vacuólumok

Vacuolumok, often referred to as vacuoles, are membrane-bound organelles found in plant, fungal, and some protist cells. In animal cells, small vacuoles may be present but are generally less prominent and transient. The primary function of vacuoles is storage, acting as versatile compartments within the cell. They can store water, ions, nutrients, waste products, and even pigments. The largest and most prominent vacuole in mature plant cells is the central vacuole, which can occupy up to 90% of the cell's volume. This central vacuole plays a crucial role in maintaining turgor pressure, which provides structural support to the plant. It also participates in the breakdown of waste products and macromolecules, similar to lysosomes in animal cells. The membrane surrounding a vacuole is called the tonoplast. Vacuoles can also be involved in defense mechanisms, storing toxic compounds that deter herbivores. In some protists, contractile vacuoles are specialized for expelling excess water from the cell, preventing it from bursting. The size, number, and function of vacuoles can vary significantly depending on the cell type and the organism's environment.