CAT1 — Fusarium graminearum PH-1

Summary

FgCAT1 (FGRAMPH1_01G18533) on chromosome 3 encodes a catalase enzyme with heme-binding and metal-binding activity, belonging to the catalase clade 1/3 family. The gene is associated with hydrogen peroxide catabolism and detoxification, response to cold and oxidative stress, perithecium formation, filamentous growth, and interaction with host. It is linked to fumigaclavine C and indole alkaloid biosynthesis, coenzyme A and acetyl-CoA transport, and localizes to peroxisomes, mitochondria, cytoplasm, and the fungal cell wall. Phenotypic associations include increased pexophagy, decreased utilization of sulfur sources, increased entry into stationary phase, increased ionic stress resistance, increased meiotic recombination, and sterility. Studies of related genes in other species link the family to oxidative stress response and reduced virulence.