Why mitochondria and chloroplasts came from bacteria

Parts of your cells descend from free-living bacteria

Mitochondria and chloroplasts are descendants of bacteria that once lived on their own before becoming part of other cells. They still carry signs of this past, including their own circular DNA and a bacteria-like way of dividing.

One change in DNA can distort red blood cells

Sickle-cell anemia can result from a change in just one DNA letter. That tiny change alters hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen in blood. The altered protein can form long fibers that bend red blood cells out of shape and make them more likely to block blood vessels.

Groundwater can keep rivers flowing during drought

Underground water can flow into a river when the river sits below the level of the surrounding groundwater. This can keep the river flowing even during a drought.

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Why mitochondria and chloroplasts came from bacteria

Parts of your cells descend from free-living bacteria

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