Molecular characterization of a G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) of Aspergillus fumigatus

Aspergillus fumigatus is an opportunistic fungus with potential lethality. Due to the small size of their conidia, the lungs are easily reached. Amidst the temperature, the fungus germinates and can cause damage to the host. Immunocompromised individuals are potential hosts as the immune system is unable to eliminate it in the early stages of infection and become victims of aspergillosis. Through signal transduction pathways, opportunistic fungi like A. fumigatus perceive the environment, modulate their metabolism in order to evade the host's immune system. GPCRs are examples of signal transducer pathways with at least 15 probable GPCRs identified in A. fumigatus, which have already been identified as likely pheromone and cAMP receptors and carbon and nitrogen sensors. Recently, our laboratory characterized GprM as a modulator of the MpkA and MpkB pathway, pathways that may show mechanisms of A. fumigatus virulence. It has been observed that GprM interferes with the production of DHN-melanin, responsible for preventing the immune system from recognizing the fungus and triggering an immune response. Therefore, elucidating how GprM influences the MAP kinase pathway and the clusters of genes involved in the synthesis of DHN-melanin will provide insight into the virulence mechanisms of Aspergillus fumigatus, which can benefit immunocompromised patients.