How cells recycle proteins and organelles, and how scientists are testing ways to restore the process.
Autophagy and lysosomal function help recycle damaged cellular material. This field follows the underlying experiments and drug programmes, including early human safety studies.
Retro Biosciences
Retro Biosciences is testing oral RTR242 in an Australian Phase 1 safety trial. The compound is intended to restore lysosomal acidity; no human efficacy results have been published.
A 2026 study linked declining chaperone-mediated autophagy to weaker macrophage clearance of senescent cells. It also tested an experimental activator in aged mice and a lung-fibrosis model.
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