Mitochondria: Physiology & PathologyAn Insight into the Less Known Entity

Abstract

Mitochondria are the small cellular organelle, considered to be the powerhouse or batteries of the cell. Unlike other organelles, they are unique due to the special characteristics they possess. They contain their own genetic material and are exclusively maternally inherited. Earlier it was considered as just an energy producing organelle, but the research studies have explored the other roles of mitochondria in normal physiology and pathology as well. It can produce its own proteins through the genetic material possessed in it. On contrary the dysfunctioning of the organelle and the accumulating genetic mutations in its DNA can cause numerous disorders. Its unique characteristics make it well suited for forensic analysis. This article gives an overview of the normal physiology of the mitochondria and associated mitochondrial disorders.

Keywords

• mitochondria
• energy
• mtdna
• heteroplasmy
• mitochondrial disease