6e6o

Structural highlights

Function

MER1_EUPRA Mating ciliate pheromones (or gamones) are diffusible extracellular communication signals that distinguish different intraspecific classes of cells commonly referred to as 'mating types'. They prepare the latter for conjugation by changing their cell surface properties. The membrane-bound form promotes inter-cellular communication and adhesion for mating pair formation and may act as binding site for the secreted form.