LYSOSOMES
By: Jesika Tolar & Gracie Forga
What are Lysosomes?
A Lysosome is an organelle in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells containing degradative enzymes enclosed in a membrane. The word 'lysosome' is derived from the two Greek words - 'lysis' (destruction) and 'soma' (body).
What is their function?
Lysosomes are specialized membrane-bound vesicles that contain enzymes for molecular digestion. Owing to these enzymes, they play a major role in recycling of molecules, disposal of cellular debris, cell membrane repair, phagocytosis as well as programmed cell death. Lysosomes are found in animal cells and are very rare in plant cells.