In silico studies of copper binding proteins in Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici and understanding their probable roles in pathogenicity

Abstract

Tomato wilt, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (FOL), is responsible for destruction of a large amount of tomato crop yield annually. The control methods thus far have not been very effective in control of the disease. The presented study aims to devise a control measure for FOL wilt through in silico identification and analysis of Cu-binding proteins of F. oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici. Cu-binding proteins are ubiquitously distributed across all three domains of life, serving a wide range of different purposes. It is very likely that some of these are involved in pathogenicity. These proteins could therefore be analyzed for their probable role in pathogenicity. 37 out of total 16,646 proteins in FOL were found to have copper-binding motifs. 3D models, physicochemical properties and subcellular localizations of these proteins obtained through various bioinformatic tools gives us an insight to the probable functions of the proteins. Studies have already established that copper binding proteins are essential in survival of various organisms. With future prospects of studying these proteins further through in silico, in vivo and in vitro analysis, one could establish if or not these proteins have a role in pathogenicity and virulence. The observations obtained thence may provide initial information required for developing techniques required for controlling of FOL infections in tomato plants and ultimately in development of sustainable agriculture.