Lisoszómák

Lisoszómák (lysosomes) are membrane-bound organelles found in animal cells. They contain digestive enzymes that break down waste materials and cellular debris. These enzymes function at an acidic pH, which is maintained within the lysosome by proton pumps in the lysosomal membrane.

Lisoszómák play a crucial role in cellular housekeeping, engulfing and degrading worn-out organelles, foreign invaders like bacteria and viruses, and other cellular waste products through a process called autophagy. They are formed from the Golgi apparatus.

The breakdown of materials within lysosomes results in the recycling of basic building blocks, such as amino acids and sugars, which can be reused by the cell. Defects in lysosomal function can lead to the accumulation of undigested materials, resulting in various lysosomal storage diseases, which are often inherited genetic disorders. Examples include Tay-Sachs disease and Gaucher disease. Their primary function is the degradation of macromolecules, intracellular digestion, and cellular waste removal.