Final answer:
In cell biology, vacuoles primarily store water, salts, and proteins. They can also store other substances including nucleic acids, lipids, carbohydrates, enzymes, waste products and toxins, varying with cell type and requirement.
Step-by-step explanation:
Vacuoles are membrane-bound sacs that function in storage and transport within cells. Their main role is to store a variety of substances, of which, water, salts, and proteins are primarily stored in them. These substances can be crucial for a cell's survival. In the case of plant cells, vacuoles serve a vital function by storing water which helps in maintaining the cell's turgidity and thereby, the plant's structure.
In addition to water, salts, and proteins, vacuoles can also store other components such as amino acids, enzymes, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids. In certain favorable or stressful conditions, they might also store waste products and toxins. These contents vary depending on the cell type and its specific needs. The storage and release of these substances, when required, enable the cell to perform necessary functions and adapt to changing environments.
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