Question

A certain organism's cells die after they become filled with large lipids and proteins of many different sizes. Which of the following is the most likely cause of the cell death?

A) The endoplasmic reticulum is overproducing lipids and proteins.
B) The Golgi bodies are incorrectly packaging lipids.
C) Cell membranes are allowing excess materials into the cell, causing gradients to build up.
D) Lysosomes are malfunctioning, so molecules targeted for destruction are not being removed.

Answer 1

Cell death caused by accumulation of large lipids and proteins is most likely due to lysosome malfunction, which impedes the degradation of cellular waste, leading to autolysis and apoptosis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most likely cause of the cell death where cells become filled with large lipids and proteins of many different sizes is lysosome malfunction. This issue prevents the degradation of molecules meant to be destroyed, leading to the accumulation of these substances inside the cell.

Lysosomes are key organelles responsible for breaking down and recycling macromolecules and cellular debris. If they are malfunctioning, waste products can accumulate within the cell. This can lead to a condition known as autolysis, where the cell's own enzymes digest it, leading to cell death or apoptosis.

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER), Golgi apparatus, and lysosomes are part of the endomembrane system, which is crucial for the synthesis, modification, and transport of proteins and lipids. When this system is disrupted, particularly the lysosomal component, apoptotic pathways can be triggered, leading to the orderly destruction of the cell. In other words, in the absence of proper lysosomal function, the cell cannot maintain its internal environment, resulting in death.