Fig. 2
From: Is targeting autophagy mechanism in cancer a good approach? The possible double-edge sword effect
The role of autophagy in cancer progression. Basal autophagy plays a protective role in maintaining homeostasis under normal conditions and early stage of cancer. During cancer development, autophagy aids to overcome stressful stimuli such as hypoxia and nutrient deprivation. Subsequently, autophagy supports cancer cell growth and facilitates malignant progression in established tumours