Understanding Autophagy: Your Body's Cellular Cleaning System

Autophagy is your body's cellular recycling system that breaks down and removes damaged components for longevity and health.

The Molecular Mechanism

Autophagy is regulated by AMPK and mTOR - two master metabolic switches that control cellular renewal.

AMPK Activation

When activated during fasting, AMPK triggers autophagy by phosphorylating ULK1 and inhibiting mTOR.

mTOR Inhibition

When mTOR is suppressed, autophagy proceeds to clean damaged proteins and organelles.

Practical Applications

• Fast 16-18 hours daily to activate AMPK
• Exercise to trigger autophagy
• Use compounds like spermidine and resveratrol
• Time meals to optimize the catabolic/anabolic cycle