HealthAugust 1, 2026

autophagy

aw-TAH-fuh-jee

Definition

A biological process in which cells degrade and recycle their own damaged or unnecessary components to maintain cellular health.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'autos' (self) and 'phagein' (to eat), the term literally describes the process of a cell 'eating itself' for internal maintenance.

In the news

In this article, autophagy is cited as a cellular recycling process stimulated by restricting certain amino acids, which helps clear out damaged proteins and organelles to promote healthier aging.

Eating less protein may support healthier aging

Read the full article ↗

Bioengineer.org

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