One size does not fit all: Lysosomes exist in biochemically and functionally distinct states

Abstract

Lysosome heterogeneity at the intracellular level is well documented and related to many factors. The positioning of a lysosome within the cell is not random; it is strategic for lysosomal function. For example, perinuclear lysosomes are often involved in degradation, whereas peripheral lysosomes are involved in plasma membrane repair The size of a lysosome can also differ, influenced by factors such as cellular metabolic needs or external stimuli Shape is important, and tubular lysosomes have been implicated in a wide range of cellular functions. Adding to this complexity, proteolytic activity and ion concentration have crucial roles in shaping lysosome heterogeneity Biochemical differences in individual lysosomes will also affect the outcomes after damage and leakage of contents. In fact, there is compelling evidence that not all lysosomes undergo damage and/or repair, which suggests the presence of an intrinsic factor that impacts membrane stability The diversity of lysosome biochemical properties indicates a range of functions beyond degradation, from antigen presentation to cell death regulation [1], and poses a critical challenge: can we correlate these distinct states with specific functions at the individual lysosome level?

Topics & Concepts