Uncovering a Mechanism for Healthy Aging of Cells.

Researchers have discovered a new mechanism that initiates the targeted degradation of defective proteins, which can accumulate to form protein clumps and trigger neurodegenerative diseases. The protein GCN1 plays a crucial role in this process, acting like a firefighter to stabilize and secure the site of ribosome collisions and call for the removal of defective proteins. The malfunction of GCN1 can shorten the life expectancy of organisms and promote neurodegenerative diseases. The study provides insights into how to reduce the age-related accumulation of defective proteins and prevent neurodegenerative diseases.