Macro-autophagy Pathway (Autophagy)

Macro-autophagy (commonly referred to as autophagy) is a highly conserved catabolic pathway in eukaryotic cells that degrades and recycles cytoplasmic components, including proteins, organelles, and macromolecular complexes. This process is essential for cellular homeostasis, adaptation to stress (such as nutrient deprivation), development, immunity, and the removal of damaged or unnecessary cellular constituents. The process begins with the formation of a phagophore (also called an isolation membrane), which expands to engulf portions of the cytoplasm. The phagophore closes upon itself to form a double-membraned vesicle known as an autophagosome. The mature autophagosome then fuses with a lysosome (in animal cells) or vacuole (in yeast/plants), forming an autolysosome. Within this acidic compartment, lysosomal hydrolases degrade both the inner membrane of the autophagosome and its contents. The resulting monomeric products—such as amino acids and lipids—are exported back into the cytosol for reuse by the cell. Regulation occurs via nutrient-sensing kinases such as mTORC1 and AMPK. Dysregulation has been implicated in diseases such as neurodegeneration, cancer, infections, cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, among others.

Other names

AutophagyMacroautophagy

Modulation of autophagy initiation, vesicle formation, or lysosomal fusion/degradation