Molecular characterization of a p38 MAPK from Litopenaeus vannamei and its expression during the molt cycle and following pathogen infection.

Highlights: [•] We characterized a p38 MAPK homolog, Lv-p38, from Litopenaeus vannamei. [•] Lv-p38 was widely present in various tissues of shrimp. [•] The transcription of Lv-p38 in hepatopancreas indicated it involved in pathogen infection. [•] The expression of Lv-p38 in muscle was significantly related to molt stages of shrimp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]