LYSOSOMESLYSOSOMES

By: Carmelitta Oakley

LysosomesLysosomes

Characteristics:◦Acidic interior◦Contains hydrolytic enzymes◦Surrounded by a membrane

Lysosomes are analogous to the human stomach; the pH within a lysosome is very acidic & the enzymes within work most effectively in this environment.

Functions:Functions:Carrying out digestionrecycling of cellular organellesthe breakdown of viruses and other cellular

invaders

Single-celled organisms, such as amoebas, use lysosomes to digest their food since they have no process for extracellular digestion.

Lysosomal storage Lysosomal storage diseasesdiseases

Undegraded material accumulates within the lysosomes of affected individuals

Most of these diseases result from deficiencies in single lysosomal enzymes.◦Example: Gaucher’s disease

Gaucher diseaseGaucher diseaseMost common of lysosomal storage

diseases

Genetic disorder where there’s accumulation of lipids in cells and organs

results from a mutation in the gene that encodes a lysosomal enzyme required for the breakdown of glycolipids.

Some Signs & Symptoms:Some Signs & Symptoms:Enlarged liver and spleenLow number of red blood cells

(anemia)easy bruising caused by a decrease

in blood plateletslung diseasebone abnormalities such as bone

pain, fractures, and arthritis.Problems with central nervous

system