Human Beclin-1, BECN1 ELI

Plays a central role in autophagy (PubMed: 23184933, PubMed: 28445460).

Acts as core subunit of the PI3K complex that mediates formation of phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate; different complex forms are believed to play a role in multiple membrane trafficking pathways: PI3KC3-C1 is involved in initiation of autophagosomes and PI3KC3-C2 in maturation of autophagosomes and endocytosis.

Involved in regulation of degradative endocytic trafficking and required for the abcission step in cytokinesis, probably in the context of PI3KC3-C2 (PubMed: 20643123, PubMed: 20208530, PubMed: 26783301).

Essential for the formation of PI3KC3-C2 but not PI3KC3-C1 PI3K complex forms.

Involved in endocytosis (PubMed: 25275521).

Protects against infection by a neurovirulent strain of Sindbis virus (PubMed: 9765397).

May play a role in antiviral host defense.

Beclin-1-C 35 kDa localized to mitochondria can promote apoptosis; it induces the mitochondrial translocation of BAX and the release of proapoptotic factors.