What differences exist in structure and function between the outer and inner membrane of mitochondria?
Outer membrane | Inner membrane |
It encloses the entire organelle and is continuous. It is smaller than the inner membrane | It is thrown into many folds called cristae. It is 5 times larger than the outer membrane |
It has many integral proteins called porins | It has 5 types of proteins with 5 different functions. It does not contain porins. |
It has protein to phospholipids ratio of 1:1 | It has protein to phospholipids ratio of 3:1 |
Outer membrane | Inner membrane |
Diffusion of ions, nutrient molecules, ATP,ADP | It is the site of ATP synthesis. |