Genome-wide identification and functional characterization of alpha-amylase genes in Litopenaeus vannamei.

ABSTRACT: Alpha-amylase is a key enzyme involved in carbohydrate hydrolysis and food digestion in animals. However, its molecular characteristics and functions remain poorly understood in the economically important Pacific white shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei. Through comparative genomic analysis, this study revealed that the α-amylase (Amy) gene family has undergone an expansion in arthropods, particularly crustaceans, while retaining highly conserved catalytic domains. Six Amy genes were identified in L. vannamei. Their expression patterns across tissues and developmental stages revealed predominant transcription in the hepatopancreas, with significant upregulation during periods of high energy demand, such as zoeal feeding and pre-molting. Among these genes, Lv-Amy (XP_027225605.1) exhibited the hi

SUBMITTER: Liang J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12798967 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature