Bcl2 like 13 (BCL2L13)

Bcl2 like 13 (BCL2L13) is an outer mitochondrial membrane-anchored transmembrane protein functioning as a receptor for mitophagy in mammalian cells. It contains two LC3-interacting regions (LIRs) enabling direct interaction with autophagy effectors such as LC3B, GABARAP, and ULK1. BCL2L13 acts independently of the canonical PINK1-Parkin pathway and orchestrates the selective removal of damaged mitochondria by recruiting autophagy machinery, particularly in response to mitochondrial depolarization or metabolic stress. The MEKK3-MEK5-ERK5 signaling axis is additionally identified as a novel regulator promoting mitophagy under basal, non-damage conditions, though its molecular details as a drug target remain under investigation[1][2][3].

Other names

ATG32-like proteinBcl-2-L-13

Recruitment of autophagy-related proteins (e.g., LC3B, GABARAP) via LC3-interacting region (LIR) Formation of LC3B/ULK1/BCL2L13 complex for mitophagy induction Phosphorylation-dependent regulation of autophagy machinery engagement[1][2]