AQP1 — Aspergillus fumigatus

Summary

AFU4G03390 (AfAQP1) encodes an aquaporin with water channel activity, belonging to the major intrinsic protein (MIP) family. The gene is associated with water transport and immune response, and its product localises to the plasma membrane and nuclear membrane. AfAQP1 is associated with numerous phenotypes including increased freeze-thaw resistance, decreased biofilm formation, altered sporulation, reduced hyperosmotic stress resistance, decreased desiccation resistance, increased chronological lifespan, and decreased replicative lifespan. It is also associated with altered cell cycle progression, including increased G1 phase duration and decreased critical cell size at the G1 checkpoint, as well as changes in fermentative and respiratory growth, nitrogen source utilisation, and toxin resistance. Studies of related genes in other species link the family to oxidative stress response and increased sporulation efficiency.