Microbody is a term used to describe a small, membrane-bound organelle found in cells. Synonyms for microbody include peroxisome, glyoxysome, and lysosome. Peroxisomes are microbodies that contain enzymes involved in the breakdown of fatty acids and the detoxification of harmful compounds. Glyoxysomes are microbodies found in plant cells that are involved in lipid metabolism. Lysosomes are similar to microbodies but contain enzymes that break down macromolecules such as proteins, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids. Microbodies play an important role in the regulation of cell metabolism and are essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis.