Coincidence detection of RAB11A and PI(3)P by WIPI2 directs autophagosome formation

Abstract

Macroautophagy, hereafter referred to as autophagy, is a process that delivers cytoplasmic material to lysosomes for degradation. When nutrients are scarce, autophagy sustains cellular renovation by recycling cellular constituents (amino acids and fatty acids) for anabolic processes. In nutrient-replete conditions, autophagy maintains cellular homeostasis by selectively degrading disease-related ‘cargoes’ (pathogenic aggregate-prone proteins, damaged organelles, invasive bacteria).