Autophagy Counterbalances Endoplasmic Reticulum Expansion during the Unfolded Protein Response
2006
How Cells Manage Unfolded Proteins
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Sebastián Bernales, Kent McDonald, Peter Walter
Hypothesis
Does autophagy play a role in managing the unfolded protein response in yeast cells?
Conclusion
The study reveals that autophagy helps cells manage excess endoplasmic reticulum during stress from misfolded proteins.
Supporting Evidence
- The study found that autophagy helps manage the endoplasmic reticulum during stress from misfolded proteins.
- Electron microscopy revealed a massive expansion of the ER in treated yeast cells.
- The authors identified a new type of structure called ER-containing autophagosomes (ERAs) that help regulate ER size.
Takeaway
When cells have too many misfolded proteins, they can use a process called autophagy to help clean up and keep everything working smoothly.
Methodology
The authors chemically induced the unfolded protein response in yeast cells and used electron microscopy to analyze changes in ER structure.
Participant Demographics
Yeast cells were used as the model organism.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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