Biology · Cell Structure and Function
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Cellular organelles that interact with hydrogen peroxide are called?
- A
Glyoxysomes
- B
Lysosomes
- C
Ribosomes
- D
Peroxisomes
The correct answer is Peroxisomes. Peroxisomes are organelles that contain enzymes, such as catalase, specifically involved in the metabolism of hydrogen peroxide. They help in detoxifying cells by converting hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. This function is crucial for maintaining cellular health and preventing damage from reactive oxygen species.
Glyoxysomes, while a type of peroxisome found in plants, are primarily involved in lipid metabolism, not directly in hydrogen peroxide breakdown.
Lysosomes are involved in digesting cellular waste and do not interact with hydrogen peroxide.
Ribosomes are involved in protein synthesis and have no role in hydrogen peroxide metabolism.
Glyoxysomes are specialized peroxisomes found in plant cells, particularly in seedlings. They are involved in the conversion of fatty acids to carbohydrates via the glyoxylate cycle. However, they are not primarily associated with the general breakdown of hydrogen peroxide.
Lysosomes are organelles containing digestive enzymes that break down waste materials and cellular debris. They are not primarily involved in the metabolism of hydrogen peroxide.
Ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis and do not play a role in interacting with hydrogen peroxide.
Peroxisomes contain enzymes like catalase and peroxidase that are specifically involved in the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide, making them the correct answer. They facilitate the conversion of hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, thus detoxifying the cell.
Tagged under Biology · Cell Structure and Function · 2021