Introduction
- Natural, regulated mechanism of the cell.
- Orderly degradation and recycling of cellular components.
- Allows for rebuilding of the structures that have been destroyed.
- Generally an adaptive response to stress, promoting survival (and avoiding cell death).
- In some cases, can promote cell death and morbidity.
- Triggered by absence of cell energy.
- Absence, of nutrients, oxygen, growth factors.
Macro-autophagy
- Happens in the cytoplasm of the cell.
- Damaged parts are isolated and captured in autophagosomes (the “mouth”).
- Autophagosomes fuse with lysosomes (the “stomach”).
- Contents are degraded and recycled.
Targeted tool against ageing.
- When autophagy is triggered, has a preference for damaged cells.
- Also triggers regeneration of damaged parts (such as mitochondria).
- Explains its role as a device against ageing.