Macroautophagy is a process that helps cells get rid of unwanted or damaged material, such as proteins, whole microbes and damaged organelles (cellular ‘organs’). This helps the cell stay healthy and function well. As we get older, macroautophagy becomes less effective and the cell accumulates more waste. This can affect how the cell works and cause problems for our health. Scientists think that macroautophagy is important for aging and they are studying how it works and how to improve it.