Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam 2026 – The All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

The primary function of lysosomes within a cell is digestion and waste removal. Lysosomes are membrane-bound organelles that contain enzymes capable of breaking down various macromolecules, including proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids. This process is essential for cellular maintenance, as lysosomes help to recycle cellular components and remove damaged organelles and unneeded materials.

By digesting cellular debris, lysosomes play a crucial role in the body's defense mechanisms, as they can also degrade pathogens that have been engulfed by immune cells. This makes them essential not only for cellular health but also for overall organismal homeostasis. Thus, their key role in digestion and waste management defines their primary function in the cell.