Peroxisome

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Peroxisome

Peroxisome (pronunciation: /pɛˈrɒksɪˌsoʊm/) is a type of organelle known for its role in metabolism and the detoxification of harmful substances. They are present in almost all eukaryotic cells.

Etymology

The term "peroxisome" was coined by the Belgian scientist Christian de Duve in 1965. It is derived from the Greek words "peroxi", meaning "around" or "surrounding", and "soma", meaning "body". This refers to the organelle's role in surrounding and neutralizing harmful substances in the cell.

Function

Peroxisomes are involved in a variety of metabolic reactions, including the breakdown of fatty acids through beta-oxidation, the synthesis of plasmalogens (a type of phospholipid important for cell membranes), and the detoxification of harmful substances like alcohol and hydrogen peroxide.

Related Terms

  • Eukaryotic Cells: Cells that contain a nucleus and other organelles enclosed within membranes.
  • Beta Oxidation: The process by which fatty acid molecules are broken down in the cell's mitochondria and/or peroxisomes to generate acetyl-CoA.
  • Plasmalogens: A type of phospholipid that is especially important in the membranes of brain cells.

See Also

External links

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