Which of the following statements best describesthe functional charact...
Lysosome is called suicidal bag hence contains enzymes which are capable of dissolving cellular apparatus.
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Which of the following statements best describesthe functional charact...
Lysosome is called suicidal bag&hence contains enzymes which are capable of dissolving cellular apparatus.
Which of the following statements best describesthe functional charact...
Lysosomes: Functional Characteristics
Lysosomes are membrane-bound organelles found in eukaryotic cells. They contain various hydrolytic enzymes that are capable of breaking down macromolecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids. Here, we will discuss the functional characteristics of lysosomes and why option C is the correct answer.
1. Acidic pH:
- Lysosomes have an acidic pH (around 4.5-5.0) maintained by proton pumps on their membrane.
- This acidic environment is essential for the optimal activity of the hydrolytic enzymes within the lysosomes.
2. Macromolecular Specificity:
- Lysosomal enzymes are highly specific for their substrates.
- They possess a high degree of macromolecular specificity, meaning that each enzyme targets a particular type of macromolecule.
- For example, proteases specifically degrade proteins, nucleases act on nucleic acids, lipases break down lipids, and carbohydrases target carbohydrates.
3. Intracellular Compartment:
- Lysosomes function primarily within the intracellular compartment.
- They are involved in the degradation of various cellular components, including damaged organelles, excess proteins, and foreign particles (such as bacteria or viruses) that have been engulfed by the cell through processes like phagocytosis or endocytosis.
- Lysosomes fuse with the vesicles containing the materials to be degraded, releasing their hydrolytic enzymes into the vesicles to carry out the breakdown.
4. Role in Fertilization:
- Lysosomes also play a crucial role in the process of fertilization.
- During fertilization, lysosomes are released from the cortical granules of the egg into the perivitelline space.
- The enzymes present in these lysosomes dissolve the membrane of the ovum, preventing the entry of additional sperm cells and ensuring the fusion of only one sperm with the egg.
Conclusion:
Based on the functional characteristics of lysosomes mentioned above, option C is the correct answer. Lysosomes are responsible for the dissolution of the ovum membrane during fertilization, highlighting their role in this specific process. However, it is important to note that lysosomes have other essential functions, such as intracellular degradation and maintaining an acidic pH to facilitate optimal enzyme activity.
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