Lysosomes
Is there a waste management system in the cell?
Lysosomes are the organelles that are unique to animal cells. They are vesicle-like organelles that contain many biochemical catalysts called digestive enzymes (hydrolases). The enzymes break down food molecules, old cell parts, and harmful bacteria. Evidence suggests that some plant cells contain lysosomes, but they are not as prominent as in animal cells. Please play this step by step animation that illustrates the function of lysosomes.
Lysosomes are covered by a membrane that keeps their strong digestive enzymes inside. Sometimes the contents of lysosomes are released within the cell leading to the autolysis
(self-liquefying) and death of the cell (apoptosis). In such circumstances lysosomes have been aptly named "suicide bags."
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