ATG7 (Autophagy-related 7) is a key enzyme involved in the process of autophagy, a cellular mechanism responsible for degrading and recycling damaged or unnecessary cellular components. ATG7 plays a crucial role in the formation of autophagosomes, which are membrane-bound vesicles that encapsulate cellular debris for degradation. It acts as an essential E1-like enzyme in the autophagy pathway, facilitating the conjugation of LC3 (microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3) to phosphatidylethanolamine, a critical step in autophagosome formation. ATG7 is involved in various cellular processes, including cellular homeostasis, response to stress, immune function, and development. Dysregulation of ATG7 has been linked to several diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, and immune system dysfunction.