The article discusses the emerging regulation and functions of autophagy, a process that maintains cellular homeostasis through degradation. Autophagy is characterized by the formation of double-membrane vesicles called autophagosomes, which sequester and degrade cytoplasmic components. The Atg proteins play a crucial role in this process, and their post-translational modifications contribute to the plasticity and integration of multiple stimuli. Recent studies have revealed that autophagy has additional functions beyond its role in cellular component turnover, including regulation of metabolism, membrane transport, and modulation of host defenses. Selective autophagy, which targets specific organelles or pathogens, has been identified, and the involvement of ubiquitination and other post-translational modifications in this process is highlighted. The article also explores the non-degradative roles of autophagy-related proteins, such as their participation in membrane transport and secretion, and their regulation of tissue microenvironment metabolism. Finally, it discusses the potential therapeutic applications of modulating autophagy in various diseases.The article discusses the emerging regulation and functions of autophagy, a process that maintains cellular homeostasis through degradation. Autophagy is characterized by the formation of double-membrane vesicles called autophagosomes, which sequester and degrade cytoplasmic components. The Atg proteins play a crucial role in this process, and their post-translational modifications contribute to the plasticity and integration of multiple stimuli. Recent studies have revealed that autophagy has additional functions beyond its role in cellular component turnover, including regulation of metabolism, membrane transport, and modulation of host defenses. Selective autophagy, which targets specific organelles or pathogens, has been identified, and the involvement of ubiquitination and other post-translational modifications in this process is highlighted. The article also explores the non-degradative roles of autophagy-related proteins, such as their participation in membrane transport and secretion, and their regulation of tissue microenvironment metabolism. Finally, it discusses the potential therapeutic applications of modulating autophagy in various diseases.