FLC1 — Aspergillus fumigatus

Summary

AFU4G13340 (FLC1, flcA) in Aspergillus fumigatus encodes a stretch-activated, monoatomic cation-selective calcium channel with TRP_N, TRP_C and TRP_Flc/Pkd2-like domains. The gene is associated with calcium ion import, calcineurin-mediated signaling, TOR signaling, cellular water homeostasis, the cellular HOG response, and regulation of cell wall (1→3)-beta-D-glucan biosynthetic process. Its product localises to the plasma membrane, ER, Golgi membrane, cleavage furrow, division septum and cell tips. Phenotypic associations link FLC1 to increased hyperosmotic stress resistance, increased biofilm formation and chitin deposition, decreased spore germination and ionic stress resistance, abnormal vegetative growth and sporulation, increased lifespan, delayed autophagy, and altered cell cycle progression including G1 arrest and defective recovery from pheromone-induced arrest. The gene is also connected to invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in a mouse model.