Hsp70 in Fungi: Evolution, Function and Vaccine Candidate

Abstract

In fungal system, Hsp70 protein being highly conserved in nature has played a major role in various stress conditions. Genes encoding for Hsp70 proteins in fungi are highly conserved. Hsp70 protein performs chaperone dependent or independent function, essential for growth and morphogenesis of fungi. Functional distinction of Hsp70 protein conjointly depends on the prevalence of Hsp70 in numerous cellular compartments. Fungal Hsp70 protein is involved in protein aggregation, folding as well as in degradation of nascent polypeptide. Additionally, Hsp70 protein has a vital role in the formation of prions in case of yeasts. Fungi showed expression of hsp70 mRNA during interaction with plant. Also, fungal hsp70 showed expression in human during various infections, and may provide lead as a potential bio-marker for disease conditions. This chapter summarizes our present knowledge on fungal Hsp70 proteins and their role in morphogenesis, stress responses and a potential candidate for vaccine.