Peroxisomes are small, membrane-bound organelles found in eukaryotic cells that contain enzymes involved in various metabolic processes. They play a crucial role in the detoxification of hydrogen peroxide and the breakdown of fatty acids.
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Peroxisomes contain catalase, an enzyme that breaks down hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen.
They are involved in the beta-oxidation pathway to break down very long-chain fatty acids.
Peroxisomes contribute to lipid metabolism, including the synthesis of plasmalogens important for cell membranes.
They assist in the metabolism of reactive oxygen species (ROS), protecting cells from oxidative damage.
Peroxisomal disorders, such as Zellweger syndrome, result from defects in peroxisome biogenesis or function.