Regulation and function of uncoordinated-51 like kinase proteins

The Atg1/ULK1 (uncoordinated-51 like kinase 1) protein complex plays an essential role regulating autophagy in mammalian cells. As autophagy is implicated in normal cellular homeostasis and multiple diseases, better mechanistic insight drives development of novel therapeutic approaches. RECENT ADVANCES: Multiple independent laboratories have contributed important new insights into the ULK-signalling pathway. ULK1/2 function is regulated by mTOR complex 1 and AMPK through a network of phosphorylation events. ULK signalling controls autophagosome formation in conjunction with other key regulatory factors such as Beclin1 and Atg9.