New Class of IMP Dehydrogenase in Fungi
Author Information
Author(s): Hansen Bjarne G, Genee Hans J, Kaas Christian S, Nielsen Jakob B, Regueira Torsten B, Mortensen Uffe H, Frisvad Jens C, Patil Kiran R
Primary Institution: Technical University of Denmark
Hypothesis
The IMPDH encoded by mpaF is responsible for self-resistance to mycophenolic acid in Penicillium species.
Conclusion
A novel variant of the IMPDH-encoding gene was identified, which confers high resistance to mycophenolic acid when expressed in a non-producing fungus.
Supporting Evidence
- The mpaF gene was shown to increase resistance to mycophenolic acid in a model fungus.
- All six strains of Penicillium examined contained two copies of IMPDH.
- A novel group of IMPDH homologs was identified through cladistic analysis.
Takeaway
Some fungi can make a medicine called mycophenolic acid, and they have a special tool that helps them not get hurt by it. This study found a new version of that tool.
Methodology
The study involved transferring the mpaF gene into Aspergillus nidulans to test its effect on resistance to mycophenolic acid.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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