Role of RILP in Autophagy

Autophagosomes are cellular organelles responsible for clearance of subcellular protein aggregates and defective organelles, and protect against the effects of starvation and other forms of cell stress. Autophagosomes also play critical roles in neurodegeneration and neurodevelopment. We have discovered that the protein RILP serves as a master controller of autophagosome formation, distribution, and clearance in neurons. We will determine the underlying mechanisms for these behaviors, which have important implications for understanding the causes and control of neurodegenerative, neurological, and other forms of disease.