PRA1 — Verticillium dahliae

Summary

VdPRA1 (VDAG_04551) from Verticillium dahliae encodes a PRA1-like metallopeptidase with zinc-binding and integrin-, fibrinogen- and host kinase-binding activities. The gene is associated with stomatal closure, and multiple immune-modulating processes including suppression of host complement activation and T-cell-mediated immunity, as well as adhesion to the host via the extracellular matrix and iron acquisition from the host. The product localises to the hyphal tip, hyphal cell wall, and extracellular space. Studies of related genes in other species link the family to increased innate thermotolerance and decreased vegetative growth, and to protein content and oxidative stress response.