College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) Practice Exam

What is the primary function of the mitochondria in a cell?

1. Storage of genetic material

2. Energy production

3. Protein synthesis

4. Detoxification

The correct answer is: Energy production

The primary function of mitochondria in a cell is energy production, which is essential for cellular function and metabolism. Mitochondria are often referred to as the "powerhouses" of the cell because they convert biochemical energy from nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of the cell. This process, called cellular respiration, involves several steps including glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation. Mitochondria are equipped with their own DNA and ribosomes, enabling them to produce some of the proteins necessary for their function, but their main role remains centered around supplying ATP to meet the energy demands of the cell. This energy is crucial for various cellular processes, including muscle contraction, nerve impulse propagation, and the synthesis of macromolecules. In contrast, the other functions listed—storage of genetic material, protein synthesis, and detoxification—are associated with different cellular organelles. The nucleus is responsible for storing genetic material, while ribosomes and the endoplasmic reticulum are key players in protein synthesis. Detoxification processes primarily occur in the liver through mechanisms involving the smooth endoplasmic reticulum and lysosomes. Therefore, the understanding of mitochondria's pivotal role in energy production clarifies