GWT1 — Aspergillus fumigatus

Summary

AFU1G14870 (GWT1) in Aspergillus fumigatus encodes a member of the PIGW/GWT1 protein family with glucosaminyl-phosphatidylinositol O-acyltransferase activity (EC 2.3.-.-). This gene is associated with GPI anchor anabolism, protein maturation, and protein localization to the plasma membrane. It localizes to the endoplasmic reticulum membrane and is linked to germ tube formation, hyphal growth, biofilm formation, and tube formation. Phenotypic associations include abnormal flocculation, cytokinesis, and endomembrane system morphology, as well as decreased budding, cold sensitivity, survival rate in stationary phase, and vegetative growth. Additional links include increased chitin deposition, telomere length, and killer toxin resistance, along with abnormal cell cycle progression, protein transport, and RNA accumulation. Studies of related genes in other species connect the family to abnormal cell size, cell wall morphology, and nutrient uptake.