CCR4 — Aspergillus fumigatus

Summary

AFU4G12750 (CCR4, also known as NGL1) in Aspergillus fumigatus encodes a 3'-5' exoribonuclease with poly(A)-specific RNase activity (EC 3.1.13.4) and RNA-binding capability, belonging to the CCR4-NOT core complex and containing leucine-rich repeat and endo/exonuclease/phosphatase domains. The gene is associated with nuclear-transcribed mRNA poly(A) tail shortening, DNA replication checkpoint control, traversing the start control point of the mitotic cell cycle, and positive regulation of transcription elongation by RNA polymerase II. It is linked to immune memory response, innate immunity, T cell polarization, sensitization, and hypersensitivity. Phenotypic associations include increased virulence, increased sporulation, decreased polyploidy, abnormal cell cycle progression, delayed exit from G0, and decreased cell death rate. The gene product localizes to the cytoplasm, nucleus, P-body, and Paf1 complex. Studies of related genes in other species connect the family to oxidative stress response and zinc sensitivity.