Autophagy, Aging, and Longevity.

Autophagy is a conserved process that degrades intracellular components through lysosomes, thereby maintaining energy homeostasis and renewal of organelles. Mounting evidence indicates that autophagy plays a key role in aging and aging-related diseases. Enhanced autophagy can delay aging and prolong life span. The absence of autophagy leads to the accumulation of mutant and misfolded proteins in the cell, which is the basis for the emergence and development of neurodegenerative diseases and other aging-related diseases. It will be of importance to develop approaches to extend the lifespan and improve the health of elderly individuals through the modulation of autophagy.