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What are the functions of peroxisomes in the cell?
Posted October 2, 2023
Answer
Peroxisomes are membrane–bound vesicles that play an important role in various metabolic pathways.
- The main function of peroxisomes is oxidation of fatty acids, which are the foremost source of metabolic energy.
- Peroxisomes also participate in lipid metabolism, catabolism of polyamines, D-amino acids, and bile acids in addition to various oxidative processes.
- Enzymes present in peroxisomes catalyze both the production and degradation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), which is a reactive oxygen species. H2O2 is broken down and converted to water or used to oxidize other organic compounds.
- In mammals, peroxisomes play a key role in biosynthesis of phospholipids that maintain normal function in the brain and lungs.
- In plants, peroxisomes prevent loss of energy during photosynthesis. They also generate carbohydrates from stored fatty acids, ensuring that germinating plants get the energy and raw materials necessary for growth.