A type of organelle found in both animal and plant cells, a peroxisome is a membrane-bound cellular organelle that contains mostly enzymes. Peroxisomes perform important functions, including lipid metabolism and chemical detoxification. They also carry out oxidation reactions that break down fatty acids and amino acids.
The enzymes within peroxisomes serve to transfer hydrogen atoms from various molecules to oxygen, producing hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). In this way, peroxisomes neutralize poisons like free radicals that enter the body. They produce large amounts of the toxic H2O2 in the process but contain enzymes that convert H2O2 into water and oxygen.
Key Points
• A peroxisome is a membrane-bound cellular organelle that contains mostly enzymes found in both animal and plant cells.
• Peroxisomes neutralize harmful substances and produce hydrogen peroxide. They also have enzymes that can convert hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen.
Key Terms
peroxisome: membrane-bound cellular organelle that contains mostly enzymes; important for detoxification
lipid metabolism: is the synthesis and degradation of lipids in cells
detoxification: removal of toxic substances from a living organism
oxidation: the loss of electrons during a reaction by a molecule, atom or ion
free radicals: unstable atoms that can damage cells, causing illness and ageing
