Cryptococcus neoformans mediator protein Ssn8 negatively regulates diverse physiological processes and is required for virulence.

ABSTRACT: Cryptococcus neoformans is a ubiquitously distributed human pathogen. It is also a model system for studying fungal virulence, physiology and differentiation. Light is known to inhibit sexual development via the evolutionarily conserved white collar proteins in C. neoformans. To dissect molecular mechanisms regulating this process, we have identified the SSN8 gene whose mutation suppresses the light-dependent CWC1 overexpression phenotype. Characterization of sex-related phenotypes revealed that Ssn8 functions as a negative regulator in both heterothallic a-α mating and same-sex mating processes. In addition, Ssn8 is involved in the suppression of other physiological processes including invasive growth, and production of capsule and melanin. Interestingly, Ssn8 is also required for the mai

SUBMITTER: Wang LI 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3084776 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature