Hsp70 function and polymorphism, its implications for mollusk aquaculture: a review

Hsp70 proteins are widely found through several species, and they are considered among the most conservative proteins in nature, in both their sequence and function. They play an important role in the response mechanism to several different kinds of stress such as temperature and pathogens among others. In some species, the variations in the sequence of the Hsp70 gene result in intra-specific differential expression, and therefore in differences in thermo-tolerance of individuals as well as other productive characteristics. The study of the potential impact of the Hsp70 gene polymorphisms represents a field of study that could greatly help the mollusk farming industry.