Question

Who discovered mitochondria?

Answer 1

​Mitochondria:

1. Popularly known as the “Powerhouse of the cell,” mitochondria are a double membrane-bound organelle found in most eukaryotic organisms.
2. They play a major role in breaking down nutrients and generating energy-rich molecules for the cell.
3. Many of the biochemical reactions involved in cellular respiration take place within the mitochondria.

Discovery:

1. Mitochondria, often referred to as the “powerhouses of the cell”, were first discovered in 1857 by physiologist Albert von Kölliker.
2. Later coined name as “bioblasts” (life germs) by Richard Altman in 1886.
3. The organelles were then renamed “mitochondria” by Carl Benda twelve years later.

Final answer: Mitochondria was discovered by Albert von Kölliker.