Autophagy

Definition

Autophagy is a cellular process where cells degrade and recycle their own components to maintain homeostasis or respond to stress. It involves the formation of membranes around targeted cellular materials, which are then delivered to lysosomes for breakdown.

Related terms

Lysosome: An organelle containing digestive enzymes that degrade materials ingested by the cell as well as damaged or obsolete cellular components.

Homeostasis:

The ability of a cell or organism to maintain internal equilibrium by adjusting its physiological processes.

Cellular stress: A state in which cells experience conditions that disrupt their homeostasis, often leading to responses such as autophagy to restore balance