The primary function of lysosomal hydrolases is to break down macromolecules into their monomeric units, which can then be recycled by the cell. For example, proteases degrade proteins into amino acids, while glycosidases break down complex carbohydrates into simple sugars. These reactions are facilitated by the catalytic activity of the hydrolases, which lower the activation energy of the hydrolysis reactions, making them proceed more rapidly.
