Mitosomes

Definition

Mitosomes are small organelles found in certain unicellular eukaryotes, particularly those that lack mitochondria. They are involved in iron-sulfur cluster assembly but do not produce ATP.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mitosomes are found in anaerobic or microaerophilic organisms like Giardia lamblia.
2. They evolved from mitochondria through a process of secondary loss.
3. Unlike mitochondria, mitosomes do not participate in cellular respiration.
4. Mitosomes are essential for the maturation of iron-sulfur proteins.
5. Genomics studies indicate that mitosomes retain some mitochondrial genes.

Review Questions

Related terms

Mitochondria:

Organelles responsible for ATP production through cellular respiration.

Hydrogenosomes:

Organelles found in certain anaerobic eukaryotes that produce hydrogen and ATP.

Iron-Sulfur Clusters: Cofactors composed of iron and sulfur atoms, crucial for various cellular processes including enzyme activity.