Question

How do the mitochondria divide?

Answer 1

Mitochondria divide by binary fission.

Binary fission in mitochondria:

1. Since mitochondria were created by bacterial endosymbiosis, they divide using a method similar to prokaryotic binary fission.
2. Cycles of fission and fusion occur continuously in mitochondria.
3. MtDNA replication is accompanied by fission in the mitochondria.
4. In apoptosis or during a stress reaction, mitochondrial division is important.
5. Improper control of mitochondrial division is linked to a number of neurodegenerative disorders.
6. The fusion and division of mitochondria are mediated by large GTPases.
7. Mitochondrial fission is mediated by the protein Drp1.