FET3 — Aspergillus fumigatus

Summary

AFU2G17540 (FET3, also known as abr1) on Aspergillus fumigatus chromosome 2 encodes a multicopper oxidase of the CuRO_2_Fet3-like family with ferroxidase activity and iron channel activity. The gene is associated with reductive iron assimilation, cellular copper ion homeostasis, response to copper, and iron ion starvation. It has been linked to conidiophore development, biofilm formation, pigmentation, melanin and polyketide anabolism, eoxin synthesis, arachidonic acid metabolism, and L-phenylalanine breakdown. The encoded protein localises to the high-affinity iron permease complex, the fungal biofilm matrix, and the extracellular space. Associations with sporulation efficiency, spore germination, cell death rate, and alkaline pH resistance have been noted. Studies of related genes in other species connect the family to iron and copper sensitivity and oxidative stress response.