devR — Aspergillus fumigatus

Summary

AFU2G14800 (devR) on chromosome 2 of Aspergillus fumigatus encodes a putative HLH transcription factor (Hpa3) with a bHLH domain. The product possesses DNA-binding transcription activator activity, RNA polymerase II-specific, and protein dimerization activity, and localises to the nucleus and RNA polymerase II transcription regulator complex. The gene is associated with positive regulation of transcription by RNA polymerase II, cell differentiation, sporulation, and induction of conjugation upon carbon starvation. It is linked to DHN-melanin biosynthesis, immune evasion, and starch breakdown and metabolism. Related genes in other species, including Verticillium dahliae and Fusarium oxysporum pathovars, are linked to the bHLH domain, though these associations are not yet established for devR itself.