Definition: Autophagy is a conserved cellular process that degrades and recycles damaged organelles, misfolded proteins, and other cellular components via lysosomal pathways, maintaining cellular homeostasis.
Research overview: Research into autophagy explores the mechanisms of autophagosome formation, the regulation of autophagy by nutrient-sensing pathways such as mTOR and AMPK, and the role of autophagy in stress responses, aging, and disease. Scientists study how modulation of autophagy affects cell survival, inflammation, metabolism, and neurodegeneration.
Applications in research:
- Investigating the role of autophagy in neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and metabolic disorders
- Studying autophagy modulation by peptides and small molecules in vitro
- Exploring the interplay between autophagy, apoptosis, and mitochondrial quality control
- Modelling how nutrient deprivation, exercise, or caloric restriction triggers autophagic pathways
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