Lysosomes are spherical, membrane bound organelles that are generated by the golgi apparatus. They contain hydrolytic enzymes, and so function as part of the recycling system of the cell.

In this article, we will look at the structure, synthesis and function of lysosomes, and we will consider their relevance to clinical practice.



The hydrolytic enzymes contained within the lysosome allow foreign particles to be destroyed. Lysosomes play an important role in phagocytosis. When macrophages phagocytose foreign particles, they contain them within a phagosome. The phagosome will then bind with a lysosome to form a phagolysosome.

These enzymes are critical in oxygen-independent killing mechanisms. Lysosomes also help to defend against pathogen entry via endocytosis by degrading pathogens before they reach the cytoplasm.

The organelle of the cell that is involved in the formation of lysosomes is the Golgi apparatus.

The Golgi Apparatus:
The Golgi apparatus, also known as the Golgi complex or Golgi body, is a membrane-bound organelle found in eukaryotic cells. It is named after its discoverer, Camillo Golgi, an Italian physician and biologist. The Golgi apparatus consists of a series of flattened membrane-bound sacs known as cisternae. These cisternae are stacked on top of each other and are surrounded by vesicles.

Function in the Cell:
The Golgi apparatus plays a crucial role in the processing, packaging, and sorting of proteins and lipids in the cell. It performs several important functions, including:

1. Modification of Proteins: The Golgi apparatus modifies proteins that are synthesized in the rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER). It adds various types of sugars to the proteins, a process known as glycosylation. This modification helps in determining the function, stability, and destination of the proteins.

2. Formation of Lysosomes: One of the key functions of the Golgi apparatus is the formation of lysosomes. Lysosomes are membrane-bound organelles that contain hydrolytic enzymes responsible for breaking down waste materials, cellular debris, and macromolecules. The Golgi apparatus packages these enzymes into vesicles called lysosomes and then releases them into the cytoplasm.

3. Sorting and Packaging: The Golgi apparatus sorts the modified proteins and lipids into different vesicles based on their destination. It tags the proteins and lipids with specific molecular markers to direct them to their intended locations within the cell. These vesicles can be transported to various parts of the cell, such as the plasma membrane for secretion or other organelles for specific functions.

4. Formation of Secretory Vesicles: The Golgi apparatus is responsible for the formation of secretory vesicles, which contain proteins and lipids to be secreted by the cell. These vesicles bud off from the Golgi apparatus and are transported to the plasma membrane for release.

5. Membrane Recycling: The Golgi apparatus also plays a role in membrane recycling. It receives vesicles from the plasma membrane, processes their contents, and recycles the membrane components back to the plasma membrane or other cellular compartments.

In conclusion, the Golgi apparatus is a vital organelle involved in the formation of lysosomes and various other functions related to protein and lipid processing, sorting, packaging, and secretion in the cell.