Question

neurons have more mitochondria than cheek cells. suggest why.

Answer 1

Answer:

Muscle cells need energy to do mechanical work and respond quickly. Thus a higher number of mitochondria is present so that the cells requirement of energy to perform its specific function is fulfilled.

Answer 2

Neurons depend on mitochondria. ATP generation by mitochondrial respiration in the brain consumes 20‰ of the body's oxygen although the brain is 2‰ of the mass of the body. Every part of the neuron requires ATP and therefore requires mitochondria to be present.

Explanation:

• Neurons have more extended and complex shapes than other cells and consequently face a greater challenge in distributing and maintaining mitochondria throughout their arbors.
• Axonal transport of mitochondria and mitochondrial fission and fusion contribute to this rejuvenation, with local protein synthesis likely also to be involved.
• Maintenance of a healthy mitochondrial population also requires the clearance of damaged proteins and organelles.
• The axon in the nodal region usually contains concentrations of organelles, especially mitochondria.