Which of the following statements about lysosomes is true?

Lysosomes are membrane-bound organelles found in the cytoplasm of animal cells that play a crucial role in cellular maintenance and recycling. They contain a variety of hydrolytic enzymes necessary for breaking down biomolecules such as proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids. This digestion process allows lysosomes to effectively manage waste materials and cellular debris, making them essential for cellular homeostasis. Through the degradation of unwanted materials, lysosomes contribute to the overall health and functioning of the cell.

In contrast, protein synthesis is primarily the role of ribosomes, not lysosomes. Cellular respiration is carried out mainly in the mitochondria, where ATP is produced, rather than in lysosomes. Additionally, lysosomes do not contain DNA or RNA; instead, these nucleic acids are typically found in the nucleus and mitochondria, where they serve essential roles in genetic information storage and processing. Therefore, the statement regarding lysosomes digesting waste and cellular debris accurately reflects their primary function within the cell.