Describe the structure and function of the mitochondrion.
Most candidates had at least a basic understanding of mitochondral function although some
detail was required for a pass and many did not provide this. A well labelled diagram was used
by many candidates and scored marks. Repetition of the same information illustrated on a
labelled diagram in subsequent text was not required and did not score additional marks.
It was expected answers would cover basic structure (double membrane structure with cristae
and enzymes lining the membrane and within the matrix), details of the electron transport
chain, the citric acid cycle and beta-oxidation of long chain fatty acids and mention the
maternal origin of DNA. Better Answers provided some information on other functions such as
production of reactive oxygen species, role in calcium homeostasis and apoptosis, urea cycle,
haem synthesis and heat production
In the short span of time allowed by this MCQ, you'd be lucky to produce something as good as this (from Cellular Organelles by Bittar):
The most important features of mitochondrial structure are as follows:
Mitochondrial DNA characteristics include
Mitochondrial function includes:
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