Identification and characterization of two chitin synthase genes in African malaria mosquito, Anopheles gambiae

► We identified and characterized two chitin synthase genes (AgCHS1 and AgCHS2) in Anopheles gambiae. ► Both AgCHS1 and AgCHS2 were expressed in egg, larval, pupal and adult stages but AgCHS2 was expressed at low levels. ► AgCHS1 was mainly expressed in the carcass whereas AgCHS2 was expressed in the foregut including cardia and the midgut. ► Immunohistochemical analysis localized the two enzymes in the ommatidia of the compound eyes and other tissues.