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The role of the Mediator complex in fungal pathogenesis and response to antifungal agents

James O'Connor-Moneley1, Leenah Alaalm1, Gary P Moran1

  • 1Microbiology Research Unit, Division of Oral Biosciences, Dublin Dental University Hospital, University of Dublin, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.

Essays in Biochemistry
|April 4, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Mediator complex regulates genes for virulence and drug resistance in pathogenic fungi. Research explores unique Mediator subunit roles and structural divergence in species like Candida albicans.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Mycology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • The Mediator complex is crucial for RNA polymerase II recruitment and transcriptional activation in eukaryotes.
  • Recent studies reveal Mediator's role in regulating virulence and antifungal drug resistance genes in pathogenic fungi.

Approach:

  • This review synthesizes recent findings on Mediator subunit functions in pathogenic fungi.
  • Focuses on specific examples, particularly in Candida albicans and Candida glabrata.

Key Points:

  • Mediator subunits control gene expression vital for fungal pathogenicity.
  • Pathogenic fungi exhibit unique Mediator structures, such as duplicated Med15 in C. glabrata and expanded TLO gene family (Med2 orthologues) in C. albicans.
  • Investigating Mediator provides insights into antifungal drug resistance mechanisms.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding Mediator's role in pathogenic fungi is key to developing novel antifungal strategies.
  • Divergence in Mediator structure suggests species-specific adaptations in virulence and drug resistance.
Keywords:
Drug resistanceFungiMediatorPathogenicVirulenceYeast

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