Molecular characterization of LvAV in response to white spot syndrome virus infection in the Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei).

•We identified and characterized LvAV a novel C-type Lectin from Litopeneaus vannamei.•LvAV is highly expressed in hepatopancreas of shrimp.•LvAV could play a dual role in shrimp immunity: not only against WSSV infection, but also in facilitating WSSV spread.•LvAV expression patterns after V. parahaemolyticus injection indicated that LvAV may defend against bacteria infection.