Lysosomes: The Suicidal Bags of the Cell
The term "suicidal bags of the cell" refers to a specific organelle responsible for breaking down waste materials and cellular debris. This self-destructive capability gives it the nickname.
Identifying the Organelle
Let's analyze the function of each option:
- Golgi complex: Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids.
- Chloroplasts: Site of photosynthesis in plant cells.
- Mitochondria: The powerhouse of the cell, generating ATP through cellular respiration.
- Lysosomes: Contain powerful digestive enzymes (hydrolytic enzymes) that break down worn-out organelles, foreign invaders (like bacteria), and waste products.
Lysosomes and Cell Destruction
Lysosomes contain enzymes capable of digesting various cellular components. If the lysosomal membrane ruptures or becomes damaged, these potent enzymes can be released into the cytoplasm. This release can lead to the digestion and destruction of the cell itself, hence the name "suicidal bags". They play a crucial role in cellular housekeeping and programmed cell death (apoptosis).
Therefore, Lysosomes are correctly identified as the suicidal bags of the cell.
Similar Questions
_____________ are known as the powerhouse of the cell.
- Which of the following are present only in plant cells?
- Cytoplasm is a jelly-like fluid that is present between:
- Who coined the term 'protoplasm'?
- Diffusion is a process by which:
- A jelly-like substance between the nucleus and the cell membrane is called:
- The energy currency of the cell is called as :
- Which is the outermost covering of the cell that separates the contents of the cell from its external environment?
- A single-celled fertilised egg is called a/an:
- Which of the following statements is FALSE?
Important Questions from Cell
In a plant cell, which one of the following contains their own DNA?
Which one of the following structures or components is not always present in living cells?
Which one of the following statements about animal cells and plant cells is correct?
- Which one of the following statements about vacuoles' is not correct?
- A cell is unable to synthesize lipids. Which of its cell organelles might be defective?
