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Posttranslational modifications of proteins in the pathobiology of medically relevant fungi
Michelle D Leach1, Alistair J P Brown
1School of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Institute of Medical Sciences, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, United Kingdom. michelle.leach@abdn.ac.uk
Abstract:
Posttranslational modifications of proteins drive a wide variety of cellular processes in eukaryotes, regulating cell growth and division as well as adaptive and developmental processes. With regard to the fungal kingdom, most information about posttranslational modifications has been generated through studies of the model yeasts Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Schizosaccharomyces pombe, where, for example, the roles of protein phosphorylation, glycosylation, acetylation, ubiquitination, sumoylation, and neddylation have been dissected. More recently, information has begun to emerge for the medically important fungal pathogens Candida albicans, Aspergillus fumigatus, and Cryptococcus neoformans, highlighting the relevance of posttranslational modifications for virulence. We review the available literature on protein modifications in fungal pathogens, focusing in particular upon the reversible peptide modifications sumoylation, ubiquitination, and neddylation.
Insights
Posttranslational modifications regulate fungal cell processes and virulence. This review focuses on sumoylation, ubiquitination, and neddylation in fungal pathogens, highlighting their importance.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Mycology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Posttranslational modifications (PTMs) are crucial for eukaryotic cellular processes, including growth, division, and development.
- Research on fungal PTMs has primarily utilized model yeasts like Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Schizosaccharomyces pombe.
- Emerging data show PTMs are vital for the virulence of medically important fungal pathogens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on protein modifications in fungal pathogens.
- To specifically focus on the roles of reversible peptide modifications: sumoylation, ubiquitination, and neddylation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on fungal protein modifications.
- Analysis of research focusing on sumoylation, ubiquitination, and neddylation in pathogenic fungi.
Main Results:
- PTMs significantly impact fungal cell functions and virulence.
- Sumoylation, ubiquitination, and neddylation are key regulatory mechanisms in fungal pathogens.
- These modifications are increasingly recognized for their role in fungal pathogenesis.
Conclusions:
- Understanding PTMs, particularly sumoylation, ubiquitination, and neddylation, is critical for deciphering fungal pathogen biology.
- Further research into these modifications can reveal new therapeutic targets for fungal infections.
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