Recombinant human ULK3 protein

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

ULK3 also known as Unc-51 Like Autophagy Activating Kinase 3 is a serine/threonine-protein kinase with a molecular mass of approximately 58 kDa. This protein plays an important role in mediating cellular processes through phosphorylation. ULK3 shows expression in various tissues including the brain and kidney. Its catalytic activity influences multiple cellular events especially those related to autophagy the cell's degradation pathway for removing damaged organelles and recycling cellular components.

Biological function summary

This protein contributes significantly through its involvement in autophagy regulation. ULK3 acts as a kinase within a multiprotein complex which includes proteins such as ATG13 and FIP200. This complex is essential for initiating autophagy by regulating the autophagosome formation. Its activity can promote cellular survival under nutrient-deprived conditions showcasing its role as an important regulatory component in cellular maintenance and stress responses.

Pathways

ULK3 takes part in critical signaling pathways such as the mTOR signaling pathway and the Hedgehog signaling pathway. In the mTOR pathway ULK3 through its kinase activity acts upstream to regulate the activity of the autophagy machinery. It shares a functional relationship with proteins like mTOR and AMPK. In the Hedgehog pathway ULK3 regulates pathway components impacting cellular growth and differentiation processes. This positions ULK3 as a modulator connecting different signaling pathways to maintain cellular homeostasis.

Associated diseases and disorders

Researchers have reported associations with cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Abnormal ULK3 activity can influence tumor growth and progression particularly in its regulatory role in cell proliferation and survival. Studies also suggest an involvement in neurodegenerative diseases where dysregulation in autophagy processes in which ULK3 plays a part contributes to neuronal cell death. In these contexts ULK3's interactions with proteins like mTOR and Beclin-1 may exacerbate disease progression by altering normal cellular processes.