Admission Test for Dental Hygiene (ATDH) Practice

What role do lysosomes play in a cell?

1. Energy production

2. Protein destruction

3. Lipid detoxification

4. DNA storage

The correct answer is: Protein destruction

Lysosomes play a crucial role in the cell as the primary organelles responsible for the degradation and recycling of cellular waste, including damaged organelles, misfolded proteins, and other macromolecules. They are often referred to as the "digestive system" of the cell due to their content of hydrolytic enzymes that can break down different types of biomolecules. This process of protein destruction is essential for maintaining cellular health and homeostasis, enabling the cell to efficiently remove debris and recycle components to be reused in new cellular functions. In contrast, energy production is primarily handled by mitochondria, lipid detoxification occurs in the smooth endoplasmic reticulum, and DNA storage is managed by the nucleus. Each of these options reflects distinct cellular functions that do not pertain to the lysosomal role.