A Metaphorical Illustration of ATG5-Mediated Autophagy in Lung Epithelial Defense Against Pseudomonas Infection (IMAGE)

Sichuan International Medical Exchange and Promotion Association

A Metaphorical Illustration of ATG5-Mediated Autophagy in Lung Epithelial Defense Against Pseudomonas Infection

Caption

This illustration visualizes the protective role of autophagy in alveolar epithelial cells during Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection. A traditional Chinese alchemical furnace represents the alveolar epithelial cell, where a steady blue flame—symbolizing intact ATG5-dependent autophagy—maintains cellular stability. The golden elixir inside the furnace stands for mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), safely sequestered under normal conditions. Upon bacterial invasion—visualized by green rod-shaped P. aeruginosa—the furnace becomes damaged: its structure cracks, burns red, and the golden elixir leaks out. This symbolizes impaired autophagy, which leads pyroptotic rupture and uncontrolled release of mtDNA, thereby amplifying downstream inflammatory injury.

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Dr. Guoping Li and Dr. Min Wu

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