The mitochondria are very funny things. Aside from being the powerhouse of the cell, they also have their own DNA that's independent of our own. Now scientists believe that they even dictate how fast a cell divides and multiplies.

If proven true, that information will prove useful in studying cancer. Cancer happens when cells divide at an uncontrolled rate, so if we know what makes cells divide, we might be able to find a way to control these cancerous cells.

The research, funded by the National Institute of Health, found the link between cell division and mitochondria by studying baker's yeast. The study showed that the yeast's mitochondria sends a signal to the nucleus to begin cell division.

This suggests that it is the mitochondria that handles cell division, and not the nucleus (which contains most of the genetic material). Scientists are now working to understand how and when the message to divide is sent... and probably find a way to destroy Mitochondrial Eve.