Divergence of Stp1 and Stp2 transcription factors in Candida albicans places virulence factors required for proper nutrient acquisition under amino acid control.

ABSTRACT: Candida albicans possesses a plasma membrane-localized sensor of extracellular amino acids. Here, we show that in response to amino acids, this sensor induces the proteolytic processing of two latent transcription factors, Stp1 and Stp2. Processing removes negative regulatory motifs present in the N-terminal domains of these factors. Strikingly, Stp1 and Stp2 exhibit a clear dichotomy in the genes they transactivate. The shorter active form of Stp2 activates genes required for amino acid uptake. The processed form of Stp1 activates genes required for degradation of extracellular protein and uptake of peptides, and cells lacking Stp1 do not express the secreted aspartyl protease SAP2 or the oligopeptide transporter OPT1. Consequently, stp1 null mutants are unable to grow on media with prote

SUBMITTER: Martinez P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC1265835 | biostudies-literature | 2005 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature