atfB — Aspergillus nidulans FGSC A4

Summary

ANIA_06849 (atfB) on chromosome 1 of Aspergillus nidulans FGSC A4 encodes a basic leucine zipper (bZIP) transcription factor of the AP-1 family, with DNA-binding transcription factor activity and RNA polymerase II-specific regulatory function. The gene is associated with cleistothecium formation, upregulation of aflatoxin anabolism, cellular responses to hydrogen peroxide and heat, secondary and carbohydrate metabolism, and positive regulation of transcription. Its product localises to the nucleus and transcription regulator complexes. Studies of related genes in other species link the family to reduced virulence and associations with ear rot in corn and yellow mold in peanut, as well as invasive pulmonary aspergillosis.