autophagy

American  

[aw-tah-fuhj-ee] / ɔˈtɑ fədʒ i /

noun

1. Cell Biology. the process by which a cell breaks down and reabsorbs parts of itself using enzymes it generates.

2. the act or process of consuming or digesting oneself.

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Other Word Forms

• autophagic adjective
• non-autophagic adjective

Example Sentences

The researchers connected SUPT5H to three key blood cell programs: hemoglobin production, cell cycle, and autophagy.

From Science Daily

"It activates hemoglobin synthesis, slows down the cell cycle, and slows down autophagy, which together have a synergistic effect."

From Science Daily

This behavior supports a routine cellular cleanup process known as autophagy.

From Science Daily

In autophagy, damaged or unnecessary proteins are enclosed in small membrane-bound vesicles and then broken down safely by enzymes, effectively recycling cellular components.

From Science Daily

"Autophagy is more effective at handling larger protein clumps," says study leader Luo.

From Science Daily