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

Previous problemNext problem

1:13 minutes

Problem 9

Textbook Question

When analyzing a sample of cells from a patient, you find the lysosomes are filled with undigested material. This observation makes you think that the lysosomes are not functioning properly. What are three different defects that could be responsible for malfunctioning lysosomes?

Verified step by step guidance

Identify the role of lysosomes in the cell, which is to break down waste materials and cellular debris using digestive enzymes.

Consider the possibility of a defect in the lysosomal membrane, which could prevent the proper fusion with vesicles containing material to be digested.

Evaluate the potential for a deficiency or malfunction in the enzymes within the lysosomes, which could result from genetic mutations affecting enzyme production or function.

Examine the transport mechanisms that deliver enzymes to the lysosomes, as defects in these pathways could lead to enzyme deficiencies within the lysosomes.

Consider the impact of a broader cellular issue, such as a problem with the endocytic pathway, which could affect the delivery of materials to the lysosomes for digestion.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above

Video duration:

Play a video:

Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

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

Lysosomal Storage Disorders

Lysosomal storage disorders are a group of inherited metabolic conditions that result from enzyme deficiencies within lysosomes. These deficiencies prevent the breakdown of specific substrates, leading to their accumulation. Examples include Tay-Sachs disease and Gaucher's disease, where undigested materials build up, causing cellular dysfunction and various health issues.

Enzyme Deficiency

Enzyme deficiency refers to the lack of specific enzymes necessary for biochemical reactions within lysosomes. When these enzymes are absent or malfunctioning, the lysosomes cannot degrade waste materials effectively. This can result from genetic mutations, leading to conditions where substrates accumulate and disrupt normal cellular function.

Autophagy Dysfunction

Autophagy is a cellular process that degrades and recycles cellular components, including damaged organelles and proteins, through lysosomes. Dysfunction in autophagy can lead to the accumulation of cellular debris and undigested materials in lysosomes. This can occur due to genetic mutations or environmental factors, contributing to various diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders.

Watch next

Master Lysosomes & Peroxisomes with a bite sized video explanation from Bruce Bryan

Start learning

Related Videos

Related Practice

Multiple Choice

Which type of plant organelle often occupies the majority of the cell's volume?

Which of the following sequences represents the order in which a protein made in the rough endoplasmic reticulum might move through the endomembrane system?

1472

views

Textbook Question

Which cell would be best for studying lysosomes?a. muscle cellb. nerve cellc. bacterial celld. phagocytic white blood cell

1620

views

Textbook Question

In which cell would you find the most lysosomes?a,. pancreatic cell that secretes digestive enzymesb. ovarian cell that produces estrogen (a steroid hormone)c. muscle cell in the thigh of a long-distance runnerd. white blood cell that engulfs bacteria

1675

views

Multiple Choice

Hydrolytic enzymes must be segregated and packaged to prevent general destruction of cellular components.

In animal cells, which of the following organelles contains these hydrolytic enzymes?

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

views

Multiple Choice

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

views

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?

views

Show more practices

Download the Mobile app

Privacy

Do not sell my personal information

Accessibility

Patent notice

Sitemap