Pro-domain processing of fungal effector proteins from plant pathogens

Some secreted proteins and peptides are translated as precursors (pro-proteins/peptides) that require post-translational site-specific proteolysis to generate the mature, active molecule. Pro-protein convertases, a family of serine proteases found in the secretory pathway of fungi (and other eukaryotes), are typically responsible for these cleavage events and target secreted proteins with a wide range of physiologically important functions. We now know that some effec- tor proteins from plant fungal pathogens are processed by pro-protein convertases during secretion and that this is important for effector virulence functions. Recent work suggests that this process is important for the maturation of an expanded set of effector proteins from a broad range of fungal plant pathogens.