Which organelle is primarily responsible for detoxifying harmful substances in the cell?

Peroxisomes are small, membrane-bound organelles that play a critical role in the detoxification of harmful substances within the cell. They contain enzymes that catalyze reactions involving hydrogen peroxide and other reactive oxygen species, transforming these potentially toxic compounds into less harmful molecules. This is essential for maintaining cellular health, as excessive levels of reactive oxygen species can lead to oxidative stress and damage cellular components.

In addition to detoxifying substances, peroxisomes are also involved in the metabolism of fatty acids and the synthesis of certain lipids. Their ability to neutralize toxic byproducts makes them vital for the overall functioning of the cell, particularly in liver cells where detoxification processes are especially prevalent. Their specialized enzymes specifically target and break down toxins, distinguishing them from other organelles like lysosomes, which primarily function in breaking down macromolecules and recycling cellular debris, and ribosomes, which are crucial for protein synthesis. The nucleus serves as the control center for gene expression and cell regulation but does not engage in detoxification processes.