Lysosomes
Lysosomes
Lysosomes (/ˈlaɪsəˌsoʊmz/), from the Greek words lysis ("a loosening") and soma ("body"), are membrane-bound organelles found in most animal cells. They are spherical vesicles that contain hydrolytic enzymes that can break down many kinds of biomolecules.
Etymology
The term "lysosome" was coined by Belgian biologist Christian de Duve in 1955. It is derived from the Greek words lysis, meaning "a loosening" or "dissolution", and soma, meaning "body". This reflects the lysosome's role in breaking down various substances within the cell.
Function
Lysosomes are known as the cell's "garbage disposal". They digest excess or worn-out organelles, food particles, and engulfed viruses or bacteria. The membrane around a lysosome allows the digestive enzymes to work at the 4.5 pH they require. Lysosomes fuse with vacuoles and dispense their enzymes into the vacuoles, digesting their contents. They are created in the Golgi apparatus.
Related Terms
- Autophagy: The process by which cells recycle their own components, often through lysosomes.
- Endocytosis: The process by which cells ingest external materials, which are then often delivered to lysosomes for breakdown.
- Phagocytosis: A specific type of endocytosis involving the ingestion of solid particles, often leading to delivery to lysosomes.
- Golgi apparatus: An organelle involved in the modification and transport of proteins, and the production of lysosomes.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Lysosomes
- Wikipedia's article - Lysosomes
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