Vacuolar

Vacuolar is a term used in cell biology to refer to the vacuole, a type of organelle found in a variety of different cells, with the function varying depending on the type of cell. In general, vacuoles are essentially enclosed compartments which are filled with water containing inorganic and organic molecules including enzymes in solution, though in certain cases they may contain solids which have been engulfed.

Structure

Vacuoles are large, membrane-bound structures within cells. They are enclosed by a lipid bilayer membrane, known as the tonoplast. The tonoplast maintains the vacuole's internal pH and turgor pressure.

Function

The primary role of vacuoles is to isolate harmful materials within the cell. The vacuole has a diverse array of functions depending on the type of cell in which it is present. In general, the functions of the vacuole include:

• Containing waste products
• Containing water in plant cells
• Maintaining acid-base balance
• Containing small molecules
• Exporting products into the cell wall in plant cells
• Helping in the growth of the cell by absorbing water (plant cells)

In different organisms

Vacuoles perform different functions in different organisms. In plants, they are mainly involved in maintaining the shape and structure of the cell, and in storing water and nutrients. In fungi, vacuoles are important for storing ions, preserving the cell's pH balance, and for breaking down macromolecules. In animals, vacuoles are smaller and are involved in a variety of roles, including the transport of proteins and lipids, and the degradation of waste products.

See also

• Cell (biology)
• Organelle
• Lysosome
• Endomembrane system
• Tonoplast
• Turgor pressure

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