Q.3 Mitochondria is involved in –
l. Oxidative phosphorylation and Beta oxidation
2. Independent protein synthesis
3. Both (1) and (2)
4. Digestion of lipids and proteins
Mitochondria are primarily involved in oxidative phosphorylation and beta oxidation, making option 1 correct. They do not independently synthesize proteins or digest macromolecules.
Option Analysis
Oxidative phosphorylation and Beta oxidation is accurate. Mitochondria host the electron transport chain and ATP synthase for oxidative phosphorylation (generating ~90% of cellular ATP), while their matrix enzymes perform beta oxidation, breaking down fatty acyl-CoA into acetyl-CoA for the TCA cycle.
Independent protein synthesis is incorrect for this context. Mitochondria have their own ribosomes and genome for some proteins, but most rely on cytoplasmic machinery; this isn’t their defining role here.
Both (1) and (2) fails because protein synthesis is limited, not a primary or “independent” hallmark compared to energy metabolism.
Digestion of lipids and proteins is wrong. Beta oxidation degrades fatty acids (not full lipid digestion), and protein breakdown occurs via lysosomes or ubiquitin-proteasome, not mitochondria.
Mitochondria is involved in oxidative phosphorylation and beta oxidation, powering cells as the “powerhouse” through ATP production and fatty acid breakdown.
Core Processes
Oxidative phosphorylation occurs across inner membrane cristae: ETC pumps protons, ATP synthase harnesses the gradient. Beta oxidation in the matrix shortens fatty acids (e.g., via acyl-CoA dehydrogenase), yielding acetyl-CoA, NADH, FADH2 for TCA/ETC fueling.
Comparison Table
| Option | Role in Mitochondria | Accurate? |
|---|---|---|
| Oxidative phosphorylation & Beta oxidation | ATP generation, fatty acid catabolism | Yes |
| Independent protein synthesis | Limited mtDNA translation | Partial/No |
| Both | N/A | No |
| Digestion of lipids/proteins | Beta oxidation (specific), no general digestion | No |
Exam Tips
Questions on what mitochondria is involved in oxidative phosphorylation and beta oxidation test metabolic pathways over ancillary functions, key for GATE Life Sciences.
