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Structural and functional conservation of fungal MatA and human SRY sex-determining proteins

Author

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  • Wioletta Czaja

    (Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University
    School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University
    University of Idaho)

  • Karen Y. Miller

    (Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University
    University of Idaho)

  • Michael K. Skinner

    (Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University
    School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University)

  • Bruce L. Miller

    (Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University
    University of Idaho)

Abstract

Sex determination in animals and fungi is regulated by specific sex-determining genes. The Aspergillus nidulans mating type gene matA and the human SRY (Sex-Determining Region Y) encode proteins containing a single HMG (high-mobility group) domain. Analysis of the amino-acid sequence of MatA and SRY transcription factors revealed significant structural similarity. The human SRY protein is able to functionally replace MatA and drives the sexual cycle in the fungus A. nidulans. Functional studies indicate that SRY drives early fruiting body development, and hybrid MatA protein carrying the SRY HMG box is fully capable of driving both early and late stages of sexual development, including gametogenesis. Our data suggest that SRY and MatA are both structurally and functionally related and conserved in regulating sexual processes. The fundamental mechanisms driving evolution of the genetic pathways underlying sex determination, sex chromosomes and sexual reproduction in eukaryotes appear similar.

Suggested Citation

  • Wioletta Czaja & Karen Y. Miller & Michael K. Skinner & Bruce L. Miller, 2014. "Structural and functional conservation of fungal MatA and human SRY sex-determining proteins," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 5(1), pages 1-6, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:5:y:2014:i:1:d:10.1038_ncomms6434
    DOI: 10.1038/ncomms6434
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