Energy dependence of protein synthesis by isolated cestode mitochondria

Mitochondria of helminth parasites produce energy in a number of ways that vary from species to species, and, in general, do not possess a classical tricarboxylic acid (Krebs) cycle. The process of protein synthesis, which is energy dependent, is not well understood in this organelle. However, protein synthesis in helminth mitochondria seems to serve the purpose to the desired level despite its limited capacity to produce ATP compared to its mammalian counterpart. Data presented here demonstrate that helminth mitochondria can synthesize proteins in vitro and the process can be supported by energy supplied exogenously by the cytosol, by an ATP generating system utilizing a substrate such as malate, or by ATP itself.