ERG4 — Magnaporthe oryzae 70-15

Summary

MoERG4 (MGG_02465) on chromosome 1 of Magnaporthe oryzae 70-15 encodes a C-24(28) sterol reductase, an enzyme with D24-sterol reductase, D24(24-1)-sterol reductase, and D14-sterol reductase activities (EC 1.3.1.71) that binds NADP. The gene is associated with ergosterol and lipid A anabolism, protein secretion, filamentous growth of a population of unicellular organisms in response to biotic stimulus, and interaction with host. The product localises to the endoplasmic reticulum membrane. Associations with numerous phenotypes have been recorded, including abnormal cell wall and plasma membrane morphology, decreased invasive growth, sterile, decreased mating response, absent or decreased shmoo formation, abnormal cell cycle progression in S phase, increased cell death, and decreased rate of nutrient uptake. Studies of related genes in other species link the family to reduced virulence and sensitivity to hydrogen peroxide and acid.