The Role of Autophagy in Inflammatory Diseases: Challenges and Therapeutic Potential

Autophagy is a crucial cellular process involved in the degradation of cytoplasmic components through lysosomal machinery. It is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis and responding to various stressors. Autophagy has emerged as a key regulator of immune responses, particularly in the context of chronic inflammatory diseases, such as inflammatory bowel diseases and cancer. Increasing evidence highlights its dual role in both exacerbating and controlling inflammation, depending on the disease context. This review critically examines the molecular mechanisms of autophagy, its regulation within immune cells, and its complex involvement in chronic inflammation. We explore how dysregulated autophagic processes contribute to disease pathogenesis, with particular focus on inflammatory bowel disease and how these conditions increase cancer risk. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of autophagy modulation as a therapeutic strategy for these diseases. Current therapeutic approaches targeting autophagy are reviewed, alongside emerging strategies and their clinical implications. This comprehensive analysis underscores the importance of understanding the multifaceted roles of autophagy in immune regulation, with the aim of advancing therapeutic interventions for inflammatory and cancer-related conditions.