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Lysosome

Lysosomes are small organelles found in plant and animal cells that serve various digestive functions for preserving cellular order. They are generally incorporated into the Golgi apparatus and other larger organelles, that have digestive enzymes called acid hydrolases which are used to digest macromolecules. Inside the lysosome, a normal pH level of 4.8 makes them remarkably effective at selectively dissolving organic substances into their component parts. This environment is separated from the cytosol by a single membrane; if this membrane is damaged, the lysosome will not function properly, but its cell can survive.

Lysosomes are produced by the Golgi apparatus via budding. Enzymes used by lysosomes are produced in the endoplasmic reticulum, and transported to the Golgi apparatus to be distributed to lysosomes. Enzymes found in lysosomes include lipases, carbohydrases, proteases, and nucleases; they dissolve, respectively, lipids, carbohydrates, proteins, and nucleic acids, enabling the lysosome to digest almost any organic substance.

Macromolecules for digestion are acquired through phagocytosis, or ingestion of cells; through internal recycling processes; and through capture of bacteria and viruses. One form of cell death takes advantage of this; autophagic cell death involves autolysis, in which the cell digests itself. Lysosomes are involved in this process.

Lysosomes also function to provide a membrane patch for repairing damage to the plasma membrane. Malfunction of lysosomes in humans can cause Tay-Sachs disease.

Web Resources On Lysosome

Lysosome Information
Lysosome Function

Book Resources On Lysosome

Lysosomes (Cellular Organelles) by Eric Holtzman
Lysosomes (Medical Intelligence Unit) by Paul Saftig (Editor)

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