Plays a central role in autophagy. Acts as a core subunit of the PI3K complex that mediates formation of phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate; different complex forms are believed to play a role in multiple membrane trafficking pathways: PI3KC3-C1 is involved in initiation of autophagosomes and PI3KC3-C2 in maturation of autophagosomes and endocytosis. Involved in regulation of degradative endocytic trafficking and required for the abcission step in cytokinesis, probably in the context of PI3KC3-C2. Essential for the formation of PI3KC3-C2 but not PI3KC3-C1 PI3K complex forms. Involved in endocytosis. May play a role in antiviral host defense (By similarity).

Beclin-1-C 35 kDa localized to mitochondria can promote apoptosis; it induces the mitochondrial translocation of BAX and the release of proapoptotic factors.