Abstract

Candida albicans, the most prevalent human fungal pathogen, can switch stochastically between white and opaque phases. In this study, we identified Zcf37, a zinc finger protein, as a new regulator of white-opaque switching. Deletion of ZCF37 increased white-to-opaque switching frequency and stabilized the opaque state. Overexpression of ZCF37 promoted conversion of opaque cells to white phase, but needed existence of Efg1, a key regulator required for maintenance of the white state. Deletion of EFG1 abolished the effect of ectopically expressed Zcf37 on opaque-to-white switching, whereas ectopic expression of EFG1 promoted white cell formation without presence of Zcf37. Our results suggest that Zcf37 acts as an activator of white cell formation and a repressor of opaque state and functions upstream of Efg1.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.