What are lysosomes? How are they formed? Give their functions.

Lysosomes are tiny sac-like structures found in the cytoplasm. Each lysosome is surrounded by a single membrane and contains powerful enzymes. These enzymes are made by rough endoplasmic reticulum. Lysosomes are budded off from Golgi bodies.

Functions of lysosomes: (i) Lysosomes help in intracellular digestion.

(ii) They help to keep the cell clean by digesting any foreign material as well as worn-out cell organelles. That’s why they are called suicide bags, digestive bags or demolition squads.