Mitochondria have a double-membrane structure. ART-ur/Shutterstock
Mitochondria have received increasing attention in recent years, as they have a big impact on one’s quality of life and rate of aging. Protecting mitochondria can slow aging, prevent chronic diseases, and even fight cancer.
Mitochondria Are the Power Plants of the Cell
Mitochondria are organelles in cells. They are very small, typically between 0.75 and 3 square microns in cross section, and cannot be seen under a microscope unless stained with a dye that can permeate cells.
The number of mitochondria in each cell varies, ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand. Cells with higher energy demands, such as liver cells and cardiac muscle cells, tend to have more mitochondria.
