Modulator of macroautophagy that causes accumulation of autophagosomes under basal conditions and enhances autophagic flux . Represses cell death and promotes long-term clonogenic survival of cells grown in the absence of glucose in a macroautophagy-independent manner . May have some role in extracellular matrix engulfment or growth factor receptor recycling, both of which can modulate cell survival .
Subcellular locations: Cell membrane, Endosome membrane, Cytoplasmic vesicle, Autophagosome membrane
Localizes mainly at the plasma membrane where it concentrates at actin-rich focal adhesions (, ).
Highly expressed in the colon and lung with comparatively high levels also detectable in the lymph nodes, placenta, duodenum, peripheral blood mononuclear cells and spleen .