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Updated: Feb 4, 2026

Analysis of SNARE-mediated Membrane Fusion Using an Enzymatic Cell Fusion Assay
Published on: October 19, 2012
YKT6 as a second SNARE protein of mammalian autophagosomes
Noboru Mizushima1, Takahide Matsui1, Hayashi Yamamoto1
1a Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Graduate School and Faculty of Medicine , The University of Tokyo , Tokyo , Japan.
Abstract:
Mammalian autophagosomes possess the Qa-SNARE STX17 (syntaxin 17) for fusion with lysosomes. However, STX17 is not absolutely required for fusion because STX17 knockout cells partially retain autophagosome-lysosome fusion activity. We recently identified YKT6, an R-SNARE, as another autophagosomal SNARE protein that acts independently of STX17 in mammals. Here, we discuss the features and functions of autophagosomal SNARE proteins by comparing STX17 and YKT6. Abbreviations: SNARE, soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor; STX17, syntaxin 17.
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