Lysosome
Lysosome is a vesicle containing lysozyme. Lysozyme is a mixture of hydrolytic enzymes that can decompose all type of organic compounds inside the living cell.
Normally, lysosome is used for decomposing the damaged organelles. Also, it can be used for intracellular digestion, of self destruction of the cell.
In the decomposition of damaged organelles, the cell would produce membrane to enclose the damaged organelle. Then, the vesicle combines with some lysosomes. Eventually, the lysozyme from the lysosomes would decompose the organelles inside the vesicle.
In intracellular digestion, the food particle should be firstly enclosed inside the food vacuole. Then, lysosomes fuse with the food vesicle. Eventually, the lysozyme from the lysosomes can decompose the food particles. The products formed would be absorbed into the cytoplasm throught the membrane of the food vacuole.
When the cell is used for a period of time, there should be some damage caused. In order to avoid mal-functioning, the old, damaged cell should be replaced with the young and well-functioning ones. At this time, the lysosomes decompose and release the lysozyme in the cytoplasm and starts to decompose the cell. Eventually, the old and damaged cell would be eliminated and replaced with the younger ones. If new cells are produced, but old cells are not eliminated, a tumor is formed.
(26.09.2005)
