© 2003 Blackwell Science Ltd nalling and apoptosis (programmed cell death), and they have a crucial role in metabolism. Many metabolic enzyme systems are contained within mitochondria, including components of tricarboxylic acid (Krebs) cycle enzymes, and the fatty acid β-oxidation pathway. However, the term ‘mitochondrial disorder’ usually refers to a primary abnormality of the mitochondrial re...

The specific activity and content of cytochrome oxidase in the rough endoplasmic reticulum--mitochondrion complex are higher than in the mitochondrial fraction. Radiolabelling studies with the use of hepatocytes and isolated microsomal and rough endoplasmic reticulum--mitochondrion fractions, followed by immunoprecipitation with anti-(cytochrome oxidase) antibody, reveal that the nuclear-coded ...

When someone is inactive the energy and oxygen accumulate to dangerous levels instead of being burned off. This creates an excess of free radicals. If one is consuming too many calories this adds more energy to the mitochondrion and contributes to the free radicals. Anti-oxidants generated within the mitochondrion can neutralise the free radicals and help prevent damage. Physical activity helps...

We are witnessing a period of renewed interest in the biology of the mitochondrion. The mitochondrion serves a critical function in the maintenance of cellular energy stores, thermogenesis, and apoptosis. Moreover, alterations in mitochondrial function contribute to several inherited and acquired human diseases and the aging process. This review summarizes our understanding of the transcription...