Who discovered glyoxysomes?

Glyoxysomes were discovered by Harry Beevers and Hans Krebs in 1960.

They are specialized microbodies found in plant cells, especially in germinating fatty seeds. Glyoxysomes contain enzymes of the glyoxylate cycle, which converts fats into sugars to provide energy for seedling growth before photosynthesis begins.

Main functions

• Carry out β-oxidation of fatty acids.
• Convert acetyl-CoA into succinate via the glyoxylate cycle.
• Provide carbohydrates needed for early plant growth.

These organelles show how plants can switch energy sources efficiently during germination. Their discovery helped scientists understand energy metabolism in plants more clearly.