Which organelle function in intracellular digestion?

The primary organelle responsible for intracellular digestion is the lysosome. Lysosomes are membrane-bound sacs found in animal cells that contain a variety of digestive enzymes. These enzymes are capable of breaking down various biomolecules, including proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids.

When substances are taken into the cell through processes like endocytosis or phagocytosis, they end up enclosed within vesicles called endosomes. As these endosomes mature, they fuse with lysosomes, forming larger structures known as secondary lysosomes. Within these secondary lysosomes, the digestive enzymes break down the engulfed material, eventually converting it into smaller molecules that the cell can utilize.

Lysosomes also play a role in the removal of damaged or worn-out organelles through a process called autophagy. During autophagy, portions of the cell membrane surround unwanted organelles, creating autophagosomes. These autophagosomes then fuse with lysosomes, leading to the breakdown and recycling of the enclosed cellular components.

In summary, lysosomes function as the intracellular digestive system of animal cells by breaking down waste materials, nutrients, and worn-out organelles, thus maintaining cellular homeostasis.