Genome-wide analysis reveals the evolutionary history of TAG intracellular lipases and their roles in different molting stages of Decapods

Abstract

Intracellular lipases can be broadly divided into two categories: neutral lipases and acid lipases. Adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL), hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL), and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) are three key neutral lipases responsible for the hydrolysis of triacylglycerol (TAG) in lipid droplets (LDs). Although these three TAG intracellular lipase genes have been identified and characterized in multiple model species, their evolutionary history remains largely unknown. For the TAG intracellular lipase genes in Decapoda, there is also a large knowledge gap. Thus, in this study, we performed a genome-wide identification and investigation of TAG intracellular lipase genes in Decapoda and outgroups, analyzing their phylogenetics, structural features, conserved motifs, and expression patterns. In total, 22 ATGL genes, 23 HSL genes and 21 MAGL genes were identified in 17 selected species. HSL is the oldest and most conserved gene to exist in any species. Furthermore, RNA-seq analysis was conducted on two representative Decapod species, Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) and swimming crab (Portunus trituberculatus), which represent freshwater and marine environments, respectively. The analysis revealed a positive correlation between the expression levels of TAG intracellular lipase genes and the energy demand during different molting stages. Overall, the results of this study provide valuable insights into the evolutionary history of TAG intracellular lipase genes, which could enhance our understanding for the role of these genes during key physiological processes of Decapods.