Recombinant SS1G_10997 corresponds to the eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 subunit K (eIF3k), a critical component of the eIF3 complex, which regulates mRNA recruitment, ribosomal subunit assembly, and start codon recognition during protein synthesis . This recombinant variant is expressed in a baculovirus system, ensuring proper post-translational modifications and functionality .
UniProt ID: A7F080
Gene Name: SS1G_10997
Alternative Names: eIF3k, eIF-3 p25
The full-length protein (245 amino acids) includes conserved domains critical for interaction with the 40S ribosomal subunit and other eIF3 components . The N-terminal region harbors motifs essential for ribosome binding, while the C-terminus mediates interactions with eIF3 subunits .
eIF3k facilitates multiple steps in translation initiation:
Ribosome Binding: Prevents premature 60S subunit attachment to the 43S pre-initiation complex .
mRNA Recruitment: Collaborates with eIF4F to load mRNA onto the 40S subunit .
Start Codon Recognition: Enhances scanning accuracy for AUG initiation codons .
In S. sclerotiorum, eIF3k is hypothesized to regulate virulence by modulating the translation of pathogenicity factors, though direct evidence remains under investigation .
Host-Pathogen Interactions: Used to dissect how translational control influences fungal virulence and host adaptation .
RNA Interference (RNAi): Serves as a target for RNAi-based fungicides, such as spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS) to combat white mold .
Genomic studies highlight eIF3k’s conservation across fungi, plants, and mammals, with structural variations linked to species-specific translational regulation .
KEGG: ssl:SS1G_10997
STRING: 5180.EDN95122