[Function of ferric reductase FRP1 gene in Candida albicans].
The ability of iron acquisition in Candida albicans has an effect on its growth and pathogenesis. Ferric reductases are important components of high affinity iron acquisition system in C. albicans.


OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to elucidate the function of FRP1 (Ferric reductase protein).


METHODS
FRP1 gene expression was detected under low-iron and high-iron conditions by Northern blot. We used the method of PCR-directed gene disruption to construct frp 1 null mutant and then the phenotypes of frp1delta/delta mutant were characterized.


RESULTS
Low-iron condition induced FRP1 gene expression. frp1delta/delta mutant showed no growth on low-iron media compared to wild-type strains on solid plates.


CONCLUSIONS
FRP1 protein is probably the main ferric reductase under low-iron condition.
Liang
Yong
Y
Key Laboratory of Molecular and Technology, Ministry of Education, Department of Microbiology, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China. hnsdly@yahoo.com.cn
Zheng
Wen
W
Wei
Dongsheng
D
Xing
Laijun
L
Li
Mingchun
M
D015152:Blotting, Northern; D002176:Candida albicans / Q000201:enzymology* / Q000235:genetics; D038181:FMN Reductase / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology*; D005656:Fungal Proteins / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology; D015966:Gene Expression Regulation, Fungal / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology; D007501:Iron / Q000378:metabolism; D009154:Mutation
D005656:Fungal Proteins; D007501:Iron; D038181:FMN Reductase; C023903:ferric citrate iron reductase