Which cell structure contains digestive enzymes and is responsible for breaking down worn-out organelles?

Lysosomes are specialized structures within the cell that contain digestive enzymes. These enzymes are critical for breaking down cellular waste, unwanted materials, and worn-out organelles, a process that helps maintain cellular health and function. The enzymes within lysosomes can degrade proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids, allowing for the recycling of valuable cellular components. This function is vital for cellular homeostasis, particularly in eukaryotic cells, where it helps in energy conservation and material recovery.

In comparison, the rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is primarily involved in protein synthesis and modification, not in degradation. Mitochondria are known as the powerhouses of the cell, producing energy in the form of ATP, while the Golgi apparatus is responsible for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins and lipids for secretion or use within the cell. Thus, lysosomes play a unique and essential role in cellular digestion and waste management.