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Question

Write short notes in 150 words:
Lysosome

This question was previously asked in
UPSC CSE 2025 (Prelims) CSAT Official Paper (25-May-2025)

Lysosomes are membrane-bound organelles found in eukaryotic cells, often referred to as the "recycling centers" or "waste disposal systems" of the cell. They are roughly spherical vesicles containing a diverse array of powerful hydrolytic enzymes (e.g., proteases, lipases, nucleases, carbohydrases). These enzymes are optimally active in acidic environments, maintained by a proton pump that pumps H+ ions into the lysosome.

The primary function of lysosomes is intracellular digestion. They break down:

  1. Waste Materials: Degraded cellular components, worn-out organelles (autophagy).

  2. Foreign Substances: Materials ingested by the cell through endocytosis (e.g., phagocytosis, pinocytosis) like bacteria, viruses, or cellular debris.

  3. Excess or Unwanted Substances: Unneeded molecules.

By safely containing these destructive enzymes within their membrane, lysosomes play a crucial role in cellular homeostasis, waste management, nutrient recycling, and defense against pathogens. Lysosomal dysfunction can lead to various lysosomal storage diseases due to the accumulation of undigested substrates.

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