RAN — Aspergillus nidulans FGSC A4

Summary

ANIA_05482 (symbol RAN, preferred name AnRAN) encodes a Ran GTPase, a small GTP-binding protein with GTPase activity. In Aspergillus nidulans FGSC A4 on chromosome 5, this gene is associated with nuclear transport, including nuclear import and export, ribosomal subunit export from the nucleus, and poly(A)+ mRNA export. It is also linked to endosome organization, vacuole fusion, ER-to-Golgi transport, mitosis, and cell cycle progression through G1/S and G2/M transitions. Phenotypic associations include abnormal spore germination, reduced UV and hyperosmotic stress resistance, decreased adhesion, sterility, and altered redox state. The protein localizes to the endomembrane system, vacuolar and Golgi membranes, the ER membrane, and the fungal biofilm matrix. Studies of related genes in other species link the family to pathogenicity and stress responses.