SET1 — Aspergillus nidulans FGSC A4

Summary

ANIA_05795 (SET1, AnSET1) encodes a Set1-like protein with histone H3K4 trimethylase and methylase activity (EC 2.1.1.354) and RNA-binding capacity, localising to the nucleus, chromatin, telomeric regions and the Set1C complex. In Aspergillus nidulans, this gene is associated with transposable element silencing via heterochromatin formation, heterochromatin island assembly, telomeric silencing, chromatin-mediated maintenance of transcription, protein methylation and phosphorylation, mitosis, and donor selection. Phenotypic associations include increased transposable element transposition, altered cell cycle progression through G2/M and G1/S transitions, premature metaphase-anaphase transition, increased sporulation rate, abnormal spore germination, delayed exit from G0, and altered pheromone sensitivity. Studies of related genes in other species link the family to reduced virulence.