How do peroxisomes work

Peroxisomes perform oxidative metabolic reactions by housing enzymes that catalyze the breakdown of fatty acids and detoxification of harmful substances. Fatty acids undergo beta-oxidation within peroxisomes, producing acetyl-CoA and hydrogen peroxide as a byproduct. Catalase enzymes then rapidly convert hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, preventing oxidative damage. Peroxisomes also participate in the biosynthesis of plasmalogens and bile acids, thus integrating multiple metabolic pathways crucial for cell survival and function.