Autophagy is a highly conserved process through the evolution of species, from eukaryotic microorganisms to humans. Bulky cytoplasmic contents, organisms (bacteria, viruses) and soluble proteins are degraded by autophagy and reused for the synthesis of new molecules. This process is generally induced by a change of environmental conditions, such as nutrient deprivation, oxidative stress and ultraviolet radiation. However, it has also been associated with normal procedures like development, differentiation and defence against pathogens. In spite of offering protection to cells, autophagy may also contribute to cell damage. Evangelia Kesidou and colleagues from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece collected data on molecular mechanisms of autophagy, and the role of autophagic process in acute and chronic neurode-generation. Their review article, published in the Neural Regeneration Research (Vol. 8, No. 24, 2013), provides an update of the role of autophagic process in representative chronic and acute neurodegenerative disorders.
This image shows an overview and distinct steps of autophagy.
(Photo Credit: Neural Regeneration Research)
Source: Neural Regeneration Research