The Base of Mitochondrial Diseases

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In a single cell there are large numbers of organelles known as mitochondria. These organelles are spherical with a double-membrane, the outer mitochondrial membrane and the inner mitochondrial membrane (Chial). The majority of energy and power for the body’s cells, more than 90% of what is required to preserve life and encourage growth, originates from these organelles in the form of the molecule adenosine triphosphate (Kurt 11; “What”). This energy production process is termed oxidative phosphorylation because it occurs in the presence of oxygen (Sirrs). If there is a fault in this assembling of energy within the mitochondria, it is known as a mitochondrial disease. Usually the organs affected by these diseases are those that require larger amounts of energy, such as the heart, brain, muscle, and liver (Kurt 11). When this process of mitochondrial disease occurs throughout the body, it can effect entire body systems and lead to possible death (“What”). However, adenosine triphosphate production is only one function of the mitochondria. Most of the roles of mitochondria depend upon the location of the cell in which they occupy and the cell’s functions. As a human develops from fetus to adult the functions of these mitochondria change and develop as well. Most of these jobs of the mitochondria are majorly engaged in anabolism “molecular building blocks” and catabolism of fats, proteins, carbohydrates, and etcetera. For example, cells cannot even form RNA and DNA without the help of mitochondria because they require purines and pyrimidines formed within the organelle. Also, mitochondria withhold the “rate-limiting enzymes” needed for pyrimidine biosynthesis and heme synthesis necessary in hemoglobin production. Some other disting...

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FCCMG, and Andre Mattman, MD, FRCPC. "Primer on Mitochondrial Disease: Biochemistry, Genetics, and Epidemiology." British Columbia Medical Journal 53.4 (2011): 172-76. BC Medical Journal. Web. 18 Apr. 2014. .
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