Lysosomes and Their Functions

These flashcards cover key concepts related to lysosomes, including their functions, structure, and importance in cellular digestion and maintenance.

Lysosome

Known as the 'janitor of the cell', it is a membranous sac containing hydrolytic enzymes for digestion.

Hydrolytic Enzymes

Enzymes that catalyze the breakdown of complex molecules; work in acidic conditions.

pH of Lysosomes

Lysosomes have a much more acidic pH than the surrounding cytoplasm, which is necessary for lysosomal enzymes to function.

Phagocytosis

The process by which cells engulf material; lysosomes differ in that they fuse with the material to digest it.

Autophagy

The process by which lysosomes break down damaged or unnecessary cellular components for recycling.

Tay Sachs Disease

A genetic disorder caused by a missing or inactive digestive enzyme in lysosomes, leading to impaired brain function.

Digestive System in Cells

Lysosomes continuously break down and recycle cellular materials, which is vital for the cell's health.

Safety Mechanism of Lysosomes

If a lysosome leaks, the acidic environment limits harm to the cell, but multiple leaks can cause self-digestion and cell death.

Membrane

Lysosomes are enclosed by a phospholipid bilayer membrane that protects their contents.

Cellular Renewal

Lysosomes play a critical role in continually renewing cellular components through digestion and recycling.