Autophagy is an essential mechanism to maintain homeostasis at cellular and organismal levels. Autophagy controls nutrient balance, and purges excessive or damaged organelles, misfolded proteins, and invading microorganisms. Regarding human health, several examples highlight its importance as a therapeutic target since autophagy modulation has recognised potential to combat cancer, lupus erythematosus (already at phase III), neurodegeneration and infection as well as a key strategy to slowing age-related tissue decline. In the biotechnological front, innovative applications for optimal agro-food production or for obtaining alternative energy sources from microalgae are possible by modulating autophagy. These and extended prospects will be enhanced by TRANSAUTOPHAGY, a consortium that serves as a platform for enterprises, stakeholders and researchers from diverse disciplines (nanotechnologists, bioinformatics, physics, chemists, biologists and physicians). Foresight workshops will encourage collaborative science by promoting partnerships, by fostering open innovation for creative problem solving, and by providing opportunities for young researchers and gender balance. We will cooperate to generate multidisciplinary breakthroughs about autophagy regulation, and to use this knowledge for biomedical and biotechnological purposes. Specific Committees in Dissemination and Translation will ensure social return of investments. The spectrum of expected outcomes ranges from recommendations for healthy aging or disease prevention to the discovery of new therapies, bio-based components or nanodevices capable of selectively modulating autophagy. These will have clinical potential – as antineoplastic, neuroprotective, antimicrobial or immunomodulatory agents for instance – or to exploit plants and microorganisms for efficient crop and energy production.
