The evolutionary history of IGKC in mammals reveals ancient duplications and remarkable divergence in lagomorphs

Our study represents a significant contribution to the knowledge of the IGKC gene, substantially expanding on information available in IMGT. It highlights complex evolutionary trajectories, especially in lagomorphs. The presence of N-glycosylated sites suggests potential effects on antigen binding, stability, or half-life. The coexistence of purifying and episodic positive selection points to a balance between structural conservation and lineage-specific functional diversification.