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In the mitochondrion, the matrix is the space within the inner membrane. The word "matrix" stems from the fact that this space is viscous, compared to the relatively aqueous cytoplasm. The mitochondrial matrix contains the mitochondrial DNA, ribosomes, soluble enzymes, small organic molecules, nucleotide cofactors, and inorganic ions. [1]
The mitochondrion performs most cellular oxidations and produces the bulk of the animal cell's ATP. The mitochondrial matrix contains a large variety of enzymes, including those that convert pyruvate and fatty acids to acetyl CoA and those that oxidize this acetyl CoA to CO 2 through the citric acid cycle.
However, cytochrome c and certain other large proteins also occur here. Matrix: The matrix is innermost compartment, which contains enzymes, mitochondrial DNA, and ribosomes. Essentially, it is the mitochondrial analog to the cell’s cytoplasm. Enzymes in the matrix play roles in the citric acid cycle and oxidation of fatty acids and pyruvate.
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.
This membrane surrounds the mitochondrial matrix, where the citric acid cycle produces the electrons that travel from one protein complex to the next in the inner membrane. At the end of this...
Mitochondria are surrounded by a double-membrane system, consisting of inner and outer mitochondrial membranes separated by an intermembrane space (Figure 10.1). The inner membrane forms numerous folds (cristae), which extend into the interior (or matrix) of the organelle.
Mitochondria are one of the major ancient endomembrane systems in eukaryotic cells. Owing to their ability to produce ATP through respiration, they became a driving force in evolution.