Peroxisomes got their name because hydrogen peroxide is __. a. a cofactor for the organelles’ enzymes b. incorporated into their membranes c. produced during their oxidation reactions d. used in their detoxification reactions
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is d. used in their detoxification reactions.
Peroxisomes are membrane-bound organelles that play a crucial role in cellular metabolism. They are involved in various processes, including the breakdown of fatty acids, the detoxification of harmful substances, and the regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The name “peroxisome” is derived from their involvement in reactions that involve hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a byproduct of these metabolic processes.
Peroxisomes contain enzymes that are responsible for breaking down long-chain fatty acids through beta-oxidation. During this process, hydrogen peroxide is produced as a byproduct. However, hydrogen peroxide is toxic to cells, so peroxisomes also contain catalase, an enzyme that helps to decompose hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, preventing cellular damage.
Moreover, peroxisomes are involved in the detoxification of various substances, including alcohol and other toxic molecules. This detoxification is facilitated by the use of hydrogen peroxide to neutralize the harmful compounds, which is where the key role of hydrogen peroxide in their detoxification reactions comes into play.
The production of hydrogen peroxide during oxidation reactions in peroxisomes is tightly controlled. The organelle’s enzymatic machinery ensures that hydrogen peroxide is used as a reactant in specific biochemical processes, such as the breakdown of fatty acids or detoxification, and not allowed to accumulate to dangerous levels. Therefore, the process in which peroxisomes utilize hydrogen peroxide in detoxifying reactions is a fundamental characteristic of their function within the cell.
