Lysosomes are specialized organelles found in cells that function as the digestive system. They contain enzymes that break down waste materials, cellular debris, and foreign substances. This process helps maintain cellular health by recycling components and preventing the accumulation of harmful materials. The enzymes within lysosomes are activated in an acidic environment, allowing them to effectively degrade proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates. When lysosomal function is impaired, it can lead to various diseases, including Tay-Sachs disease and Gaucher's disease, which are caused by the accumulation of undigested substances in cells.