Evolutionary insights into adaptation of hemocyanins from deep-sea hydrothermal vent shrimps
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Deep-sea hydrothermal vent shrimps inhabit environments with low oxygen levels and may even be exposed to hypoxic conditions. In response, their respiratory pigment, hemocyanin (Hc) may undergo molecular adaptations to enable them to survive in such extreme ecosystems. Therefore, we sampled four Alvinocarididae species from hydrothermal vents in the northern Central Indian Ridge and two types of Hc genes (α and γ) were observed. Employing the branch model, we detected positive selection for the deep-sea hydrothermal vent lineage, including 11 Decapoda species. Furthermore, using the branch-site model, we identified a putative mutant residue (Leu226, Ser377, and Ile390) close to the active site of Hc. Moreover, our results suggested potential molecular docking between two α-type Hc proteins. Thus, this study provides valuable and novel perspectives on the functional significance of the Hc gene in deep-sea hydrothermal vent shrimps, laying the foundation for future investigations in this intriguing area of research. • Hemocyanin genes from four Alvinocarididae shrimps residing in deep-sea hydrothermal vents were obtained and their subtypes (α and γ) were identified. • Amino acids experiencing strong adaptive pressure were detected, and their location in proximity to the active site was identified from the three-dimensional structure. • Two hemocyanin subunits were predicted to form a dimer, within which a positively selected site was identified at the binding site.
Source: Marine Pollution Bulletin
Authors: Hyeongwoo Choi, Ok-Hwan Yu, Seong-il Eyun
Language: English
Subfield: Cell Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Life below water
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,740
OpenAlex ID: W4409258462