KAE1 — Aspergillus nidulans FGSC A4

Summary

ANIA_08780 (KAE1, AnKAE1) on chromosome 3 of Aspergillus nidulans FGSC A4 encodes a protein with t6A synthase activity (EC 2.3.1.234) that binds zinc and metal ions, belonging to the KAE1/TsaD and peptidase M22 families. The gene is associated with mitochondrial tRNA t6A modification, siderophore metabolism, arginine breakdown, and DNA-dependent transcription. Its product localises to the mitochondria, mitochondrial lumen, cytoplasm, nucleus, and the EKC/KEOPS complex. AnKAE1 is linked to numerous phenotypes including decreased lifespan, increased apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, abnormal budding, altered protein secretion, and impaired nitrogen utilisation. Related genes in other species are linked to mitochondrial genome maintenance, pseudohyphal growth, and sporulation efficiency.