logo
AAT Bioquest

What are the differences between lysosomes and endosomes?

Posted October 2, 2023


Answer

Lysosomes

  • Lysosomes are organelles that contain about 40 different types of degradative hydrolytic enzymes including phosphatases, lipases, nucleases, glycosidases, proteases, phospholipases, and sulfatases.
  • Lysosomes fuse with endosomes allowing degradative lysosomal enzymes to assist in the digestion of materials inside the endosome. 
  • 3 types of lysosomes: endolysosome, phagolysosome, and autophagolysosome.

Endosomes:

  • Endosomes are vesicles that enclose solid extracellular materials and pathogens internalized during endocytosis. 
  • In addition to the internalized material, endosomes also contain nutrients. 
  • Endosomes store internalized materials until they are completely digested.
  • Their primary function involves internal sorting. 
  • 3 types: early endosome, late endosome, and recycling endosome.
Additional resources

Endosomes, lysosomes, and the role of endosomal and lysosomal biogenesis in cancer development

We use cookies to enhance your browser experience and analyze our traffic. By clicking "Accept All", you consent to our use of cookies.

Accept All
Customize
Reject All