Peroxisomes Structure
Peroxisomes are small membrane-bound cellular organelles that range in size from 0.1–1 µm diameter. They are involved in a variety of metabolic reactions, including lipid and energy metabolism. The structure of the peroxisomes is as follows:
- The number, size, shape and protein composition of peroxisomes varies. It depends on cell type and environmental conditions.
- Membrane: Peroxisome membrane is made of a phospholipid bilayer. It consists of two layers of fat molecules and proteins that allow contents to move in and out of the cell.
- Matrix: Peroxisomes are circular in cross section and contain fine granular matrix. The matrix of a peroxisome is made up of fibrils or a crystalloid structure that contains enzymes.
- Enzymes: There are around 60 known enzymes present in the matrix of the peroxisomes. The main enzymes present are urate oxidase, D-amino acid oxidase and catalase. These enzymes are responsible for break down of hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen.
- Compartmentalization within peroxisomes provides an optimized environment to carry out various metabolic reactions within it. It is required to sustain various cellular functions and viability of the organism.
- Peroxisomes are found in close association of ER, mitochondria or chloroplast within the cell.
- Peroxisomes lacks DNA and proteins are transported after translation from the cytosol.
Peroxisomes: Definition, Structure, Diagram & Functions
Peroxisomes are membrane-bound organelles found in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells. They are small vesicles that contain digestive and oxidative enzymes. Peroxisomes are involved in various metabolic processes, particularly those related to lipid metabolism and detoxification.
It is made of a phospholipid bilayer with a fine granular matrix, which contains a variety of enzymes that carry out various metabolic processes. In this article, we will study peroxisomes, their structure with a well-labeled diagram, and the functions of peroxisomes in detail.
Table of Content
- Peroxisomes Definition
- What are Peroxisomes?
- Peroxisomes Diagram
- Peroxisomes Structure
- Peroxisome Functions
- Metabolism of Peroxisomes
- Peroxisomal Disorders
- Difference Between Peroxisome and Lysosomes