Question

Why are lysosomes commonly called as the ‘suicidal bags’ of the cell?

Answer 1

1. Lysosomes are the membrane bound cell organelles that contain digestive enzymes.
2. They play important role in-

• break-down of worn out cells parts,
• for the destruction of invading bacteria and viruses that might have encountered the human system.
• for the intra-cellular digestion etc.

1. The lysosomes contain certain enzymes which are released via autolysis when there is any damage to the cell, these released enzymes then digest worn-out parts of the cell itself and can also initiate a process of cell death if required, hence they are called the suicidal bags.