ENGLISH
REFERENCE

mitochondrial

adj.
C1 Advanced US //ˌmaɪtəˈkɑndɹiəɫ// UK //mˌaɪtəkˈɒndɹɪəl// mi·to·chon·dri·al

adj. relating to the part of a cell that makes energy. You use this word when talking about biology or how your body gets power from food.

adj. relating to or derived from mitochondria, the organelles responsible for energy production within eukaryotic cells. Typically used in biological, medical, or genetic contexts.


SIMPLE

Mitochondrial DNA is passed down from the mother.

CONTEXTUAL

The patient was diagnosed with a rare mitochondrial disease that affects how her muscles use oxygen.

COMPLEX

Researchers are investigating how mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to the aging process and the development of neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson's disease.

Origin

From mitochondria + -al.

Usage

Typically used attributively before a noun; often found in scientific collocations like 'mitochondrial DNA' or 'mitochondrial matrix'.

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