| Summary: | GPI-anchored proteins display very diverse biological (biochemical and immunological) functions. An in silico analysis has revealed that the genome of <i>Aspergillus fumigatus</i> contains 86 genes coding for putative GPI-anchored proteins (GPI-APs). Past research has demonstrated the involvement of GPI-APs in cell wall remodeling, virulence, and adhesion. We analyzed a new GPI-anchored protein called SwgA. We showed that this protein is mainly present in the <i>Clavati</i> of <i>Aspergillus</i> and is absent from yeasts and other molds. The protein, localized in the membrane of <i>A. fumigatus</i>, is involved in germination, growth, and morphogenesis, and is associated with nitrogen metabolism and thermosensitivity. <i>swgA</i> is controlled by the nitrogen regulator AreA. This current study indicates that GPI-APs have more general functions in fungal metabolism than cell wall biosynthesis.
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