KEX2 — Candida albicans

Summary

C1_08990C_A (KEX2) on Candida albicans chromosome 1 encodes a serine-type endopeptidase of the kexin/furin subtilisin family. The gene is associated with pheromone processing, N-glycan processing, programmed cell death, autolysis, and filamentous growth of a population of unicellular organisms in response to heat. It is linked to host invasion, disruption of the host extracellular matrix, cytolysis of host cells, immune evasion, inflammatory response, anti-inflammatory response, cytokine production, and phagocytosis. The encoded protein localises to the Golgi membrane and trans-Golgi network. Phenotypic associations include abnormal mating response, abnormal filamentous growth, abnormal protein secretion, increased alkaline pH resistance, and decreased cell fusion. Studies of related genes in other species link the family to reduced virulence and sensitivity to zinc, acid, and oxidative stress.