VPS9 — Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici 4287

Summary

FoVPS9 (FOXG_00470) on chromosome 1 of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici 4287 encodes a protein containing Vps9, CUE, and domains, with ubiquitin-binding and activity. The gene is associated with endocytosis, vesicle transport, and autophagy, and its product localises to endocytic vesicles and the cytosol. FoVPS9 is linked to numerous phenotypes including delayed protein transport and endocytosis, abnormal Golgi morphology, increased hydrostatic pressure resistance, absent hyperosmotic stress resistance, decreased cell death, and altered cell cycle progression through G2/M and entry into G0. It is also connected to abnormal spore wall formation, increased UV and ionic stress resistance, and absent micronucleophagy and vacuolar transport. Studies of related genes in other species link the VPS9 family to reduced virulence and altered nitrogen source utilisation.