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.