The cellular process of self-digestion and recycling of damaged organelles and proteins that is dynamically modulated by changes in nutrient availability and metabolic stress. This response represents the cell’s inherent capacity to adapt to energy deprivation by initiating a catabolic state for cellular maintenance and quality control. It is a fundamental homeostatic mechanism crucial for cellular resilience and longevity, directly impacting tissue health and systemic hormonal balance.
Origin
The concept stems from the Greek roots auto- meaning “self” and -phagy meaning “to eat,” describing the intrinsic cellular process of degradation and recycling. In a clinical context, the term “Adaptive” was appended to emphasize the physiological, regulated nature of this response in reaction to environmental and metabolic signals, contrasting it with pathological or uncontrolled cellular breakdown. This understanding is integral to modern endocrinology and gerontology, focusing on nutrient sensing pathways.
Mechanism
Nutrient deprivation, such as during fasting, leads to the suppression of the mTOR pathway and activation of the AMPK pathway, which are key energy sensors. This shift triggers the formation of autophagosomes, double-membraned vesicles that engulf targeted cellular components. The autophagosomes then fuse with lysosomes, where hydrolytic enzymes break down the contents into reusable macromolecules, thus providing fuel and building blocks to sustain cellular function and hormonal production under stress.
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