Emerging connections between RNA and autophagy.

Area of Science:

• Cell Biology
• Molecular Biology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Macroautophagy/autophagy is crucial for cellular homeostasis and survival.
• Recent research highlights significant links between RNA biology and autophagy.
• While protein, lipid, and carbohydrate degradation are well-studied, RNA degradation via autophagy is increasingly recognized.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evidence for RNA catabolism through autophagy across different species.
• To explore the molecular mechanisms and biological significance of RNA degradation by autophagy.
• To discuss the role of RNA and RNA-binding proteins as autophagy regulators and their implications in disease.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on RNA and autophagy.
• Analysis of molecular mechanisms involved in RNA recruitment and degradation by autophagy.
• Examination of the biological importance in physiological and pathological conditions.

Main Results:

• Accumulating data shows specific recruitment of various RNAs and ribonucleoprotein complexes to phagophores for lysosomal degradation.
• Numerous novel autophagy regulators with RNA-related functions have been identified.
• RNA and associated proteins function not only as cargo but also as regulators of autophagy.

Conclusions:

• RNA catabolism via autophagy is a conserved process with significant biological roles in normal physiology, stress, and disease.
• RNA-binding proteins and noncoding RNAs are emerging as key regulators of core autophagy processes.
• Dysregulation of RNA-protein interactions in autophagy contributes to pathologies, particularly neurodegenerative diseases.