LEU3 — Magnaporthe oryzae 70-15

Summary

MGG_13485 (MoLEU3) encodes a 2-isopropylmalate synthase (EC 2.3.3.13) with metal-binding activity, a key enzyme in L-leucine biosynthesis. The protein localises to mitochondria and contains conserved domains including the 2-isopropylmalate synthase dimerisation and allosteric domains. Beyond its primary metabolic role, MoLEU3 is associated with morphogenesis and protein synthesis in Magnaporthe oryzae. The gene has been linked to blast disease in rice (Oryza sativa) and barley (Hordeum vulgare). Phenotypic associations include altered cell cycle progression, budding patterns, pseudohyphal growth, and stress responses such as decreased osmotic stress resistance and acquired thermotolerance. Additional connections involve fermentative metabolism, prion inheritance, and nuclear export. The gene family, studied through related genes in other species, is broadly linked to leucine biosynthesis and mitochondrial function.