Autophagy: A Major Regulatory Factor in Glucose Metabolism

Autophagy is a conserved degradative process which facilitates the degradation of excessive or damaged proteins and organelles in lysosomes. It plays a crucial role in maintaining cellular homeostasis by liberating glucose and other nutrients, like amino acids and fatty acids, to support cellular functions during stress conditions and starvation. Glucose, an important carbohydrate in the human body sustains cellular life. Recent studies have highlighted the role of autophagy in glucose metabolism. In this review, we summarize the role of autophagy in glycogen metabolism, glycolysis, and gluconeogenesis. We also explore the relationship between autophagy and factors involved in glucose metabolism, such as ATP and calcium. Additionally, we discuss the effects of autophagy on diseases associated with abnormal glucose metabolism, including diabetes and insulin resistance (IR). Furthermore, we will provide an overview of potential medications that can improve glucose metabolism by regulating autophagy. Thus, as the main regulator, autophagy is promising as a therapeutic target for addressing abnormal glucose metabolism-related diseases.