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." They play a crucial role in processes such as autophagy, where damaged organelles are degraded and removed. Lysosomes are essential for proper cellular function and contribute to overall cellular homeostasis.