Membrane-bound organelles that carry out important metabolic processes, including the production of much of the cell’s usable energy in the form of ATP.
Mitochondria are often described as the cell’s “powerhouses,” although their functions extend well beyond energy production. They are involved in processes such as cellular metabolism, calcium regulation, and programmed cell death.
Mitochondria contain a small amount of their own DNA, known as mitochondrial DNA, which is separate from the much larger amount of DNA contained in the cell nucleus.
QUICK FACT
Mitochondria have their own DNA. This is one of several features that distinguish them from most other organelles.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
Nucleus: The nucleus contains most of a human cell’s DNA, whereas mitochondria contain a much smaller amount of DNA and perform specialized metabolic functions.
SEE ALSO
- Organelle
- DNA
- Nucleus
- Genetic Material
- ATP