Mitochondria, UC San Diego NCMIR (IMAGE)

University of California - San Diego

Mitochondria, UC San Diego NCMIR

Caption

This is a colorized transmission electron micrograph of cellular mitochondria, which produce a small molecule called ATP. Inside cells, ATP serves as an energy source but released outside the cell, it acts as a danger signal. Suramin inhibits the signaling function of ATP, eliminating the cell danger response associated with autism.

Credit

Photo by Thomas Deerinck, National Center for Microscopy and Imaging Research, UC San Diego

Usage Restrictions

Use photo credit as indicated

License

Licensed content

Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.