The Aspergillus flavus rtfA Gene Regulates Plant and Animal Pathogenesis and Secondary Metabolism

Abstract

In this study, the epigenetic global regulator rtfA , which encodes a putative RNA-Pol II transcription elongation factor-like protein, was characterized in the mycotoxigenic and opportunistic pathogen A. flavus . Specifically, its involvement in A. flavus pathogenesis in plant and animal models was studied. Here, we show that rtfA positively regulates A. flavus virulence in both models. Furthermore, rtfA -dependent effects on factors necessary for successful invasion and colonization of host tissue by A. flavus were also assessed. Our study indicates that rtfA plays a role in A. flavus adherence to surfaces, hydrolytic activity, normal cell wall formation, and response to oxidative stress. This study also revealed a profound effect of rtfA on the metabolome of A. flavus , including the production of potent mycotoxins.