RAB7 — Aspergillus nidulans FGSC A4

Summary

ANIA_00089 (AnRAB7) on chromosome 8 of Aspergillus nidulans FGSC A4 encodes a small GTPase with GTPase activity and GTP binding. This gene is associated with multiple membrane trafficking processes, including endocytosis, exocytosis, autophagy, and both positive and negative regulation of vacuole fusion. AnRAB7 localises to early and late endosome membranes, the vacuolar membrane, and the Golgi membrane. It is linked to hyphal growth, secretion, intracellular protein transport, and downregulation of TORC1 signaling. Phenotypic associations include altered vacuolar morphology, delayed protein transport and endocytosis, decreased oxidative phosphorylation, increased hydrostatic pressure and ionic stress resistance, abnormal replicative lifespan, and increased entry into G0 stationary phase. Studies of related genes in other species link the family to vacuolar transport, virulence, and stress responses.