Functions of Mitochondria in Animal Cells that Need to Be Known, What Are They?

YOGYAKARTA - What is the function of mitochondria in animal cells? Mitochondria are part of eukaryotic cells that can be found in all living things. Starting from humans, animals, and plants. This organelle has an important role in various processes of organisms, one of which is respiration.

Quoted from the book Respirology by Dr. R. Darmanto Djojodibroto, respiration is the process of gas exchange between organisms and the environment to produce energy.

With a simple explanation, the term respiration can be equated with breathing, because in the process the cells of the organism in the body will take in oxygen and eliminate carbon dioxide.

The function of respiration in animals is processed by mitochondria. However, this cell organelle not only serves to help respiration. Mitochondria also have several other functions that are no less important for the survival of animals.

To understand more about the meaning, structure, and function of mitochondria in animal cells, read the full review below.

What is Mitochondria?

In the book SMA/MA Biology Class XI (Diknas) compiled by Gunawan Susilowarno, mitochondria is composed of two Greek words, namely mitos which means "thread" and chondros which means "grain".

Mitochondria are cell organelles with an elliptical shape that have two membranes. The size of mitochondria varies, depending on the type of cell. The average size of this organelle is around 0.3 µm to 40 µm.

The mitochondria contain a fluid or matrix consisting of fat, proteins, circular DNA, and ribosomes. Mitochondria are also found in all eukaryotic cells and are evenly distributed in the cytoplasm, nucleus, or cell edge.

The number of mitochondria in animal cells is generally more than in plant cells, because the role of mitochondria as a plant energy producer has been replaced by chloroplasts.

What is the Structure of Mitochondria?

In the book Biology, Oman Karmana explains, mitochondria are composed of two membrane systems, namely the outer membrane and the inner membrane. Both membranes have strong, flexible, and stable properties.

Outer membrane: the membrane that encloses the mitochondria and is located on the outside and can be water and ion permeable. This membrane contains many proteins and enzymes. Inner membrane: the inside of the mitochondria consisting of folded sheets (cristae) and empty spaces between the folds of the inner membrane (matrix). In the matrix is stored small DNA (mitochondrial DNA). Functions of Mitochondria in Animal Cells

The function of mitochondria works holistically in the organelle. However, most of its activity is processed in the inner space through enzymes that are on the matrix (the inner membrane of the mitochondria). Below are some of the functions of mitochondria in animal cells.

Produce energy

The main function of the mitochondria in animal cells is as an energy producer. Every food intake that enters the animal's body will be divided into simpler molecules, then processed into ATP molecules (energy) needed by the body. This process is called phosphorylation.

Maintaining the concentration of calcium ions

Mitochondria have a function to maintain the balance of calcium ion concentration in animals to be adequately met in various parts of certain cells. Mitochondria also have a function as a calcium ion storage tank that can be utilized at any time.

Perform ammonia detoxification

This detoxification function can function effectively if the location of the mitochondria is in the liver cell. In this case, the content of enzymes in the mitochondria helps detoxify ammonia which is risky for the body.

Build a specific part of the body

Mitochondria help in the production of certain parts in the animal's blood and hormones. Mitochondria generally help form the hormones testosterone and estrogen which can improve the body's performance.

Assists in the process of cell death

The next function of the mitochondria is to help the process of death of cells that have been damaged or overdeveloped in the body so as not to interfere with the body's work system. This process is called apoptosis. Mitochondria are very useful for maintaining the balance of organ function and preventing the development of organisms that can interfere with the body.

That's the review of the function of mitochondria in animal cells. Hopefully useful! Visit VOI.id for other interesting information.

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