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tef1, a Phytophthora infestans gene encoding translation elongation factor 1alpha
J W van't Klooster1, G van den Berg-Velthuis, P van West
1Laboratory of Phytopathology, Wageningen University and Graduate School of Experimental Plant Sciences, Netherlands.
Gene
|June 1, 2000
Summary
Phytophthora infestans possesses a translation elongation factor 1alpha (tef1) gene expressed throughout its life cycle. Phylogenetic analysis of tef1 suggests oomycetes evolved independently from true fungi.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Evolutionary Biology
- Mycology
Background:
- Phytophthora infestans is a significant plant pathogen.
- Understanding its molecular mechanisms is crucial for disease management.
- Translation elongation factor 1alpha (EF-1alpha) is a conserved protein involved in protein synthesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize the translation elongation factor 1alpha gene (tef1) in Phytophthora infestans.
- To investigate the evolutionary relationship of oomycetes with other eukaryotic groups using EF-1alpha.
Main Methods:
- cDNA library screening from potato-P. infestans interaction.
- Gene sequencing and characterization of the tef1 gene.
- Comparative sequence alignment and phylogenetic analysis of EF-1alpha proteins.
Main Results:
- Identified a single-copy gene, tef1, encoding EF-1alpha in P. infestans.
- tef1 is expressed across all developmental stages of P. infestans.
- Phylogenetic analysis supports independent evolution of oomycetes from true fungi, with P. infestans EF-1alpha clustering with that of the alga Cyanophora paradoxa.
Conclusions:
- The tef1 gene is a conserved and expressed component in P. infestans.
- EF-1alpha protein sequences provide strong evidence for the distinct evolutionary path of oomycetes.
- The phylogenetic position of P. infestans EF-1alpha offers insights into early eukaryotic evolution and plastid origins.