Features and functions of covalently linked proteins in fungal cell walls

Fungal Genet Biol. 2005 Aug;42(8):657-75. doi: 10.1016/j.fgb.2005.04.002.

Abstract

The cell walls of many ascomycetous yeasts consist of an internal network of stress-bearing polysaccharides, which serve as a scaffold for a dense external layer of glycoproteins. GPI-modified proteins are the most abundant cell wall proteins and often display a common organization. Their C-terminus can link them covalently to the polysaccharide network, they possess an internal serine- and threonine-rich spacer domain, and the N-terminal region contains a functional domain. Other proteins bind to the polysaccharide network through a mild-alkali-sensitive linkage. Many cell wall proteins are carbohydrate/glycan-modifying enzymes; adhesion proteins are prominent; proteins involved in iron uptake are present, and also specialized proteins that probably help the fungus to survive in its natural environment. The protein composition of the cell wall depends on environmental conditions and developmental stage. We present evidence that the cell wall of mycelial species of the Ascomycotina is similarly organized and contains glycoproteins with comparable functions.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Amino Acid Sequence
  • Ascomycota / metabolism*
  • Cell Wall / metabolism
  • Cell Wall / ultrastructure
  • Fungal Proteins / chemistry
  • Fungal Proteins / physiology*
  • Membrane Glycoproteins / chemistry
  • Membrane Glycoproteins / physiology*
  • Molecular Sequence Data
  • Mycelium / metabolism
  • Protein Processing, Post-Translational

Substances

  • Fungal Proteins
  • Membrane Glycoproteins