Question

In their free living state what biomolecules would mitochondria and photosynthesis recycle which would otherwise prove toxic?

Answer 1

Photosynthesis can be called a physio-chemical process through which light energy is converted to organic compounds. Photosynthesis gives out oxygen and carbohydrates as the end product. These biomolecules consists of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen atoms. They are also called as saccharides. They are the main energy sources as well as the structural components of an organism. The sugars can be carried to other parts of the plant by the vascular tissue known as phloem and the molecular oxygen is an important source of oxygen in our atmosphere. The hydrogen ions produced are used in reducing reaction of NADP to NADPH. This NADPH is a main gradient for the synthesis of ATR, and electrons transfer takes place from PS II to PS I by electron carriers. Mitochondria is considered as the powerhouse of a cell. The main function of mitochondia is to convert glucose into ATP molecules (Adenosine Triphosphate). ATP is the basic unit of energy in our body. This process of conversion is known as aerobic respiration and due to this reason we can breathe. These energy production consissts of many steps: glycolysis, the TCA (Tricarboxylic acid cycle also known as Kreb’s cycle or Citric acid cycle) and the electron transport chain. 36 ATP can be produced by every glucose molecule. All these can be occued in the inner membrane of the mitochondrion. So, plants get energy in photosynthesis from sunlight while in respiration, the breakdown of glucose molecules occur to release energy in the form ( ATP). Thus, these two processes are interdependent. The end products of the photosynthesis are used in respiration for energy purpose. Mitochondria can also break down lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.  Biomolecules are inportant to us but they may be harmful and toxic if misused or over accumulated in our body. These elements may even lead to neurodegenerative diseases, dermatological conditions, carcinogenic processes and many more. So, these biomolecules need to be recycled.