What role do mitochondria play in cellular respiration?

Mitochondria are often referred to as the powerhouse of the cell because they are critical to the process of cellular respiration, which is fundamental for energy production. During cellular respiration, mitochondria convert nutrients—primarily glucose—into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of the cell, through a series of oxidation-reduction reactions. These reactions involve the transfer of electrons, which releases energy used to synthesize ATP from adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and inorganic phosphate.

In this process, mitochondria facilitate the Krebs cycle and the electron transport chain, both of which are integral steps where biochemical reactions occur, leading to ATP synthesis. The efficient functioning of mitochondria allows cells to meet energy demands for various cellular processes, making them essential to overall cellular function.

The other options represent processes that are either not associated with mitochondria or are incorrect in the context of cellular respiration. For instance, while mitochondria play a role in energy production, they do not produce glucose; that function is primarily associated with photosynthesis in plants. Mitochondria also do not serve as the site of protein synthesis, which occurs in ribosomes, and they do not store genetic material, as that is the