Staying Alive is reader supported. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn More >

Power, Sex, Suicide

Mitochondria and the Meaning of Life

Profile picture of nick-lane Nick Lane (Author)
Dec 01, 2005 | 368 Pages
Power, Sex, Suicide

Without the humble mitochondria, humans would still be nothing more than single-celled bacteria. These incredible structures are vital for so many different aspects of life; from sculpting embryonic shape to cell suicide and even sexual reproduction.

The wonders don't stop there though - mitochondria are also connected to menopause and aging too!

Nick Lane's captivating and thought-provoking book is a must-read for anyone interested in the incredible science behind mitochondria.

Through comprehensive research, he presents an eye-opening view of how complex life evolved, why sex came about, and why humans age and die. Unlocking these mysteries will broaden your knowledge of this important area of study.

The implications of these findings are paramount in both comprehending life on Earth and managing our own ailments for a longer, healthier lifespan.

Lane elucidates how mitochondria house and express their individual DNA, which mutates at a rate much quicker than those located in the nucleus. This quick mutation is responsible for not only our aging process but also certain inherited conditions.

Recent studies suggest that mitochondria have an essential function in illnesses like cancer. Lane elucidates how mitochondrial DNA is handed down nearly exclusively through the female lineage.

This has been used by some scientists to track human descent from mother to daughter, ultimately identifying "Mitochondrial Eve," providing us with crucial facts about our evolutionary history.

Nick Lane, a celebrated figure in the world of modern science writing, brings you Power, Sex, Suicide; an unprecedented book that delves into the intricate details and workings of these seemingly minuscule entities. Now available to all readers!

Related Books

All Related Books

Related Article