AGO1 — Fusarium graminearum PH-1

Summary

FgAGO1 (FGRAMPH1_01G00923) on chromosome 1 of Fusarium graminearum PH-1 encodes an Argonaute-family protein containing Piwi, PAZ, and domains with endoribonuclease activity that cleaves siRNA-paired mRNA and binds siRNA and ssRNA. The gene is associated with including siRNA and priRNA processing, RNA-dependent gene silencing, and RNAi-mediated chromatin silencing at centromeres and heterochromatin islands. It is linked to sexual reproduction, ascospore and conidia formation, hyphal growth, pigmentation, and antiviral defense responses. Phenotypic associations include abnormal sporulation, decreased oxidative stress resistance, increased heat sensitivity, altered competitive fitness, and increased replicative and chronological lifespan. The protein localizes to the RITS and ARC complexes, heterochromatin, cytoplasm, and nucleus.