From www.taylor.edu - Taylor University, integrating faith and learning
Mitochondrial Mysteries

Mitochondrial Power Grid

Are you ready to learn mitochondrial function -- electrons & protons going places and somehow ATP synthesis happens? Have we got a show for you!

But first, please read this:

If this is your first time to this site, start with the mitochondrion icon and then follow the others in order until you have made it through the whole process. That way you will learn the cast of characters and the cute way they are represented in the show, and each part will set you up for the next. However, conceptual development may be acquired best by running through the units in reverse order. Try it and let us know.

The Instructional files below require the Authorware Web Player (version 7) plug-in. You can download the plug-in here. Executable learning modules can be obtained by contacting Dr. John M. Moore at Taylor University or the National Association of Biology Teachers.

Mitochondrial Structure

Mitochondrial Structure

The structure and components of mitochondria directly relate to ATP synthesis. This Interactive learning module on Structure will help you understand the parts. The Flash video is a non-labeled dynamic illustration of the learning module on Mitochondrial structure.


Coenzyme and Electrons Transport

Nucleic Acid Structures

Coenzymes function in the cell as transport molecules for electrons. This module will help to demonstrate the movement of the electrons.


TCA Cycle

TCA Cycle

Learn about the source of most of the electrons used in ATP Synthesis. This learning module shows the NAD+ picking up electrons in the Matrix of the Mitochondria. The breakdown of pyruvate is used in the transition step as Acetyl CoA is produced and added to the TCA cycle.


Coupled Reactions: Electrons Transport System & Proton Translocation

Coupled Reactions

This module instructs on the relationship between the electrons acquired in the TCA cycle and the protons used to generate ATP. Coenzymes are shown transferring electrons to the Electron Transport chain and the proteins of the Electron Transport Chain. The Flash video is a non-labeled dynamic illustration of the learning module on the process of electron transport and proton translocation.

ATP Synthesis

ATP Synthesis

The ATP synthesis learning module explains the mechanism of ATP generation by Chemiosmotic Phosphorylation. The two Flash videos, one from the side the other from the top, is a non-labeled dynamic illustration of the learning module on Chemiosmotic Phosphorylation by the ATP synthase molecule.  

Whole Process

The Whole Process

See how ALL the above processes function in ATP synthesis. The module is more of a summary to the other learning modules. Use this module to see if all the participants in the process can be recognized.

Outside the Mitochondria - Glycolysis

Glycolysis

This module is included, even though Glycolysis occurs in the cyotplasm, not the mitochondria. The metabolic activity of Glycolysis takes places outside the mitochondria in the cytoplasm. The glycolytic process is used to obtain energy for the cell. It is an anaerobic oxidative process. These modules show how the the glycolysis of glucose is related to the mitochondrial process of ATP synthesis.