ATG5

ATG5 is a protein that plays a crucial role in a process called autophagy, which is how cells clean up and recycle their internal components. Think of autophagy as the cell’s way of maintaining itself by removing damaged parts and recycling materials for energy or building new structures. ATG5 helps form specialized structures called autophagosomes that envelop debris to be broken down. This process is vital for cell health, survival during stress, and preventing diseases like cancer and neurodegeneration. In essence, ATG5 acts as a key facilitator in the cell’s internal housekeeping system.