It will be important do determine if other proteins that are part of the BECN1 complex (Atg14L, PIK3R4, UVRAG, Ambra1, Vps15, Bif-1, or Rubicon) are also reduced in AD or in response to BECN1 reduction, respectively, as this could help explain the (possibly indirect) effects of BECN1 reduction on autophagosomal degradation (Fig. 8). The gene discussed is PIK3R4; the disease is Alzheimer disease.