Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components

Endomembrane System: Digestive Organelles

Anatomy & Physiology

2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components

Endomembrane System: Digestive Organelles

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2:17 minutes

Problem 21

Textbook Question

Hydrocortisone is an anti-inflammatory drug that stabilizes lysosomal membranes. Explain how this effect reduces cell damage and inflammation.

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the role of lysosomes in the cell: Lysosomes are organelles that contain digestive enzymes capable of breaking down cellular components. When lysosomal membranes are destabilized, these enzymes can leak into the cytoplasm, causing damage to the cell and surrounding tissues.

Recognize the connection between lysosomal membrane stability and inflammation: When lysosomal enzymes are released into the extracellular space, they can trigger an inflammatory response by damaging nearby cells and tissues, leading to swelling, redness, and pain.

Explain how hydrocortisone stabilizes lysosomal membranes: Hydrocortisone, a corticosteroid, strengthens lysosomal membranes, preventing the release of harmful enzymes into the cytoplasm or extracellular space. This reduces the potential for cellular damage.

Describe the reduction in inflammation: By stabilizing lysosomal membranes, hydrocortisone minimizes the release of enzymes that would otherwise contribute to tissue damage and inflammation. This helps to control the inflammatory response and alleviate symptoms such as swelling and pain.

Connect the mechanism to therapeutic effects: Hydrocortisone's ability to stabilize lysosomal membranes and reduce inflammation makes it effective in treating conditions like arthritis, allergic reactions, and other inflammatory disorders.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Lysosomal Membrane Stabilization

Lysosomes are organelles that contain enzymes responsible for breaking down waste materials and cellular debris. When lysosomal membranes are stabilized, it prevents the release of these enzymes into the cytoplasm, which can cause cell damage and inflammation. By maintaining membrane integrity, hydrocortisone helps protect cells from the harmful effects of these enzymes during inflammatory responses.

Inflammation Process

Inflammation is a biological response to harmful stimuli, such as pathogens or tissue injury, characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain. It involves the activation of immune cells and the release of inflammatory mediators. By stabilizing lysosomal membranes, hydrocortisone reduces the release of these mediators, thereby mitigating the overall inflammatory response and minimizing tissue damage.

Cell Damage Mechanisms

Cell damage can occur through various mechanisms, including oxidative stress, enzyme release, and apoptosis. In the context of inflammation, the uncontrolled release of lysosomal enzymes can lead to cellular degradation and necrosis. Hydrocortisone's role in stabilizing lysosomal membranes helps to prevent these damaging processes, thereby preserving cell viability and function during inflammatory conditions.

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Related Practice

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is a membrane-bound organelle that contains digestive enzymes?

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Multiple Choice

Which of the following pathways can deliver materials directly to lysosomes?

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Textbook Question

In their anatomy lab, many students are exposed to the chemical preservatives phenol, formaldehyde, and alcohol. Our cells break down these toxins very effectively. What cellular organelle is responsible for this?

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