MEP1 — Fusarium graminearum PH-1

Summary

FgMEP1 (FGRAMPH1_01G00105) on chromosome 1 of Fusarium graminearum PH-1 encodes a metallopeptidase belonging to the Peptidase_M43 family, with metal-binding activity. The gene is associated with proteolysis, nitrate metabolism, and hyphal growth, and its product is localised extracellularly. FgMEP1 is associated with evasion of symbiont recognition by host pattern recognition receptors. Related genes in other species link the family to reduced virulence and effector functions, including both cytoplasmic and apoplastic effectors, and to interactions with hosts such as tomato and mouse, as well as pathogens like Fusarium oxysporum and Verticillium dahliae.