VCAC: Cellular Processes: Mitochondrial Protein Transport: Advanced Look: Matrix

The final steps of protein transport int the mitochondria occur in the matrix space. Clicking on each of the thumbnail images will bring up a larger, labeled version of the described scene.

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	Once inside the matrix space, the protein is again bound by a chaperone to prevent folding.
	The first chaperone then leaves as new chaperonins attach. These new chaperonins will aid in folding the protein into its final shape.
	Soon after entering the matrix, an enzyme known as signal peptidase detects the protein's signal sequence.
	Signal peptidase then cleaves the signal sequence from the protein.
	The chaperonins finish folding the protein into its final shape.
	Once folded into its final shape, the protein is now ready to preform its proper function in the organelle.

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