image: Mitochondria in one cell are distributed throughout the cytosol and excluded from the central nucleus. When microtubule polymerization and mitochondrial divisions are inhibited, mitochondria form a variety of shapes revealing their plasticity. view more
Credit: Image from Stephan Frank (Basel University Hospital, Switzerland)
Mitochondria are intracellular organelles that power the cell by metabolizing glucose and other energy sources to generate ATP. They are also critical in programmed cell death, and dysfunction of mitochondrial components is implicated in numerous muscle and neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson's disease.
Mitochondria from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press contains contributions examining the evolution and normal function of mitochondria in cells, as well as their roles in various pathologies.