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Mitochondria

Mitochondria

Mitochondria are eukaryotic cellular organelles that are known to produce energy through a process called oxidative phosphorylation. Besides their primary function, mitochondria are involved in various cellular processes, including cell growth, differentiation, signaling, metabolism, and senescence. Age-related changes cause a decline in mitochondrial quality and integrity due to increased mitochondrial mutations and oxidative damage. Thus, aging can severely impact mitochondrial functions,...

Mitochondrial Membranes

Mitochondrial Membranes

A single mitochondrion is a bean-shaped organelle enclosed by a double-membrane system. The outer membrane of mitochondria is smooth and contains many porins - the integral membrane transporters. Porins enable free diffusion of ions and small uncharged molecules through the outer mitochondrial membrane but limit the transport of molecules larger than 5000 Daltons. Further, the outer mitochondrial membrane forms a unique structure called membrane contact sites with other subcellular organelles,...

Mitochondrial Membranes

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A single mitochondrion is a bean-shaped organelle enclosed by a double-membrane system. The outer membrane of mitochondria is smooth and contains many porins - the integral membrane transporters. Porins enable free diffusion of ions and small uncharged molecules through the outer mitochondrial membrane but limit the transport of molecules larger than 5000 Daltons. Further, the outer mitochondrial membrane forms a unique structure called membrane contact sites with other subcellular organelles,...

The Inner Mitochondrial Membrane

The Inner Mitochondrial Membrane

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Electron Transport Chain: Complex I and II

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The mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) is the main energy generation system in the eukaryotic cells. However, mitochondria also produce cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) due to the large electron flow during oxidative phosphorylation. While Complex I is one of the primary sources of superoxide radicals, ROS production by Complex II is uncommon and may only be observed in cancer cells with mutated complexes.
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Disorders of the Nervous Tissue

Disorders of the Nervous Tissue

Nervous tissue is a vital component of the human body's communication system, enabling us to perceive and respond to stimuli. However, like all other tissues, it is vulnerable to disorders and diseases that can significantly impact our neurological functioning.
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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 24, 2026

Three-dimensional Imaging and Analysis of Mitochondria within Human Intraepidermal Nerve Fibers

Three-dimensional Imaging and Analysis of Mitochondria within Human Intraepidermal Nerve Fibers

Published on: September 29, 2017

Mitochondrial calcium function and dysfunction in the central nervous system.

David G Nicholls¹

¹Buck Institute for Age Research, 8001 Redwood Boulevard, Novato, CA 94945, USA. dnicholls@buckinstitute.org

Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta

|March 21, 2009

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Brain mitochondria regulate calcium (Ca2+) levels in neurons, preventing overload that can cause cell death. Mitochondrial calcium handling is crucial for neuronal survival in conditions like stroke and Huntington's Disease.

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Last Updated: Jun 24, 2026

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Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Cell Biology
Mitochondrial Function

Background:

Isolated brain mitochondria calcium (Ca2+) handling is well-understood.
In situ predictions suggested mitochondria would buffer neuronal Ca2+ fluctuations.

Purpose of the Study:

To review evidence on mitochondrial Ca2+ transport's role in neuronal survival.
To discuss mitochondrial Ca2+ handling in neurodegenerative diseases and acute conditions.

Main Methods:

Extrapolation of in vitro mitochondrial data to intact neurons.
Review of experimental evidence confirming predicted mitochondrial Ca2+ behaviors in vivo.
Investigation of mitochondrial Ca2+ transport in disease models.

Main Results:

Mitochondria in intact neurons reversibly accumulate Ca2+ above a set-point.
Excessive Ca2+ uptake triggers the permeability transition, leading to neuronal damage.
Mitochondrial Ca2+ overload is implicated in glutamate excitotoxicity, stroke, and Huntington's Disease.

Conclusions:

Mitochondrial Ca2+ transport is a critical factor in neuronal survival.
Dysfunctional mitochondrial Ca2+ handling contributes to neurodegeneration and acute neuronal injury.
Targeting mitochondrial Ca2+ regulation may offer therapeutic strategies for neurological disorders.