Peroxisomes: simple in function but complex in maintenance

Peroxisomes compartmentalize part of the anabolic and catabolic pathways an d reactions of the cell. Dysfunction of a single peroxisomal enzyme or loss of the whole peroxisomal compartment causes sporadic, but serious,, human diseases. Genetic studies in various yeasts have identified PEX genes, whic h are required for the maintenance of complete peroxisomes. Mutations in PE X genes have proved to be the molecular cause of several human diseases, pa rticularly those involving loss of organelles. Peroxisomes have several pro perties that distinguish them from other organelles, including the import o f folded proteins from the cytosol by an unknown mechanism. By discussing r ecent highlights from the field of peroxisome research, we aim to share wit h the general readership our excitement as well as the many mysteries still surrounding peroxisome function and maintenance.