[Mitochondria and their role in cell metabolism].

Abstract

Mitochondria are subcellular organelles of the endosymbiotic origin. They are bounded by double membrane and contain their own DNA. Recent advance in 3D microscopy have contributed a better understanding of mitochondrial structure. Mitochondria are highly dynamic organelles with a very complex structure of the inner membrane. In cells, mitochondria create an interconnected reticulum. Beyond a fundamental role in energy production, they also play key roles in thermogenesis, maintenance of cellular redox potential, Ca2+ homeostasis, ROS production, cell signaling and cell death. Disturbances in mitochondrial metabolism are known to play a role not only in rare genetics disorders, but have also been implicated in many common diseases of aging. Conventional studies of mitochondrial metabolism are based on the isolation of intact organelles. Because of mitochondrial complex roles rises a need to assay mitochondrial functions in situ. The activity of respiration and oxidative phosphorylation in intact and permeabilized cells can be measured by using high resolution respirometry. We can estimate various mitochondrial functions in living cells by using fluorescent cation dyes.