lysosome
1 of 1noun/ˈlaɪsəsoʊm/
Forms:lysosomes
1
a small, enzyme-filled sac in a cell that breaks down waste materials and unwanted substances
C2Learn more on Wikipedia- Lysosomes act as the "recycling centers" of cells, breaking down and digesting cellular waste materials.
- Digestive enzymes within lysosomes are capable of breaking down proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids.
- Lysosomes play a vital role in cellular housekeeping by degrading damaged or malfunctioning cellular components.
- The acidic environment within lysosomes aids in the optimal functioning of their digestive enzymes.
- During apoptosis (programmed cell death), lysosomes release enzymes that contribute to the breakdown of cellular components.