Isolation and characterization of the lysozyme-encoding gene from the silkworm Bombyx mori.

We have isolated and characterized a Bombyx mori (Bm) cDNA encoding a lysozyme (Lyz). A 90-bp DNA fragment was amplified by PCR using degenerate oligodeoxyribonucleotide primers derived from the known amino acid (aa) sequence of the Bm Lyz. These PCR fragments were used to screen a fat body cDNA library. A clone containing the complete lys cDNA (1294 bp) was isolated and completely sequenced. The deduced 137-aa sequence showed high homology with other chicken-type Lyz. Bm lys gene expression was constitutive in fat body, cuticular epidermal tissue and at a very low level in hemocytes. This gene expression was up-regulated in fat body, hemocytes and cuticular epidermal tissue following the injection of Gram+ bacteria.