PMT3 — Verticillium dahliae

Summary

VdPMT3 (VDAG_02409) on chromosome DS572698 of Verticillium dahliae encodes an SMT3 protein containing a Rad60/SUMO-like domain and a ubiquitin-like domain. The encoded product is associated with E3 protein ligase binding and protein tagging, and is linked to both sumoylation and desumoylation processes. It localises to the nucleus, mitotic spindle pole body, septin ring, and linear element. The gene is associated with numerous cell cycle phenotypes, including delayed G1/S phase transition, abnormal M phase progression, delayed chromosome segregation, and absent or arrested meiosis. It is also connected to altered telomere maintenance, decreased sporulation, and abnormal nuclear fusion during mating. Studies of related genes in other species link the family to reduced virulence.