KEX2 — Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici 4287

Summary

FoKEX2 (FOXG_05775) on chromosome 2 of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici 4287 encodes a serine-type endopeptidase of the kexin/furin family, containing a peptidase S8 subtilisin-related domain. The gene is associated with protein processing, pheromone processing, and upregulation of conjugation with cellular fusion. It localises to the Golgi membrane, trans-Golgi network, and membrane. Phenotypic associations include abnormal mating response, increased mating efficiency, decreased cell fusion, decreased pheromone production, decreased shmoo formation, abnormal filamentous growth, absent spore germination, sterile phenotype, abnormal autophagy, absent mitophagy, abnormal endocytosis, absent protein secretion, and increased alkaline pH resistance. The gene is also linked to cell death. Related genes in other species have been linked to reduced virulence.