Autophagy in cellular metabolism and cancer
Xuejun Jiang, … , Michael Overholtzer, Craig B. Thompson
Xuejun Jiang, … , Michael Overholtzer, Craig B. Thompson
Published January 2, 2015
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2015;125(1):47-54. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI73942.
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Autophagy in cellular metabolism and cancer

Abstract

Autophagy is a catabolic process mediated by incorporation of cellular material into cytosolic membrane vesicles for lysosomal degradation. It is crucial for maintaining cell viability and homeostasis in response to numerous stressful conditions. In this Review, the role of autophagy in both normal biology and disease is discussed. Emphasis is given to the interplay of autophagy with nutrient signaling through the ULK1 autophagy pre-initiation complex. Furthermore, related cellular processes utilizing components of the canonical autophagy pathway are discussed due to their potential roles in nutrient scavenging. Finally, the role of autophagy in cancer and its potential as a cancer therapeutic target are considered.

Authors

Xuejun Jiang, Michael Overholtzer, Craig B. Thompson

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Figure 3

LC3 lipidation in non-autophagic processes.

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LC3 lipidation in non-autophagic processes. The phagocytosis of apoptoti...
The phagocytosis of apoptotic bodies and macropinocytic uptake of serum albumin are shown as examples of extracellular substrates that may be degraded in an autophagy protein–dependent manner. Shaded box at the right lists multiple non-autophagic processes utilizing LC3 lipidation, as well as their cargos and biological functions. Their potential common roles in nutrient scavenging are emphasized.