What does lysosome mean?
A lysosome is a small, membrane-bound compartment found inside animal cells. It contains digestive enzymes that break down proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and other complex substances, as well as cellular waste and worn-out organelles. In this way, lysosomes contribute both to cellular cleanup and to recycling: useful components can be returned to the cell for reuse. Lysosomes may also destroy certain pathogens that have been taken into the cell. The word is especially important in cell biology, genetics, and medicine because disorders of lysosomal function can lead to the accumulation of harmful substances and diseases affecting the nervous system, organs, bones, or muscles. Although lysosomes were once described mainly as digestive organelles, they also participate in several other cellular processes. In technical writing, the term generally refers to the organelle itself rather than to the broad category of membrane-bound vesicles sometimes called the endolysosomal system.
nounA membrane-bound compartment in a cell that contains digestive enzymes and breaks down certain molecules, cellular waste, and worn-out organelles. Lysosomes also help defend cells by destroying some ingested pathogens.
- A membrane-bound organelle containing hydrolytic enzymes that digest macromolecules, cellular waste, and some pathogens.
"The damaged proteins were broken down inside lysosomes before the cell could reuse them."
"Autophagy delivers cellular components to lysosomes, where they are broken down."
"Certain genetic disorders impair lysosomal function, causing substances to accumulate in cells."
The plural is used when referring to more than one lysosome or to a class of these organelles.
"The cell contained numerous lysosomes that broke down damaged proteins."
A lysosome is the cell's tiny recycling center: it dismantles unwanted material so that the cell can reuse its useful parts.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lysosome come from?
The term lysosome was formed in the 20th century from Greek roots meaning “splitting” or “dissolution” and “body.” It follows the established Greek compound pattern also seen in related terms such as lysis and lysate. The name reflects the organelle's role as a membrane-bound site where cellular materials are broken down.
Related word forms
How lysosome is actually used
Usually used in biology and medicine. It is a technical noun rather than everyday vocabulary, and the informal expression “suicide bag” should be used cautiously in scientific writing.
Easily confused with lysosome
A lysosome is a natural cellular organelle involved in digestion, whereas a liposome is an artificial or naturally occurring lipid vesicle often used to deliver substances in medicine and research.