Question

As you have learned in many science/biology courses, the Mitochondria is known as the
Powerhouse” of the cell. It produces energy for our bodies.Some metabolic disorders cause the
ionophore channels across the mitochondrial membrane to leak. What impact would this have on
the normal functioning of the body? (Inquiry 3 marks)

Answer 1

Mitochondria are considered as the powerhouse of the cell as it is involved in the production of maximum amount of ATP during aerobic respiration. The inner mitochondrial membrane is the site of the electron transport chain that is concerned with oxidative phosphorylation.

NADH and FADH2 serve as the donors of electrons to the electron transport chain. Molecular oxygen is the terminal electron acceptor. The flow of electrons through the carriers generates a proton gradient across the membrane. This proton gradient is utilized by the ATP synthase compelx to couple ATP synthesis from ADP + Pi

Molecules that create pores in the innermitochondrial membrane diffuse the proton gradient. As a result ATP is not produced by the ATP synthase complex. Such molecules are referred to as uncouplers.

Effects:
1. Diffusion of proton gradient
2. Less production of ATP
3. Heat generation