The larval serum proteins include a family of two immunologically distinct hexameric hemolymph storage proteins or hexamerins that have been found in all insect species. They are synthesized at the last instar larvae stage and are delivered to the storage granules in the fat body and serve as energy and amino acid supply during metamorphosis. (Adapted from FBrf0093594 and FBrf0093616).
Notes on Group
Larval serum protein 1 is a hetero hexamer of three different subunits Lsp1α, Lsp1β and Lsp1γ, while Larval serum protein 2 is a hexamer consisting of identical Lsp2 subunits. (FBrf0093594).
