UPR (Unfolded Protein Response)

The Unfolded Protein Response (UPR) is a cellular process that helps cells manage stress in the endoplasmic reticulum, a cell structure responsible for protein folding. When too many proteins are misfolded or unfolded, the UPR activates to restore balance by reducing protein production, increasing the clearing of defective proteins, and boosting the cell’s ability to fold proteins correctly. If stress persists, UPR can also trigger cell repair mechanisms or programmed cell death. Essentially, UPR acts as a quality control system, protecting cells from damage caused by protein mismanagement.