Apentix/AP Biology/Unit 2: Cell Structure and Function/Question
AP Biologyeasymcq1 pt

Lysosomal enzymes could digest the cell's own cytosolic proteins if they escaped the organelle. What advantage does the lysosomal membrane provide?

A.The membrane manufactures fresh digestive enzymes locally around the clock.
B.It converts escaped enzymes into permanent inactive forms that can never digest anything.
C.It raises lysosomal pH until the interior matches the cytosol, keeping enzymes harmless everywhere.
D.It seals hydrolases inside an isolated acidic compartment maintained near pH 5.

Explanation

Core Concept

The lysosomal membrane keeps acid hydrolases physically separated from most cytosolic substrates and allows the organelle to maintain the acidic lumen in which many of those enzymes work best. If an acid hydrolase escapes into the near-neutral cytosol, its catalytic activity is generally reduced because its ionization state is less favorable; the main point is not that the protein necessarily 'folds poorly' at neutral pH.

Correct Answer

DIt seals hydrolases inside an isolated acidic compartment maintained near pH 5.

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