Identification, evolution and expression of a CD36 homolog in the basal chordate amphioxus Branchiostoma japonicum

► The first time to clone a CD36 homolog from amphioxus. ► Amphioxus CD36 homolog represents the primitive form during evolution. ► High expression of BjCD36F-a in the hepatic caecum in amphioxus. ► BjCD36F-a was up-regulated after feeding, LTA or Escherichia coli challenge.