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. 1996 Aug;7(8):1283–1297. doi: 10.1091/mbc.7.8.1283

The G alpha i homologue gna-1 controls multiple differentiation pathways in Neurospora crassa.

F D Ivey 1, P N Hodge 1, G E Turner 1, K A Borkovich 1
PMCID: PMC275978  PMID: 8856670

Abstract

Heterotrimeric G proteins are components of principal signaling pathways in eukaryotes. In higher organisms, alpha subunits of G proteins have been divided into four families, Gi, Gs, Gq, and G12. We previously identified a G alpha i homologue gna-1 in the filamentous fungus Neurospora crassa. Now we report that deletion of gna-1 leads to multiple phenotypes during the vegetative and sexual cycles in N. crassa. On solid medium, delta gna-1 strains have a slower rate of hyphal apical extension than wild type, a rate that is more pronounced under hyperosmotic conditions or in the presence of a cellophane overlay. delta gna-1 mutants accumulate less mass than wild-type strains, and their mass accumulation is not affected in the same way by exposure to light. delta gna-1 strains are defective in macroconidiation, possessing aerial hyphae that are shorter, contain abnormal swellings, and differentiate adherent macroconidia. During the sexual cycle, delta gna-1 strains are fertile as males. However, the mutants are female-sterile, producing small, aberrant female reproductive structures. After fertilization, delta gna-1 female structures do not enlarge and develop normally, and no sexual spores are produced. Thus, mutation of gna-1 results in sex-specific loss of fertility.

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