SQSTM1/p62 is an adapter protein which binds ubiquitin and regulates signaling cascades through ubiquitination. It may regulate the activation of NFKB1 by TNF-alpha, nerve growth factor (NGF) and interleukin-1. More recently, a role for SQSTM1/p62 in macroautophagic removal of intracellular protein aggregates has also been proposed. Studies involving the cellular depletion of SQSTM1/p62 have indicated a need for its association with LC3 and the aggregate proteins in order to facilitate correct formation of the autophagosome