This gene encodes a phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate-binding protein that functions as a master conductor for aggregate clearance by autophagy. This protein shuttles from the nuclear membrane to colocalize with aggregated proteins, where it complexes with other autophagic components to achieve macroautophagy-mediated clearance of these aggregated proteins. However, it is not necessary for starvation-induced macroautophagy. [provided by RefSeq, May 2010].