LREA — Aspergillus fumigatus

Summary

AFU3G05780 (LREA) in Aspergillus fumigatus encodes a GATA transcription factor LreA that possesses photoreceptor activity, sequence-specific DNA binding, and transferase activity, with zinc-binding and PAS/PAC domains. This gene is associated with rhythmic processes, pigmentation, sporulation, homeostasis, and regulation of DNA-templated transcription, and its product localizes to both the cytoplasm and nucleus. LREA is also linked to respiration rate. Studies of related genes in other species connect this gene family to red light sensitivity, stomatal opening, and reduced virulence, though these associations are not yet established for A. fumigatus.