What is primarily contained within peroxisomes in a cell?

Peroxisomes are specialized organelles within cells that play a crucial role in various metabolic processes, particularly in the breakdown of fatty acids and the detoxification of harmful substances. The primary function of peroxisomes involves the presence of oxidase enzymes, which facilitate the oxidation of fatty acids. These enzymes also contribute to the production of hydrogen peroxide, a byproduct that is subsequently broken down by catalase, another enzyme found within the peroxisome. This dynamic makes peroxisomes essential for maintaining cellular health by metabolizing long-chain fatty acids and neutralizing toxic compounds.

In contrast, ribosomal RNA is mainly found in ribosomes and is essential for protein synthesis, while protein enzymes can be found throughout various organelles and cellular compartments, but are not specific to peroxisomes. Cellular debris refers to waste products and aged cellular components that can be found in various parts of the cell but does not represent a primary function or component of peroxisomes. Thus, the presence of oxidase enzymes defines the significant role of peroxisomes in the cell.