SAP4 — Candida albicans

Summary

C6_03500C_A (SAP4) on Candida albicans chromosome 6 encodes an aspartic endopeptidase (EC 3.4.23.24) belonging to the aspartic peptidase A1 family, with metal-binding capability. The gene is associated with T cell polarization, anti-inflammatory response, IL-1 production, cell motility, transepithelial migration of symbiont in host, inflammatory response, innate immunity, germ tube formation, tube formation, perturbation of host immune response, regulation of autophagy, quorum sensing, cellular homeostasis, phagocytosis, localization, protein localisation, immune response, and immune evasion. The encoded protein localizes to extracellular vesicles, the fungal cell wall, and the biofilm matrix, and is associated with oral, vaginal, and disseminated candidiasis in mammalian models including humans, rats, and mice. Related genes in other species link the family to increased virulence and loss of pathogenicity.