What is the function of the intermembrane space in mitochondria?

The intermembrane space, as implied, is the region between the inner and outer membranes. It has an important role in the primary function of mitochondria, which is oxidative phosphorylation. The matrix contains the enzymes that are responsible for the citric acid cycle reactions.

What is the functions of intermembrane space?

The intermembrane space is between the inner and outer membranes and plays a critical role in the transport of protons across mitochondrial membranes during oxidative phosphorylation (66) .

What happens to H in the intermembrane space of mitochondria?

Intermembrane space of mitochondria This process pumps protons (H+) into the intermembrane space. The gradient created (high concentration of protons in the intermembrane space and low concentration in the matrix) causes protons to flow through ATP synthetase in the inner membrane resulting in production of ATP.

What happens in the mitochondrial membrane?

At the inner mitochondrial membrane, a high energy electron is passed along an electron transport chain. The energy released pumps hydrogen out of the matrix space. The gradient created by this drives hydrogen back through the membrane, through ATP synthase.

How does structure of mitochondria relate to its function?

Mitochondria are shaped perfectly to maximize their productivity. They are made of two membranes. The folding of the inner membrane increases the surface area inside the organelle. Since many of the chemical reactions happen on the inner membrane, the increased surface area creates more space for reactions to occur.

What is the inner space of the mitochondria called?

II Introduction. The intermembrane space (IMS) of mitochondria is enclosed by the outer and the inner membrane of the organelle. Since both mitochondrial membranes are only a few nanometers apart, the IMS is a rather tiny compartment of the cell.

What is the function of the matrix in mitochondria?

Function. The mitochondrial matrix is the site of the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, a series of enzymatic reactions initiated by the conversion of pyruvate and fatty acids to acetyl coenzyme A (acetyl-CoA). Pyruvate and fatty acids are transported into mitochondria from the cytoplasm by membrane-bound permeases.

What happens to the concentration of H+ in the intermembrane space and the matrix as electrons move down the ETC?

What happens to the concentration of H+ in the intermembrane space and the matrix as electrons move down the ETC? The concentration of the intermembrane increases while the concentration of the matrix decreases.

What moves H+ ions into the intermembrane space?

Electron transport is the final stage of aerobic respiration. During electron transport, energy is used to pump hydrogen ions across the mitochondrial inner membrane, from the matrix into the intermembrane space.

What does the folding of the mitochondrial inner membrane shown here provide?

The inner membrane of the mitochondrion folds inwards, forming the cristae. This folding allows a greater amount of membrane to be packed into the mitochondrion. The present data show that there is a link between dimerization of the mitochondrial ATP synthase and cristae morphology.

What are the folds in mitochondrial membranes called?

The inner membrane folds over many times and creates layered structures called cristae. The fluid contained in the mitochondria is called the matrix. The folding of the inner membrane increases the surface area inside the organelle.