atrR — Aspergillus nidulans FGSC A4

Summary

ANIA_05220 (atrR) on chromosome 5 of Aspergillus nidulans FGSC A4 encodes a Zn(II)2Cys6 transcription factor with DNA-binding transcription activator activity specific to RNA polymerase II. The gene is associated with positive regulation of thiamin biosynthetic process, ergosterol anabolism, and biofilm formation, as well as hypersensitivity and RNA-dependent gene silencing. Its product localises to the nucleus, chromatin, membrane, and cytosol. Studies of related genes in other species link the family to reduced virulence and pulmonary aspergillosis, though these associations are not yet established for atrR itself.