in genealogical research to trace maternal lineage.

• "Mitochondrial dysfunction": A state where mitochondria fail to produce sufficient energy, often linked to various diseases.

  • Researchers are investigating the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in neurodegenerative disorders.

Variants and Related Words

• Mitochondria (n, plural): The plural form of mitochondrion.

  • The number of mitochondria in a cell can vary.

• Mitochondrial (adj): Relating to or characteristic of a mitochondrion.

  • The mitochondrial membrane has a unique double-layered structure.

Synonyms

• Powerhouse of the cell: A common descriptive synonym.
• Energy-producing organelle: A functional synonym describing its primary role.

Related Phrases

• "Mitochondrial Eve": A term in genetics referring to the most recent common matrilineal ancestor of all living humans.

  • The concept of Mitochondrial Eve is based on tracing mutations in mitochondrial DNA.

• "Mitochondrial biogenesis": The process by which new mitochondria are formed in the cell.

  • Exercise can stimulate mitochondrial biogenesis in muscle tissue.

Học thuật

Noun

1. an organelle containing enzymes responsible for producing energy

Từ đồng nghĩa

• chondriosome