What organelle uses hydrolytic enzymes for digestion and is found only in animal cells?

Lysosomes are specialized organelles that contain hydrolytic enzymes responsible for breaking down waste materials and cellular debris. They play a crucial role in cellular digestion and are involved in processes like autophagy, where the cell reuses its components. The enzymes within lysosomes can degrade proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids, allowing for the recycling of cellular components, which is vital for maintaining cellular health.

Lysosomes are unique to animal cells and are not found in plant cells, which instead utilize a different structure known as the vacuole for similar functions, albeit with some variations in purpose and mechanism. This distinction highlights the specialized nature of lysosomes in animal cell biology.