Hydrogenosomes

Definition

Hydrogenosomes are membrane-bound organelles found in certain anaerobic eukaryotic microorganisms that generate ATP. They produce hydrogen as a byproduct of their metabolic processes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hydrogenosomes are similar to mitochondria but are found in anaerobic environments.
2. They generate ATP through substrate-level phosphorylation, not oxidative phosphorylation.
3. Hydrogenosomes produce molecular hydrogen (H2) as a byproduct.
4. These organelles lack their own genome and rely on the nuclear genome for encoding proteins.
5. Hydrogenosomes are primarily found in certain protozoa and fungi, such as Trichomonas vaginalis.

Review Questions

• What type of environment do hydrogenosomes typically function in?
• How do hydrogenosomes differ from mitochondria in terms of energy production?
• What is a unique byproduct of the metabolic processes occurring within hydrogenosomes?

Related terms

Mitochondria: Organelles responsible for ATP production through oxidative phosphorylation in aerobic eukaryotic cells.

Anaerobic Respiration: A form of respiration using electron acceptors other than oxygen.

Trichomonas vaginalis: A protozoan parasite known to contain hydrogenosomes and cause trichomoniasis in humans.