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Autophagy: mechanisms, roles in human diseases, and therapeutic perspectives

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Autophagy, a conserved intracellular degradation and recycling process, maintains cellular homeostasis by eliminating damaged organelles, misfolded proteins, and invading pathogens. Dysregulation of autophagy either excessive or insufficient contributes to the pathogenesis of numerous human diseases, spanning the respiratory, locomotor, circulatory, digestive, urinary, and nervous systems, as well as cancer. This Mini Review summarizes the core mechanisms and classification of autophagy, highlights its dual roles in various pathological conditions, discusses existing controversies and research gaps, and outlines potential future directions for therapeutic targeting. A concise overview of key findings provides readers with an updated understanding of autophagy's multifaceted functions in disease development and treatment.

Source: Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology

DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2026.1776289

Authors: Jiazhen He, Teng Qi

Institutions: Northwest University, Chinese University of Hong Kong

Language: English

Topic: Autophagy in Disease and Therapy

Subfield: Epidemiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801