What do lysosomes contain that allows them to digest cellular waste?

Lysosomes are specialized organelles that play a crucial role in cellular digestion and waste management. They contain highly concentrated hydrolytic enzymes, which are responsible for breaking down various biomolecules such as proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids. This enzymatic action is essential for the degradation of cellular waste products, damaged organelles, and foreign substances, thereby maintaining cellular health and homeostasis.

The hydrolytic enzymes inside lysosomes function optimally at the acidic pH found within these organelles, allowing for efficient digestion. This process is key for cellular recycling—where the components of digested materials can be reused for new cellular synthesis. Without these enzymes, cells would struggle to clear out waste, leading to potential toxic buildup and compromising cell function.

The other options presented do not accurately describe the function or contents of lysosomes. Enzymes that repair DNA are unrelated to lysosomal function, as they are typically found in the nucleus. Oxidative enzymes associated with energy production are primarily found in mitochondria. Proteins that transport materials are involved in cellular processes like vesicle transport, but they do not possess the digestive capabilities of the enzymes found in lysosomes. Therefore, the presence of highly concentrated hydrolytic enzymes in lys