Do animal cells have Vacuoles?

An animal cell contains multiple small vacuoles, each performing specific functions. These vacuoles are formed when several vesicles fuse together and are found throughout the cytoplasm, but never inside the nucleus or the cell wall. Unlike plant cells, animal cell vacuoles are usually smaller in size but more numerous, scattered across the cell. In some animal cells, vacuoles may even be absent.

Functions of Vacuoles in Animal Cells

1. Waste Removal: Vacuoles move around the cytoplasm to collect and eliminate cellular waste.
2. Exocytosis & Endocytosis: They play a crucial role in these processes, helping in both storage and transport of materials.
3. Defense Against Pathogens:
   • When the cell membrane invaginates to engulf foreign particles (like bacteria), a vacuole is formed.
   • This vacuole later fuses with lysosomes, which release enzymes (lysozymes) to break down and destroy harmful substances.
4. Storage: They serve as temporary storage compartments for nutrients, waste products, or materials awaiting breakdown.