What can lead to cellular dysfunction in the context of protein trafficking?

Improperly degraded proteins can lead to cellular dysfunction by causing an accumulation of dysfunctional or misfolded proteins within the cell. In the context of protein trafficking, proteins must be correctly synthesized, folded, modified, and transported to their appropriate cellular destinations. When degradation processes fail—whether due to malfunctioning proteasomes, lysosomal issues, or other cellular pathways—proteins that are obsolete, damaged, or misfolded remain in the cell. This accumulation can disrupt normal cellular functions, interfere with metabolic processes, and ultimately lead to cellular stress or disease.

For example, in neurodegenerative diseases, the accumulation of improperly degraded proteins can form aggregates that are toxic to cells. This highlights why efficient protein degradation is critical to maintaining cellular homeostasis and function.