Ulk1, also known as unc-51 like autophagy activating kinase 1, is a serine/threonine kinase. It plays a crucial role in the autophagy pathway, integrating signals from upstream energy sensors such as mTOR and AMPK to regulate the autophagy machinery [1,4]. Ulk1 is also involved in selective autophagy processes like mitophagy, which is essential for removing damaged mitochondria [2,3].

In breast cancer, ULK1 deficiency under hypoxia attenuates mitophagy, leading to the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, abnormal cytokine secretion, osteoclast differentiation, and ultimately bone metastasis [2]. In diabetic nephropathy, ULK1 is identified as a potential biomarker, and its expression is associated with immune cell infiltration and GFR, potentially influencing the disease development through regulating mitophagy [3]. In pancreatic β cells, DRAK2 phosphorylates ULK1 at Ser56, inducing its ubiquitylation and suppressing autophagy, thus impairing β cell function upon overnutrition [5].

In conclusion, Ulk1 is essential for autophagy and mitophagy processes. Gene knockout-related studies in models like breast cancer, diabetic nephropathy, and pancreatic β cell function have revealed its role in these disease-related biological processes. Understanding Ulk1 can provide insights into the mechanisms of these diseases and potentially offer new therapeutic targets.