A lysosome is a small, membrane-bound organelle found in the cells of many living organisms. It contains digestive enzymes that break down waste materials, cellular debris, and foreign invaders like bacteria. By doing this, lysosomes help maintain the cell's health and recycle components for reuse. These organelles are often referred to as the cell's "recycling center." When a cell is damaged or no longer needed, lysosomes can digest it through a process called autophagy. This function is crucial for cellular maintenance and plays a role in various biological processes, including immune response and cellular metabolism.