Which process involves lysosomes decomposing damaged organelles to reuse their organic monomers?

The process that involves lysosomes decomposing damaged organelles to reuse their organic monomers is autophagy. In autophagy, the cell forms a double-membrane structure called an autophagosome, which engulfs the damaged or unnecessary organelles. This autophagosome then fuses with a lysosome, where the enzymes within the lysosome break down the contents into their basic building blocks, such as amino acids and fatty acids. These monomers can subsequently be recycled and repurposed by the cell for various metabolic processes, contributing to cellular maintenance and homeostasis.

Phagocytosis involves the engulfing of large particles or microorganisms, whereas pinocytosis deals with the uptake of fluids and small solutes. Endocytosis is a broader term that encompasses different forms of cellular uptake, including both phagocytosis and pinocytosis, but does not specifically refer to the recycling of damaged organelles. Thus, it is autophagy that specifically describes the process in question.