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What are Mitochondria, and how does it help babies share DNA with 3 people?


This week we're diving into Mitochondrial donation treatment with our latest short on aurorasoul.com's Youtube channel. First, let's take a step to explore some of the fundamentals of Mitochondria:


Mitochondria are known as the powerhouses of the cell. They are organelles found in almost every eukaryotic cell, including human cells. Their primary function is to generate energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which fuels cellular processes such as muscle contraction, nerve impulses, and protein synthesis.



Mitochondria are unique organelles because they contain their own DNA and can replicate independently of the cell. They also have two membranes: an outer membrane and an inner membrane with folds called cristae. These folds increase the surface area of the inner membrane, providing more space for chemical reactions to occur.


The process of generating ATP is called cellular respiration, which occurs in the mitochondria's inner membrane. It involves the breakdown of glucose or fatty acids through a series of biochemical reactions, ultimately leading to the production of ATP.


There are two main types of cellular respiration: aerobic and anaerobic. Aerobic respiration requires oxygen and is the most efficient way to generate ATP. Anaerobic respiration does not require oxygen and is less efficient.

Mitochondrial dysfunction has been linked to several diseases, including Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and cancer. Recent scientific advancements in the field of mitochondrial research have led to the development of new therapies to treat these diseases.



For example, researchers have been working on gene therapies to replace defective mitochondrial DNA and improve mitochondrial function. Another area of research is developing drugs that target specific mitochondrial proteins to improve energy production.


In conclusion, mitochondria are essential organelles that play a critical role in generating energy for cellular processes. Their unique structure and function make them a fascinating topic of study, and ongoing research into mitochondrial function and dysfunction holds promise for developing new therapies for various diseases.


 

Now that we've covered that, perhaps you will have a deeper understanding of how interesting and bizarre the science of using .... to help limit genetic diseases. For that story (babies, 3 DNA donors) watch our Shorts or Read our source:

https://apnews.com/article/britain-genetic-babies-mitochondria-three-parent-6d826809d66a4474bc9dc455c475ad58
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