Mitochondria Shed Outer Layers to Form Trash-Digesting Organelles During Parasite Invasions

When a parasite invades a cell, the cell’s mitochondria react by shedding their outer layers to form brand-new cellular compartments or organelles that digest molecular trash, @Nature reported. Mitochondria are known as cells’ power plants, providing energy for cellular functions.

Researchers are discovering that mitochondria also play parts in cells’ immune responses, expanding their known roles.

The process involves mitochondria reacting to parasitic invasion by transforming parts of themselves into specialized organelles focused on waste digestion. This mitochondrial shedding creates compartments that handle molecular trash, aiding the cell's defense mechanisms.