Moonlighting Proteins: Diverse Functions Found in Fungi.

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Mycology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Moonlighting proteins possess multiple distinct biochemical or biological functions within a single polypeptide chain.
• An expanding repertoire of moonlighting proteins is identified across diverse fungal species, exhibiting varied morphologies, life cycles, and ecological roles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the multifaceted roles of moonlighting proteins in fungi.
• To illustrate their involvement in fundamental cellular processes and inter-cellular interactions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific publications on fungal moonlighting proteins.
• Categorization of moonlighting protein functions based on their cellular roles.

Main Results:

• Moonlighting proteins in fungi are implicated in transcription and DNA metabolism.
• They also play roles in translation and RNA metabolism.
• Examples demonstrate involvement in protein folding, function regulation, and interactions with host proteins.

Conclusions:

• Fungal moonlighting proteins are crucial for diverse cellular functions, extending beyond their primary roles.
• Their multifunctionality contributes to fungal adaptability and pathogenesis.