Question

In animal cells, the breakdown of very long chain fatty acids through β-oxidation is conducted by which of the following organelles?

• A. Ribosome
• B. Peroxisome
• C. Mitochondria
• D. Golgi apparatus

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Peroxisome

Peroxisomes: Key Organelles for Fatty Acid Metabolism

Role in Beta-Oxidation

• Peroxisomes are specialized microbodies found in eukaryotic cells, including animal cells.

• They play a crucial role in the breakdown of fatty acids, particularly very long-chain fatty acids (VLCFAs), medium-chain fatty acids, and branched-chain fatty acids.

• This breakdown process is known as beta-oxidation, which generates acetyl-CoA.

• Unlike mitochondria, peroxisomes can initiate beta-oxidation on fatty acids with double bonds in specific positions and can break down fatty acids longer than 20 carbons.

Other Functions of Peroxisomes

• Detoxification: Peroxisomes are involved in detoxifying harmful substances, including alcohol and certain drugs.

• Hydrogen Peroxide Metabolism: They contain enzymes like catalase, which breaks down the toxic hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) produced during oxidation reactions into water and oxygen.

• Synthesis of Bile Acids: In the liver, peroxisomes participate in the synthesis of bile acids.

• Synthesis of Plasmalogens: They are involved in the synthesis of plasmalogens, a class of ether phospholipids crucial for cell membrane structure, especially in myelin sheaths of nerve cells.