Polymorphic Lysosomes
Poly = many, morphic = forms → having many forms
Lysosomes are polymorphic because they exist in several forms within the same cell, depending on their function:
- Primary lysosome: Inactive enzymes
- Secondary lysosome: Active digestion
- Residual body: Waste-filled
- Autophagic vacuole: Self-organelle digestion
Example: Macrophages show all types simultaneously.
Pleomorphic Lysosomes
Pleo = varied, morphic = forms → variable shapes
Lysosome shape and size differ based on activity, type of cell, or digestive load.
- Granular in neutrophils (granulocytes)
- Irregular in hepatocytes
- Large or tubular in macrophages
Key: Shape variability = pleomorphism.
Difference Table: Polymorphic vs Pleomorphic
| Term | Meaning | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Polymorphic | Many forms based on function/stage | Within one cell |
| Pleomorphic | Variable shapes and sizes | Across or within cells |
Pleomorphic Golgi Apparatus
- Secretory cells: Large stacks
- Neurons: Fragmented Golgi
- Plant cells: Multiple scattered stacks
- Mitosis: Vesiculated Golgi
- Stress: Swollen or misoriented
Key: Golgi shape changes to suit function.
“FROM NCERT-The Golgi cisternae (in animals) are concentrically arranged near the nucleus.”
Dictyosome (Plant Golgi)
- Small, multiple stacks in plant cells
- Variable shape and number depending on activity
- Produce pectin & hemicellulose for the cell wall
Key: Dictyosome is a pleomorphic version of Golgi in plants.