SAP2 — Candida albicans

Summary

CR_07800W_A (SAP2) on Candida albicans chromosome 8 encodes an aspartic endopeptidase (EC 3.4.23.24) of the SAP-like aspartic peptidase A1 family, with metal-binding capability. The gene is associated with a wide range of host immune and inflammatory responses, including neutrophil chemotaxis and migration, acute inflammatory response, type I interferon and cytokine production (IL-6, IL-8, IGIF), T cell activation and proliferation, antibody production, opsonization, and epithelial cell differentiation. It is also linked to chemotaxis, regulation of morphogenesis, and inositol anabolism. The encoded protein localizes to extracellular vesicles, the fungal-type cell wall, and the extracellular space. Studies of related genes in other species further connect the aspartic peptidase family to virulence-related processes.