Molecular mechanisms of autophagy and its role in cancer development

Abstract

Autophagy is an evolutionary process preserved in eukaryotes, which removes harmful components and maintains cell homeostasis in response to a variety of extracellular stimuli. It is involved in both physiological and pathological conditions, including cancer. The role of autophagy in the treatment of cancer is described as a “double-edged sword”, which reflects its involvement in tumor suppression, survival and subsequent proliferation of tumor cells. Recent advances are useful for planning appropriate adjustments to inhibit or promote autophagy in order to obtain therapeutic efficacy in cancer patients. The objectives of this review are to clarify the role of autophagy in cancer and to highlight the need for more research in the field.

Keywords

• Autophagy
• Cancer
• Tumorigenesis
• Proliferation