Functional diversity within the mitochondrial electron transport chain of plant pathogenic fungi

Abstract

Mitochondrial transfer of electrons from NAD(P)H or FADH2 to the terminal electron acceptor, oxygen, follows a highly complex scheme, involving numerous redox components. Whilst electron transfer has been extensively studied over past decades in mammalian, plant and some fungal species, relatively little is known about the respiratory chain of phytopathogenic fungi. The recent identification of the electron transport chain as a viable target for effective control of fungal infections has contributed to a significantly increased research effort into this area of fungal biochemistry. A striking feature of the electron transport chain within phytopathogenic fungi is the presence of components not found in the classical (mammalian) chain. Recent research has suggested the presence of a plant-like 'alternative' oxidase, internal and external NAD(P)H dehydrogenases, and cyanide-insensitive cytochrome c oxidases. In this mini- review on electron transport in phytopathogenic fungi, the current status of research into the function and expression characteristics of these 'alternative' redox centres is discussed. (C) 2000 Society of Chemical Industry.