lysosome
Definition
- Noun:
- A membrane-bound cell organelle: A lysosome is a specialized, sac-like structure within the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells. It is enclosed by a single membrane and contains a variety of powerful digestive enzymes.
- A site of intracellular digestion: The primary function of a lysosome is to break down and recycle various materials. It digests macromolecules, worn-out cell parts, and engulfed particles like bacteria.
Usage
The word lysosome is a scientific term used specifically in cell biology and biochemistry. It functions as a countable noun.
Examples
- Noun:
- The lysosome fuses with a vacuole containing the material to be digested.
- Enzymes within the lysosome are active at an acidic pH.
- A malfunctioning lysosome can lead to storage diseases.
Advanced Usage
- Lysosomal: This is the related adjective form.
- Lysosomal enzymes are crucial for cellular waste processing.
- The lysosomal membrane protects the rest of the cell from the digestive enzymes inside.
Variants and Related Words
- Lysosomal (adjective): Of or relating to a lysosome or its function.
- Lysosomotropic (adjective): Describing a substance that is preferentially taken up into lysosomes.
Synonyms
- Digestive vacuole: (A descriptive synonym, though not perfectly equivalent, as some vacuoles may not contain the full suite of lysosomal enzymes.)
Different Meanings
The word lysosome has a single, specific meaning in biology and does not have other common definitions.
Noun
-
an organelle found in the cytoplasm of most cells (especially in leukocytes and liver and kidney cells)
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