LYSOSOMES

• What is the primary function of lysosomes?

  Breakdown and recycling of large organic molecules
• What are the three basic functions of lysosomes?

  1. Fuse with organelles to activate enzymes
  2. Fuse with vesicles containing extracellular materials
  3. Break down during cell injury or death (autolysis)
• What happens during autolysis in lysosomes?

  Enzymes destroy the cytoplasm
• Why are lysosomes sometimes referred to as "suicide packets"?

  They can cause cell destruction through autolysis