Lysosomes

Lysosomes are cytoplasmic organelles and are different from others due to their morphology. Lysosomes (Lyso = splitting; soma = body) are found in most eukaryotic cells. They are most abundant in those animal cells, which exhibit phagocytic activity. They are bound by a single membrane and are simple sacs rich in acid phosphatise and several other hydrolytic enzymes.

These enzymes are synthesized on RER and are further processed in the Golgi apparatus. The processed enzymes are budded off as Golgi vesicles and are called as primary Lysosomes.

Discovery

These were discovered in the mid-twentieth century by a Belgian Scientist “de Duve”.

Functions

Because lysosomes contain strong digestive enzymes so these work for the break-down of food and waste materials inside the cell.