noun
- a cellular process in which a cell breaks down and digests its own damaged or unnecessary components to maintain health and survival
Usage: biology/medicine; often used in scientific and medical contexts
Examples
- Autophagy is a natural cellular cleanup mechanism that helps remove damaged organelles.
- During periods of starvation, cells increase autophagy to recycle nutrients.
- Researchers study autophagy to understand how it relates to aging and disease prevention.
- Defects in autophagy have been linked to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
- Exercise can stimulate autophagy, promoting cellular health and longevity.
- Cancer cells sometimes use autophagy to survive under stress conditions.