UDP-glycosyltransferase genes in trypanosomatid genomes have diversified independently to meet the distinct developmental needs of parasite adaptations.

The phylogeny of UGTs confirms that they represent a substantial parasite-specific innovation, which has diversified independently in the distinct trypanosomatid lineages. Nonetheless, developmental regulation has been a strong driver of UGTs diversification in both African trypanosomes and Leishmania.