Which is the organelle that is responsible for breaking down toxic substances?
A. Mitochondria B. Peroxisomes C. Nucleus D. Golgi apparatus
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is B. Peroxisomes.
Peroxisomes are membrane-bound organelles found in the cytoplasm of most eukaryotic cells. Their primary function is to break down various toxic substances, including hydrogen peroxide, a by-product of cellular metabolism. Peroxisomes contain enzymes like catalase that help decompose hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, neutralizing its harmful effects.
In addition to hydrogen peroxide, peroxisomes play a significant role in detoxifying alcohol in liver cells and breaking down long-chain fatty acids through a process known as β-oxidation. The detoxification process is crucial because it helps maintain cellular health by preventing the accumulation of harmful substances that could lead to cellular damage or dysfunction.
Mitochondria, which are often referred to as the powerhouse of the cell, are responsible for energy production through cellular respiration, but they do not directly handle the breakdown of toxic substances. The nucleus, on the other hand, controls cellular functions through gene expression and is not involved in detoxification. The Golgi apparatus is involved in the modification, sorting, and packaging of proteins and lipids, not in breaking down toxins.
Peroxisomes also contribute to lipid metabolism and the synthesis of plasmalogens, a type of phospholipid important in the formation of myelin sheaths in nerve cells. Given their essential role in maintaining cellular integrity and preventing damage from toxic by-products, peroxisomes are vital to overall cellular health. Their dysfunction is linked to various diseases, including certain neurological disorders.
In summary, peroxisomes are critical organelles for detoxification, helping cells manage and neutralize harmful substances.