Phylogenetic analysis of the caspase family in bivalves: implications for programmed cell death, immune response and development

Abstract Background Apoptosis is an important process for organism’s innate immune system to respond pathogens, while also allowing cell differentiation and other essential life functions. Caspases are one of the key protease enzymes involved in apoptotic process, however there currently a very limited understanding bivalve caspase diversity function. Results In this work, we investigated presence homologues using combination bioinformatics phylogenetic analyses. We blasted Crassostrea gigas genome identified 35 potential addition already cloned 23 caspases. As such, present information about relationship all caspases relation their homology well-established vertebrate invertebrate Our results reveal unexpected novelty complexity family. Notably, were unable identify direct initiator caspase-9, key-caspase pathway, inflammatory (caspase-1, ? 4 or 5) executioner caspases-3, 6, 7. explored fact that bivalves appear possess several unique groups 2 8. Large expansions caspase-3 like (caspase-3A-C), caspase-3/7 group caspase-3/7-like identified, suggesting unusual roles with implications our response common diseases. Furthermore, assessed gene expression two (Cg2A, Cg8B) four (Cg3A, Cg3B, Cg3C, Cg3/7) C. late-larval development during metamorphosis, indicating varies across different developmental stages. Conclusion analysis provides first overview species new insights into diversity, knowledge can be used further investigations pathogens regulation processes.