In the world of cells, mitochondria are often known as "energy factories", which provide endless energy for life activities-ATP (adenosine triphosphate). However, the significance of mitochondria to health goes far beyond this. It is like a microscopic energy field in the human body, hiding many health-related codes, waiting for us to explore.
Mitochondria, like a series of exquisite "generator sets", have a unique structure, with an inner membrane and an outer membrane, and the inner membrane is folded into multiple ridges, which greatly expands the "workbench" of chemical reactions. In this square inch, the last steps of cell respiration-electron transfer chain and oxidative phosphorylation process are carried out in an orderly manner, transforming the energy generated by oxidative decomposition of nutrients such as glucose into ATP that can be directly used by organisms. In a normal cell, mitochondria can produce ATP several times their own weight every day, which supports the normal operation of various physiological functions such as heartbeat, breathing and thinking beating.
With the deepening of scientific research, mitochondria play a key role in the aging process. Just like a machine that has gone through years, mitochondria will "wear" with age. Its DNA may be damaged by internal and external oxidative stress, radiation and other factors, and the repair mechanism is also inadequate, which leads to functional decline. The decline of mitochondrial function will lead to insufficient energy supply in cells, weakened cell activity, followed by a series of aging-related symptoms, such as skin loss of elasticity, muscle strength decline, memory loss, etc., just like the "energy fire" of life gradually faded.
Mitochondria are also hidden in the inflammatory reaction. When cells encounter pathogen invasion or tissue damage, mitochondria will release molecules similar to "distress signals", which activate the immune system and trigger inflammatory reactions to defend against foreign enemies. However, once the mitochondria over-release signals under some abnormal conditions, or the inflammatory reaction is out of control, it will be like an out-of-control "fire alarm", causing chronic inflammation, which is a hotbed of many chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, quietly eroding health.
Interestingly, mitochondria can also exert influence on the fate of cells. It is involved in the regulation of apoptosis, which is a physiological cell suicide procedure, and can remove aging, pathological, redundant or dangerous cells. When cells suffer from serious injury, gene mutation or receive apoptosis signals, mitochondria will release cytochrome C and other substances, activate the apoptosis pathway, and urge cells to go to the "end" quietly and orderly, so as to avoid the continued expansion of diseased cells and harm the whole body.
In daily life, we can also contribute to the health of mitochondria. A reasonable diet is like delivering "high-quality fuel" to mitochondria, and foods rich in antioxidants such as blueberries and green tea can resist mitochondrial oxidative damage; Moderate exercise is like "energy training" for mitochondria, especially aerobic exercise, which can enhance mitochondrial function, stimulate its proliferation and make energy metabolism more efficient; Regular work and rest and avoiding excessive stress are also "lubricants" to maintain the stable operation of mitochondria. Long-term high stress hormone cortisol will interfere with the normal function of mitochondria and disrupt the physiological rhythm.
Mitochondria, a tiny but vital existence, is always closely linked with our health. Exploring it in depth may unlock more mysteries of delaying aging and preventing diseases, and let us explore the vitality of life in the interweaving of micro-world and macro-health.
