Demonstrate the structure of mitochondria

The structure of mitochondria has been examined in great detail with the aid of the electron microscope, and it is now possible to describe the details of the organisation of a mitochondrion. Fig.l.8 gives a diagrammatic representation of the structure of the mitochondrion and its membranes. Mitochondria have a characteristic double membrane system with an outer membrane enveloping an inner membrane. The two membranes are separated by an inter membrane space.

The inner membrane forms extensive invaginations projecting into the mitochondria1 matrix space. These invaginations, called cristae, help to increase the total surface area of the inner membrane. The inner surface of the inner membrane (cristae) has a number of small stalked door knob like structures called the coupling factors. The coupling factors are responsible for the synthesis of ATP.