Cellular stress responses are mechanisms that cells activate when they encounter harmful conditions, such as extreme temperatures, toxins, or lack of nutrients. These responses help maintain cellular function and protect against damage by activating specific genes and proteins that promote repair and survival. One key aspect of cellular stress responses is the unfolded protein response (UPR), which helps manage misfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum. Additionally, cells may initiate autophagy, a process that removes damaged components, ensuring overall cellular health and resilience in challenging environments.