Autophagy is a cellular process in which cells degrade and recycle their own components, such as proteins and organelles, in order to maintain cellular homeostasis. This process is crucial for cell survival, as it helps to remove damaged or unnecessary cellular material and provide nutrients during times of starvation or stress. Autophagy plays a key role in various physiological processes, including development, immune response, and aging. Dysregulation of autophagy has been linked to a wide range of diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and metabolic disorders. Researchers are actively studying the molecular mechanisms and regulation of autophagy, as well as developing pharmacological strategies to modulate autophagy for therapeutic purposes. Autophagy has emerged as a promising target for drug development, with potential applications in treating a diverse range of diseases.