Question

Lysosomes function in a. protein synthesis. b. processing and packaging. c. intracellular digestion. d. lipid synthesis.

Short answer

The correct answer is c. Intracellular digestion, as lysosomes contain hydrolytic enzymes responsible for breaking down biomolecules and cellular waste within the cell.

Step-by-step solution

Understand lysosomes

Lysosomes are membrane-bound organelles found in animal cells. They contain hydrolytic enzymes that can break down various biomolecules such as lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

Review each option and match it with lysosome function

a. Protein synthesis: This is the process by which cells create new proteins. While lysosomes play a role in breaking down proteins, they do not participate in their synthesis. b. Processing and packaging: This function is mainly associated with another organelle called the Golgi apparatus, which modifies, sorts and packages molecules for transport within the cell and secretion outside the cell. c. Intracellular digestion: This is the process by which lysosomes break down biomolecules and cellular waste. The enzymes within lysosomes can digest various substances within the cell, including ingested bacteria and cellular components. This makes intracellular digestion the most plausible function of lysosomes. d. Lipid synthesis: The synthesis of lipids primarily occurs in another organelle called the endoplasmic reticulum, specifically in the smooth endoplasmic reticulum where lipid synthesis and metabolism take place.

Identify the correct answer

Based on our analysis and understanding of lysosomes, we can conclude that the correct answer is: c. Intracellular digestion.