What Functions do Cytoplasmic Inclusion Bodies Serve?
The functions of cytoplasmic inclusion bodies can vary depending on their type and cellular context. Glycogen granules serve as a readily accessible energy reserve, while lipid droplets store energy in the form of fats. Pigment granules like melanin protect cells from UV radiation, and lipofuscin granules are considered markers of oxidative stress and cellular aging. Crystalline inclusions often have less clearly defined roles but can be involved in cellular storage or metabolism.
