The primary role of lysosomes in a cell is to function as digestive organelles. They contain hydrolytic enzymes that break down waste materials, cellular debris, and foreign pathogens, contributing to cellular homeostasis. By digesting macromolecules and recycling components, lysosomes play a key role in cellular maintenance and energy conservation. Additionally, they are involved in processes such as apoptosis (programmed cell death), which is critical for development and maintaining healthy tissue by eliminating damaged or unnecessary cells.