BPoD has moved!

BPoD has recently changed our domain name - we can now be found at bpod.org.uk

Please update your bookmarks!

Now in our 13th year of bringing you beautiful imagery from biomedical science every day

Search the archive of over 4000 images

Mapping Mitochondria
26 October 2015

Mapping Mitochondria

All of our cells, except for red blood cells, contain mitochondriaorganelles responsible for generating the energy we need to function. Faults in mitochondria can thus cause a wide range of debilitating symptoms and conditions such as muscle weakness, vision problems and heart disease. Researchers have recently developed a new way of studying the structure and function of subcellular proteins in live tissue, which is essential for understanding cellular organisation and development. This mapping technique has been used for in vivo [in living organisms] studies on the proteins present in the structure of mitochondria in Drosophila – a type of small fly. Pictured are wing imaginal discs – tissue that will develop into fly wings – with and without the labelling of the mitochondrial matrix, the gel-like substance of mitochondria where proteins are made. The mapping allows different mitochondrial proteins to be identified, and gives insight into the genetics behind various mitochondrial diseases.

Written by Helen Thomas

Search The Archive

Submit An Image

Follow on Tumblr

Follow on Instagram

What is BPoD?

BPoD stands for Biomedical Picture of the Day. Managed by the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences until Jul 2023, it is now run independently by a dedicated team of scientists and writers. The website aims to engage everyone, young and old, in the wonders of biology, and its influence on medicine. The ever-growing archive of more than 4000 research images documents over a decade of progress. Explore the collection and see what you discover. Images are kindly provided for inclusion on this website through the generosity of scientists across the globe.

Read More

BPoD is also available in Catalan at www.bpod.cat with translations by the University of Valencia.