A Putative Zn(II)Cys-Type Transcription Factor FpUme18 Is Required for Development, Conidiation, Cell Wall Integrity, Endocytosis and Full Virulence in .

is one of the major fungal pathogens that cause crown rot (FCR) worldwide and can lead to a substantially reduced grain yield and quality. Transcription factors play an important role in regulating growth and pathogenicity in plant pathogens. In this study, we identified a putative Zn(II)Cys fungal-type domain-containing transcription factor and named it FpUme18. The expression of was induced during the infection of wheat by . The deletion mutant showed defects in growth, conidial production, and conidial germination. In the responses to the cell wall, salt and oxidative stresses, the mutant inhibited the rate of mycelial growth at a higher rate compared with the wild type. The staining of conidia and mycelia with lipophilic dye FM4-64 revealed a delay in endocytosis when was deleted. also positively regulated the expression of phospholipid-related synthesis genes. The deletion of attenuated the pathogenicity of wheat coleoptiles. also participated in the production of the DON toxin by regulating the expression of genes. Collectively, FpUme18 is required for vegetative growth, conidiation, stress response, endocytosis, and full virulence in .