Which of these organelles contain digestive enzymes?
A Ribosomes
B Chloroplasts
C Mitochondria
D Lysosomes
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: D. Lysosomes
Lysosomes are specialized organelles found in most animal cells, and they are responsible for digestion within the cell. These small, membrane-bound structures contain a variety of digestive enzymes that break down biomolecules, including proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids. The enzymes inside lysosomes function optimally at an acidic pH, which is maintained by proton pumps in the lysosomal membrane.
The primary role of lysosomes is to degrade and recycle cellular waste, damaged organelles, and foreign substances that enter the cell. This process is essential for maintaining cellular health and efficiency. When materials are engulfed by the cell through endocytosis or phagocytosis, they are delivered to the lysosome where they are broken down. The resulting simple molecules can be reused by the cell for various functions, such as energy production or building new components.
Lysosomes are sometimes referred to as the cell’s “garbage disposal” system due to their crucial role in cleaning up cellular debris. They are also involved in processes like autophagy, where the cell digests its own damaged organelles or cytoplasmic material in a controlled manner. This helps prevent the accumulation of harmful or nonfunctional components within the cell.
In contrast, the other organelles mentioned serve different purposes. Ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis and do not contain enzymes for digestion. Chloroplasts, found in plant cells, carry out photosynthesis. Mitochondria are known as the powerhouses of the cell because they produce energy in the form of ATP through cellular respiration, but they do not contain digestive enzymes.
Thus, among the options provided, only lysosomes function as cellular organelles containing digestive enzymes essential for breaking down waste and cellular components.