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What are the differences between lysosomes and peroxisomes?
Posted October 2, 2023
Cellular ProcessesCellular Structures and OrganellesEnzymesLysosomesPhysiological Probes
Answer
Basis of differentiation 
Lysosomes 
Peroxisomes 
Definition 
Are cellular organelles that are responsible for degrading biological polymers such as proteins and polysaccharides


Are cellular organelles that are responsible for oxidizing organic compounds and degrading metabolic hydrogen peroxides
Occurrence
Occur only in animals
Occur in all eukaryotes
Origin 
May be derived from the endoplasmic reticulum or Golgi apparatus 
Are derived from the endoplasmic reticulum
Size 
Are comparatively larger in size
Are comparatively smaller in size
Composition 
Contain degradative enzymes that help to digest all extracellular materials including food, wastes, and invading pathogens
Contain oxidative enzymes that help to catalyze redox reactions
Function 
  • Degradation of biomolecules, dysfunctional or exhausted organelles, and superfluous extracellular substances 
  • Endocytosis
  • Autophagy
  • Phagocytosis
  • Protection of the cell against metabolic hydrogen peroxide
  • Biosynthesis of lipids 
  • Photorespiration
Generation of energy
No energy is generated as all reactions are degradative
ATP energy is generated as all reactions are oxidative
Additional resources
Peroxisome Size Provides Insights into the Function of Autophagy-related Proteins LysosomesCell Navigator® Lysosome Staining Kit *Blue Fluorescence*

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