Tubulin (fungal)

Fungal tubulin is a cytoskeletal protein that forms the structural backbone of microtubules in fungi. It typically refers to the α- and β-tubulin isoforms, both highly conserved, that polymerize as heterodimers to form microtubule filaments essential for cell division, intracellular transport, and hyphal growth in filamentous fungi. The microtubule network is critical for mitosis, chromosome segregation, and maintenance of cell shape. Fungal β-tubulin is a prominent drug target for agricultural and clinical antifungal agents, notably benzimidazole class fungicides, which inhibit microtubule polymerization and disrupt fungal growth. Resistance frequently arises through point mutations in the β-tubulin gene. Tubulin's fundamental cellular role, structural conservation, and its susceptibility to selective inhibitors make it a validated and essential therapeutic target in fungicide development, but also necessitate careful management of resistance and toxicity risks[2][5][6][7][8].

Other names

Fungal tubulinFungal β-tubulinFungal α-tubulinTub1 (yeast α-tubulin)Tub2 (yeast β-tubulin)

Inhibition of microtubule polymerization by binding β-tubulin, leading to cell cycle arrest and impaired hyphal growth. Disruption of mitotic spindle formation. Resistance-conferring mutations usually reduce fungicide binding.