Alternative cellular disposal pathway-related health issues: A review

Abstract

Keeping cells in a state of balance and optimal function requires proper cellular waste management. Autophagy and the (ubiquitin-proteasome system) UPS, two well-established routes, have been the subject of substantial research. A growing body of evidence suggests that alternate cellular disposal pathways may play a role in several health problems. This review delves into the inner workings of these alternate routes and how they relate to health and illness. Microautophagy, chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA), and production of extracellular vesicles (EVs) are our main areas of interest. Our discussion centres on their role in neurodegenerative illnesses, cancer, and metabolic disorders, with an emphasis on possible treatments for these conditions. Novel insights into disease causes and possible treatments can be gained by understanding these pathways. Microautophagy entails direct lysosomal engulfment of cellular material, CMA selectively targets cytosolic proteins for lysosomal degradation, while EV secretion controls waste by exporting it out of the cell. Dysfunction in these pathways can result in pathological diseases, as they are essential for cellular integrity maintenance. This study highlights the significance of potential alternative disposal systems in cellular health and disease management by outlining their functions in different diseases and investigating new treatments that aim to block these pathways.