Structure
Lysosomes are actually membranous sacs filled with enzymes. They are spherical bags like structures that are bound by a single layer membrane. Shapes and sizes vary among organisms. Lysosomes are surrounded by their own membranes because they are primarily acidic and need to protect the rest of the cell from the digestive enzymes within. Nucleases, proteases, lipases and carbohydrases are enzymes present in lysosomes that are used to dissolve the wastes. |
Function
Lysosomes act as the disposal system for the cell. They break down complex proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and other macromolecules into simpler compounds. These simple compounds are returned to the cytoplasm and recycled as new cell building materials. They are used for digestion of cellular waste products, dead cells or extracellular material such as foreign invading microbes, that pose a threat to the cell. Another interesting function of the lysosomes is to repair damage to the plasma membrane. They serve as membrane patches and help in sealing wounds in the plasma membrane. Lysosomes are also involved in programmed cell death, or autolysis, which is a catabolic process involving degradation of the cell's own components. |
Lysosomes
The Garbage Men of the Cell