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PinkMonkey Online Study Guide-Biology
Structure of cristae
membrane: The inner surface of
the cristae membrane (i.e. the surface towards the matrix) is covered
with numerous (infinite) stalked particles. These are called F1
particles, elementary particles or sub units.
These particles project into the matrix. Each F1 particle
has three parts, viz., the head piece, the stalk and
the base piece. The respiratory chain is situated in the
cristae membrane where the F1
particles are present. The chain consists of
enzymes and co-enzymes which form the electron transport system
(ETS) in the mitochondrion. These enzymes and co-enzymes of the
ETS act as the electron acceptors in the aerobic respiration reactions
oxidative phosphorylation).
Functions of mitochondria
(1) These are the sites of the phase-II reactions of aerobic respiration.
(2) Kreb’s cycle reaction takes place in the matrix.
(3) Terminal oxidation (utilization of O2
and formation of water) and oxidative phosphorylation (formation of ATP)
take place in cristae membrane.
(4)ATP molecules formed in aerobic respiration are stored
in mitochondria and are supplied for cellular activities. Hence, mitochondria
are the energy supplying power houses of cells.
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