Question

1. What are mitochondria? What is their structure andfunction, and where did they come from during evolution? Why aremitochondrial diseases or malfunction problematic to humanhealth?

2. Why are fatigue and “exercise intolerance” (such asOlivia's extreme exhaustion after running) common symptoms ofmitochondrial diseases?

3. Why do you think Olivia has symptoms that affect so manydifferent parts of her body, including her legs, eyes, anddigestive system? What do you think her prognosis is?

4. Why do you think mitochondrial diseases can run in familieslike Olivia's?

5. What is your personal opinion about mitochondrial diseasesand the implications of this case study. What was the mostinteresting/significant thing that you learned from this casestudy? Please explain your answer.