Autophagy is regulated by a complex network of signaling pathways. The mTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin) pathway is a key negative regulator of autophagy. When nutrients are abundant, mTOR is active and inhibits autophagy. Conversely, under nutrient-poor conditions, mTOR activity is suppressed, leading to the initiation of autophagy. Another important regulator is the AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) pathway, which activates autophagy in response to low energy levels.
