LC3B (microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 beta) is a key protein involved in the autophagy pathway and is widely used as a marker to assess autophagic activity in cells. While not a classical immunogenic cell death (ICD) marker, its expression in tumors has been linked with several prognostic implications, often reflecting the balance between autophagy’s tumor-suppressive and tumor-promoting roles.
• LC3B plays a central role in autophagosome formation.
• Its conversion from LC3BI (cytosolic form) to LC3BII (lipidated, membrane-bound form) is a key indicator of autophagy activation.
• LC3B is sometimes evaluated together with other autophagy-related proteins (such as Beclin-1) to generate an overall picture of autophagic activity in the tumor.
– In several cancers (e.g., pancreatic, colorectal, and breast cancers), elevated LC3B levels have been associated with enhanced autophagy, which can promote tumor cell survival under stress conditions (such as hypoxia or chemotherapy).
– Certain studies, particularly in early-stage tumors or specific subtypes, have found that higher LC3B correlates with improved outcomes.
(Will delete Record if Target field = "Delete") Home