Autophagy modulation as a potential therapeutic target for diverse diseases

David C. Rubinsztein, Patrice Codogno, Beth Levine

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

1209 Scopus citations

Abstract

Autophagy is an essential, conserved lysosomal degradation pathway that controls the quality of the cytoplasm by eliminating protein aggregates and damaged organelles. It begins when double-membraned autophagosomes engulf portions of the cytoplasm, which is followed by fusion of these vesicles with lysosomes and degradation of the autophagic contents. In addition to its vital homeostatic role, this degradation pathway is involved in various human disorders, including metabolic conditions, neurodegenerative diseases, cancers and infectious diseases. This article provides an overview of the mechanisms and regulation of autophagy, the role of this pathway in disease and strategies for therapeutic modulation.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)709-730
Number of pages22
JournalNature Reviews Drug Discovery
Volume11
Issue number9
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 2012

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pharmacology
  • Drug Discovery

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