# Explain how the structural features of the peroxisome are suited to its function in the detoxification of hydrogen peroxide and the oxidation of fatty acids.

> IB DP Biology Higher Level (2023 syllabus) — B2.2 Organelles and compartmentalisation · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Peroxisomes are bounded by a single membrane that contains the toxic contents / prevents hydrogen peroxide from leaking into the cytosol.
2. Peroxisomes contain catalase, which breaks down hydrogen peroxide to water and oxygen, detoxifying the cell.
3. Peroxisomes contain oxidase enzymes that carry out beta-oxidation of fatty acids, breaking them down into acetyl-CoA / generating hydrogen peroxide as a by-product of this process.
4. Compartmentalisation within the peroxisome ensures that reactive oxygen species / toxic intermediates are isolated from sensitive cell components such as DNA or other organelles, protecting cellular integrity.

## Key terms

- [peroxisome](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/peroxisome)
- [hydrogen peroxide](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/hydrogen-peroxide)

## Related

- [Revision notes for IB DP Biology Higher Level (2023 syllabus)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-the-structural-features-of-314f679e) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.