LYSOSOMES Meaning and
Definition
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Lysosomes are membrane-bound organelles found in most animal cells that play a crucial role in cellular waste management and digestion. Also known as the "garbage disposals" of the cell, lysosomes contain a variety of hydrolytic enzymes that are capable of breaking down various molecules, including proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids.
These enzymes are active in acidic conditions, and lysosomes have an acidic internal pH maintained by ATP-dependent proton pumps on their membrane. This acidic environment allows the enzymes to function optimally and effectively digest the cellular waste materials.
Lysosomes have a vital role in maintaining cell homeostasis by removing unnecessary or damaged components. They can engulf and degrade intracellular debris such as worn-out organelles, excess proteins, and engulfed bacteria or viruses through a process called autophagy. Lysosomes can also fuse with phagosomes, which are formed during phagocytosis, to break down and eliminate ingested pathogens.
In addition to their role in cellular waste management, lysosomes are involved in various physiological processes such as cellular repair, nutrient recycling, and regulation of cell death. Dysfunction or dysregulation of lysosomes can lead to various diseases collectively known as lysosomal storage disorders. Examples of lysosomal storage disorders include Tay-Sachs disease and Gaucher's disease, which result from the accumulation of undigested substances due to deficient lysosomal enzymes.
Common Misspellings for LYSOSOMES
Etymology of LYSOSOMES
The word "lysosome" is derived from the Greek words "lysis", meaning "loosening" or "dissolution", and "soma", meaning "body". This term was coined by Belgian cytologist Christian de Duve in 1955 to describe the membrane-bound organelles found in animal cells that contain a variety of enzymes capable of breaking down cellular waste and debris through the process of hydrolysis. The name "lysosome" reflects the function of these organelles in the breakdown and recycling of cellular components.
Similar spelling words for LYSOSOMES
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