Mitochondria: the power stations
Why?
Mitochondria release energy from food so the cell can do its work.
Sugar cubes enter a bean-shaped mitochondrion and come out as glowing energy sparks that power a muscle cell to twitch.
Press the button to feed sugar to the mitochondria and power a muscle.
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A sprinter's leg muscle cells are packed with many more mitochondria than skin cells, and they glow brighter as she runs.
Interactive labs
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Worked example
Why would a hummingbird's flying muscles have lots of mitochondria?