PEROXISOMES
Peroxisomes or microbodies are the membrane limited vesicles similar to the lysosomes. Peroxisomes are isolated from the endoplasmic reticulum rather than the Golgi apparatus unlike lysosomes.
Peroxisomes contain several enzymes like urate oxidase, amino acid oxidase, peroxidase which catalyse the oxidation of substrates forming H2O2 (Hydrogen Peroxide). Catalase is the fastest acting enzyme known after carbonic anhydrase and it is a marker enzyme of peroxisomes. Peroxisomes are also involved in β-oxida- tion of fatty acids.2.7.1 Functions
• Fatty acids are broken down through a process known as beta-oxidation, which serves as the primary function of peroxisomes.
• Detoxification involves the breakdown of harmful substances like hydrogen peroxide and other metabolic byproducts. The liver, being the primary organ responsible for detoxification, contains a significant amount of peroxisomes within its cells. When poisons or alcohol enter the cell, hydrogen peroxide is formed. In the presence of hydrogen peroxide, the peroxisomes rupture and release oxidative enzymes. These enzymes effectively eliminate hydrogen peroxide and the enzymes required for its production.
• The peroxisome is the primary location for oxygen consumption within cells.
• Enhance the production of glucose from fats through gluconeogenesis. Degrade purine to uric acid.
• Contribute to formation of myelin.
• Contribute to the synthesis of bile acids.
2.8