ADE1 — Neurospora crassa

Summary

NCU03166 (ADE1, ad-3A) on Neurospora crassa chromosome 1 encodes a SAICAR synthetase with phosphoribosylaminoimidazolesuccinocarboxamide synthase activity (EC 6.3.2.6) and ATP binding. The gene is associated with purine ribonucleotide, adenine, and de novo IMP anabolism, as well as ascospore formation and DNA repair. Its product localises to the cytoplasm, cytosol, and nucleus. Phenotypic associations include auxotrophy, increased pseudohyphal and invasive growth, abnormal cellular and vacuolar morphology, decreased UV and stress resistance, altered chronological lifespan, and changes in vegetative growth rate and competitive fitness. The gene is also linked to altered nitrogen source utilisation, heat sensitivity, oxidative stress resistance, and chemical compound excretion. Studies of related genes in other species connect the family to abnormal colony colour, sporulation efficiency, vegetative growth, and resistance to acid pH and desiccation.