Function
Dehydratase; part of the Pks1 gene cluster that mediates the biosynthesis of an anthraquinone derivative pigment that contributes to conidial pigmentation that provides protection from UV radiation, heat and cold stress (PubMed:28447400). The polyketide synthase Pks1 produces 1-acetyl-2,4,6,8-tetrahydroxy-9,10-anthraquinone though condensation of acetyl-CoA with malonyl-CoA (Probable). The dehydratase EthD and the laccase Mlac1 further convert the anthraquinone derivative into the final conidial pigment (Probable).