Mitochondria play a central role in high school biology curricula as the engine fueling the life cycle of individual cells and, ultimately our tissues, organ systems and bodies. Perhaps less well known is the way mitochondria form dynamic networks with each other, able to change their size, shape and level of connectivity with other mitochondria to adapt to the ever-changing energy demands of the cell. In fact, mitochondria often combine into a single, larger organelle in a process called fusion

What is a mitochondria — and why should you care? Remember learning that mitochondria are the “powerhouse of the cell”? That wasn’t just a science class phrase — it’s foundational to your health. Mitochondria are tiny structures inside your cells that produce energy. ⚡ Depending on the type of cell, you can have anywhere from 0 to 10,000 mitochondria per cell. 💪 Muscle cells? Up to 10,000. Why? Because they need massive energy to function. Here’s where it gets even more important… Mitochondria

Dr. Mike Bround, assistant professor, talks about mitochondria and how better understanding them could help treat diseases in the latest Ask Me About My Research video. See the full interview on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3MaC5in #AMAMR #BCMFaculty | Baylor College of Medicine