The ubiquitin E2 enzyme UBE2QL1 mediates lysophagy.

Although damaged lysosomes with ruptured membranes can be repaired, these dangerous organelles are also selectively eliminated by autophagic degradation termed lysophagy. This process is initiated by ubiquitination of lysosomal proteins. In this issue of EMBO Reports, Koerver et al [1] identify the E2 enzyme UBE2QL1 that catalyzes ubiquitination of damaged lysosomes. Without this enzyme, the clearance of ruptured lysosomes is compromised not only upon lysosomal damage but also under normal conditions, revealing its adaptive and constitutive functions.