`autophagy` Related Article Results

Autophagy (from Greek auto = self, phagein = to eat) literally means "self-eating". This biological process is an evolutionarily conserved mechanism that enables cells to degrade and recycle their own components. It refers to the breakdown of damaged or dysfunctional organelles and proteins by lysosomal enzymes and the subsequent reuse of their building blocks.This intracellular process is triggered by various conditions such as physiological stress, starvation, infection and cellular aging. The

Lysosomes are small, membrane-bound organelles found in eukaryotic (nucleated) cells. These organelles contain approximately 60 different digestive enzymes that break down large molecules such as proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates. The internal environment of the lysosome is highly acidic (approximately pH 4.5–5) to facilitate the activity of these enzymes.The integrity of the lysosomal membrane is crucial to prevent the enzymes from damaging the surrounding cell. The inner surface of the membr