A histidine kinase PmHHK1 regulates polar growth, sporulation and cell wall composition in the dimorphic fungus Penicillium marneffei

Penicillium marneffei is an important opportunistic dimorphic fungal pathogen that can cause fatal systemic mycosis in AIDS patients. To find new ways of overcoming infection, candidate virulence associated genes and virulence mechanisms are under intensive investigation. In the present study, we have examined the function of a novel P. marneffei histidine kinase gene (PmHHK1) using dsRNAi mediated by Agrobacterium tumefaciens. Our results showed that reduction of PmHHK1 expression produces significant changes in morphogenesis (including polarized growth), sporulation and cell wall composition. Two-component signaling systems are widespread in the eukaryotes outside the animal kingdom, and could be potential drug targets for antifungal chemotherapy.