Proteostasis control by the unfolded protein response

Stress induced by accumulation of misfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum is observed in many physiological and pathological conditions. To cope with endoplasmic reticulum stress, cells activate the unfolded protein response, a dynamic signalling network that orchestrates the recovery of homeostasis or triggers apoptosis, depending on the level of damage. Here we provide an overview of recent insights into the mechanisms that cells employ to maintain proteostasis and how the unfolded protein response determines cell fate under endoplasmic reticulum stress.