InterPro domain: IPR040182

This entry represents autophagy-related protein 13 (Atg13) from yeasts, animals and plants, which functions in autophagy.

Fission yeast autophagy initiation is controlled by the Atg1 kinase complex, which is composed of the Ser/Thr kinase Atg1, the adaptor protein Atg13, and the ternary complex of Atg17-Atg31-Atg29. Atg13 recruits Atg1 to the site of autophagosome formation and enhancing Atg1 kinase activity. Atg13 may have additional functions that are independent of a direct interaction or permanent colocalization with Atg1 [ 1 ].

In vertebrates, the orthologous ULK1 kinase complex contains the Ser/Thr kinase ULK1 and the accessory proteins ATG13, RB1CC1, and ATG101 [ 2 ]. Through its regulation of ULK1 activity, Atg13 plays a role in the regulation of the kinase activity of mTORC1 and cell proliferation [ 2 ].

1. ATG13: just a companion, or an executor of the autophagic program? Autophagy 10, 944-56
2. ULK-Atg13-FIP200 complexes mediate mTOR signaling to the autophagy machinery. Mol. Biol. Cell 20, 1992-2003