Understanding the importance and necessity of the role of autophagy in health and disease is vital for the studies of cancer, aging, neurodegeneration, immunology, and infectious diseases. Comprehensive and up-to-date, this book offers a valuable guide to these cellular processes whilst inciting researchers to explore their potentially important connections. Volume 7 provides coverage of the latest developments in autophagosome biogenesis and regulation; the role of autophagy in protein quality control; and the role of autophagy in apoptosis. Attention is given to autophagy in the cardiovascular system, with particular insights into the role of autophagy in atherosclerosis and the distinctive behavior of autophagy in the sinoatrial node. Cutting-edge findings in the relationships between autophagy and lifestyle are explored with the regulation of macroautophagy in response to exercise, as well as the promotion of carcinogenesis via autophagy in response to cigarette smoking. Volume 7 highlights the importance of understanding the role of autophagy in context, as the complexity of autophagic function becomes increasingly clear. Autophagy may be differentially regulated, and may perform distinctive cell-specific functions even within a single tissue. The overall significance of autophagy thus cannot be oversimplified, and must be explored with granular detail of the specific role, function, and area of impact. This book is an asset to newcomers as a concise overview of the complex significance of autophagy, while serving as an excellent reference for more experienced scientists and clinicians looking to update their knowledge. Volumes in the Series Volume 1: Molecular Mechanisms. Elucidates