Indian scientists have identified a previously unrecognised cellular mechanism that plays a critical role in autophagy – the process by which cells remove damaged or unwanted components – a finding that could support the development of new therapies for Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and cancer.
The research reveals that the exocyst protein complex, long known for its role in transporting molecules within cells, is also essential for the formation of autophagosomes – specialised structures that encapsulate and remove cellular waste. This is reported by
IANS, a partner of TV BRICS.
According to the researchers, seven of the eight proteins that make up the exocyst complex are required for the correct assembly of autophagosomes. When this system is disrupted, cells fail to package waste effectively, leading to impaired cellular maintenance and the accumulation of damaged components.
Autophagy plays a complex role in human health. In neurodegenerative disorders, impaired waste clearance contributes to the progressive loss of neuronal function. In cancer, autophagy can suppress tumour formation in early stages by maintaining genetic stability, while in later stages some tumours exploit the process to support their own survival.
The scientists used yeast cells as a model system to map the mechanisms behind autophagosome formation, providing insights that are relevant to more complex organisms, including humans. The findings clarify how cellular recycling is regulated and why its disruption is associated with major diseases.
Researchers say the discovery improves understanding of how autophagy is controlled at a molecular level and could help guide future strategies to restore cellular balance in conditions where this process is defective.
Photo: Gorodenkoff /
iStock
Самые
актуальные новости стран БРИКС https://tvbrics.com