cyp51A — Aspergillus nidulans FGSC A4

Summary

ANIA_01901, designated cyp51A on chromosome 7 of Aspergillus nidulans FGSC A4, encodes a sterol 14alpha-demethylase (EC 1.14.14.154) of the cytochrome P450 family, possessing sterol 14-demethylase, methyltransferase, iron-binding, heme-binding and redox activities. The gene is associated with ergosterol and general sterol anabolism, as well as mycotoxin anabolism, sexual reproduction, meiosis, fermentation, hypersensitivity and methylation. Its product localises to the endoplasmic reticulum membrane and other membranes. Studies of related genes in other species link the CYP51 family to virulence phenotypes, including reduced pathogenicity and lethal effects, and to diseases such as invasive pulmonary aspergillosis and fusarium head blight.