autofagózis

Autofagózis, derived from Greek words meaning "self-eating," is a fundamental cellular process observed in eukaryotes. It is a highly regulated mechanism by which cells degrade and recycle their own damaged or unnecessary components. This process is crucial for cellular homeostasis, allowing cells to survive stressful conditions such as nutrient deprivation, and to remove toxic aggregates or malfunctioning organelles.

The process typically begins with the formation of a double-membraned vesicle called an autophagosome. This vesicle engulfs cytoplasmic material, including proteins, lipids, and organelles, that are targeted for degradation. Once formed, the autophagosome fuses with a lysosome, a cellular organelle containing hydrolytic enzymes. Within the fused structure, known as an autolysosome, the engulfed material is broken down into its basic molecular constituents. These components are then released back into the cytoplasm to be reused by the cell.

Autofagózis plays a vital role in various physiological processes, including development, immunity, and aging. Dysregulation of autofagózis has been implicated in a range of diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, and infectious diseases. Understanding the intricate mechanisms of autofagózis holds significant potential for therapeutic interventions aimed at treating these conditions.