Genome-Wide Identification, Gene Duplication, and Expression Pattern of Gene Family in .

BACKGROUND

The Niemann-Pick C2 () gene family plays an important role in olfactory communication, immune response, and the recognition of host plants associated with environmental adaptation for insects.

METHODS

In this study, we conducted a genomic analysis of the structural characteristics and physicochemical properties of the genes of eleven butterfly species available, focusing on the alpine species, especially , to investigate their duplication and expression patterns.

RESULTS

Our results indicate that a significant expansion of genes was detected in compared to other butterflies; in addition, the expansion of these unevenly distributed chromosome genes was shaped by tandem duplication mediated by transposons. Furthermore, the genes had relatively higher expression in antennae and other head tissues. These facts were verified by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that the expansion of genes may have contributed to the local adaptation of during its dispersal 'out of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau', although further functional tests are needed to confirm their specific role in this adaptive process.