Autophagy is a self-degradation process of cells that plays an important role in clearing misfolded or aggregated proteins, removing damaged organelles (such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and peroxisomes), and eliminating intracellular pathogens. This article reviews and analyzes the relationship between autophagy and neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) by reviewing relevant literature, aiming to summarize the role of autophagy in the pathogenesis and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, providing new ideas for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders.