WOR3 — Candida albicans

Summary

WOR3 (CR_03890W_A) on Candida albicans chromosome 8 encodes a sequence-specific DNA-binding protein with a zinc-binding domain and a Mediator complex subunit 12 family domain. The gene is associated with phenotypic switching, cell fate determination, biofilm formation, mating, and symbiotic interactions, and its product localizes to the nucleus. WOR3 is linked to numerous phenotypes including abnormal filamentous growth, increased alkaline pH and osmotic stress resistance, increased flocculation, increased vegetative growth rate, abnormal cell wall and bud neck morphology, decreased pheromone sensitivity, absent endocytosis and cytokinesis, and increased starvation resistance. It is also associated with abnormal prion state, decreased bipolar budding, and decreased nutrient uptake. Studies of related genes in other species link the family to abnormal silencing.