LC3I

Microtubule-associated protein light chain 3 (LC3) is considered one of the definitive markers of autophagy, and its use is widespread in labs throughout the world. Despite its popularity, there are several considerations when employing LC3 antibodies in immunoassays, Western blots in particular.

MAP1LC3 (shortened to LC3 in our antibody catalog) is one of four mammalian homologues of autophagy-related protein 8 (Atg8). It has been identified as a light chain subunit of the microtubule-associated proteins MAP1A/MAP1B. A modified form of LC3, LC3-II, has been identified as a marker for the autophagosomal membrane in mammals.

In rodents, MAP1LC3 (Microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3) is expressed in the renal visceral epithelial cells, or podocytes. LC3 antibody analysis has shown the protein accumulates in its membrane-bound form, LC3II, following conversion from LC3I.

We at Novus Biologicals have a broad antibody database covering the area of autophagy - over 1400 reagents in total. Autophagy is the bulk degradation of cytoplasmic components - literally, self-digestion of the cell. Double-membrane vesicles, called autophagosomes, carry unwanted cell components to the lysosomes within an inner autophagic membrane. They then fuse, liberating the autophagic body and its contents into the lumen of the vacuole for degradation. This is a complex process involving at least 16 proteins.