Final answer:
Lysosomes contain hydrolytic enzymes that can break down diverse macromolecules, cell parts, and microorganisms. They play a role in digesting non-functioning organelles, macromolecules, and pathogens that enter the cell. Macrophages are an example of cells that use lysosomes to destroy pathogens through a process called phagocytosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lysosomes are organelles found in animal cells that contain hydrolytic enzymes. These enzymes, called acid hydrolases, are capable of breaking down diverse macromolecules, cell parts, and microorganisms. They catalyze hydrolysis reactions and work optimally at a pH of around 4.5. Lysosomes use their hydrolytic enzymes to digest non-functioning organelles, macromolecules, and pathogens that enter the cell. For example, in a process known as phagocytosis, macrophages engulf pathogens into a vesicle which fuses with a lysosome, allowing the enzymes to destroy the pathogen.