184k views
1 vote
Which organelle is responsible for autophagy and autolysis?

User Yecats
by
6.4k points

2 Answers

3 votes

Final answer:

The lysosome is responsible for autophagy and autolysis, containing enzymes that degrade cellular components for recycling or to induce controlled cell death.

Step-by-step explanation:

The organelle responsible for both autophagy and autolysis is the lysosome. Lysosomes contain digestive enzymes that can break down cellular components that are no longer needed or are damaged. During autophagy (self-eating), lysosomes degrade a cell's own components to recycle them. However, under certain conditions, lysosomes can also release their enzymes to induce autolysis, where the cell effectively digests itself in a controlled manner, a process known as apoptosis. The enzyme-containing vesicles for this process are formed through the activity of the endoplasmatic reticulum and Golgi apparatus, playing a significant role in the cell's lifecycle and health.

The organelle responsible for autophagy and autolysis is the lysosome. Lysosomes are round organelles surrounded by a membrane that contain enzymes which break down and digest unneeded cellular components. Autophagy is the process by which a cell digests its own structures, while autolysis refers to the breakdown of cells by their own enzymatic action. Lysosomes are also involved in breaking down foreign material and play a role in cell death.

User Jason Ayer
by
7.0k points
1 vote
The answer is lysosomes.
User Kenna
by
6.3k points