Characterization of the Aspergillus nidulans 14-3-3 homologue, ArtA

Authors

Peter R. Kraus, University of Connecticut Health Center
Amy F. Hoffman, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT
Steven D. Harris, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

April 2002

Comments

Published in FEMS Microbiology Letters 210:1 (April 2002), pp. 61-66; doi:10.1111/j.1574-6968.2002.tb11160.x Copyright © 2002 Federation of European Microbiological Societies. Published by Elsevier Science B.V. Used by permission. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/journal/03781097

Abstract

The 14-3-3 family of proteins function as small adaptors that facilitate a diverse array of cellular processes by mediating specific protein interactions. One such process is the DNA damage checkpoint, where these proteins prevent inappropriate activation of cyclin-dependent kinases. The filamentous fungus Aspergillus nidulans possesses a highly conserved 14- 3-3 homologue (artA) that may function in an analogous manner to prevent septum formation. However, instead of blocking septation, over-expression of artA causes a severe delay in the polarization of conidiospores. This observation suggests that these proteins play an important role in hyphal morphogenesis.