# What are mitochondria and what is their role in the body?

Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-are-mitochondria-and-their-role-in-the-body
Language: en
Category: neurology
Publisher: ClinicsJo
Published: 2026-09-13T08:09:52.402Z
Content updated: 2026-09-13T08:09:52.402Z
Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/what-are-mitochondria-and-their-role-in-the-body

Mitochondria are small organelles found within most cells of the body, often known as the "power plants" of the cell. Their primary role is to produce the energy necessary for performing the vital functions of the cell and the entire body. Mitochondria accomplish this through a complex process called metabolism, where they combine oxygen with fuel molecules (such as sugars and fats) derived from the food we eat to convert them into usable energy [\[1\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-are-mitochondria-and-their-role-in-the-body#source-S1>).

## How do mitochondria work?

The metabolic process carried out by mitochondria depends on converting food into fuel. The digestive system breaks down proteins, carbohydrates, and fats in food into sugars and acids. These small molecules are used as immediate fuel or stored in body tissues. Inside the mitochondria, this fuel is combined with oxygen to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the main form of energy used by cells [\[1\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-are-mitochondria-and-their-role-in-the-body#source-S1>).

## The importance of mitochondria for bodily functions

Due to their pivotal role in energy production, mitochondria are essential for every cellular and vital function. When mitochondria do not function properly, cells do not receive enough energy. This lack of energy can affect any part of the body, but it often affects organs with high energy demands such as the brain, muscles, heart, kidneys, eyes, and ears [\[2\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-are-mitochondria-and-their-role-in-the-body#source-S2>). Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and may affect one or several organs at the same time [\[1\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-are-mitochondria-and-their-role-in-the-body#source-S1>).

## What happens when there is a mitochondrial defect?

When mitochondria are defective, unused oxygen and fuel molecules accumulate within the cells, causing damage. This can lead to a wide range of disorders known as [mitochondrial diseases (Arabic)](<https://clinicsjo.com/ar/articles/mitochondrial-diseases-cellular-energy-disorders>), which are metabolic disorders [\[1\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-are-mitochondria-and-their-role-in-the-body#source-S1>). These diseases are often hereditary and result from genetic mutations that affect mitochondrial function [\[2\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-are-mitochondria-and-their-role-in-the-body#source-S2>). For example, in some cases of 2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria, mutations occur in genes responsible for mitochondrial enzymes that break down certain compounds to produce energy, leading to the accumulation of these compounds and damage to brain cells [\[3\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-are-mitochondria-and-their-role-in-the-body#source-S3>).

## Signs and symptoms that may indicate a mitochondrial problem

Because mitochondrial diseases can affect any system in the body, symptoms vary significantly. However, common symptoms that may indicate a mitochondrial defect include:

- Neurological issues such as migraines, seizures, and problems with balance and coordination (ataxia) [\[2\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-are-mitochondria-and-their-role-in-the-body#source-S2>).

- Muscle weakness, fatigue, and exercise intolerance [\[2\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-are-mitochondria-and-their-role-in-the-body#source-S2>).

- Vision or hearing problems [\[2\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-are-mitochondria-and-their-role-in-the-body#source-S2>).

- Heart problems such as irregular heartbeats [\[2\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-are-mitochondria-and-their-role-in-the-body#source-S2>).

- Kidney or liver problems [\[2\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-are-mitochondria-and-their-role-in-the-body#source-S2>).

- Growth delays or digestive problems [\[2\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-are-mitochondria-and-their-role-in-the-body#source-S2>).

If you suspect you have any of these symptoms, especially if they are multiple or worsening, it is important to consult a doctor to undergo the necessary examinations. Early diagnosis can help manage symptoms and provide appropriate support.

## Medical references

- [Mitochondrial Diseases](<https://medlineplus.gov/mitochondrialdiseases.html>)

- [Mitochondrial Disorders](<https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/mitochondrial-disorders>)

- [2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria](<https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/2-hydroxyglutaric-aciduria/>)

General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment.

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