Naslov
Extensive polymorphism of the major histocompatibility complex DRA gene in Balkan donkeys: perspectives on selection and genealogy

Autori
Arbanasić, Haidi ; Galov, Ana ; Ambriović-Ristov, Andreja ; Grizelj, Juraj ; Arsenos, Georgios ; Marković, Božidarka ; Dovenski, Toni ; Vince, Silvijo ; Čurik, Ino

Izvornik
Animal genetics (0268-9146) 44 (2013), 6; 711-716

Vrsta, podvrsta i kategorija rada
Radovi u časopisima, članak, znanstveni

Ključne riječi
donkey; DRA locus; genetic diversity; major histocompatibility complex; selection

Sažetak
The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) contains genes important for immune response in mammals, and these genes exhibit high polymorphism and diversity. The DRA gene, a member of the MHC class II family, is highly conserved across a large number of mammalian species, but it displays exceptionally rich sequence variations in Equidae members. We analyzed allelic polymorphism of the DRA locus in 248 donkeys sampled across the Balkan Peninsula (Albania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Macedonia, Greece and Montenegro). Five known alleles and two new alleles were identified. The new allele Eqas-DRA*0601 was found to carry a synonymous mutation, and new allele Eqas-DRA*0701, a non-synonymous mutation. We further analyzed the historical selection and allele genealogy at the DRA locus in equids. Signals of positive selection obtained by various tests were ambiguous. A conservative conclusion is that DRA polymorphism occurred relatively recently and that positive selection has been acting on the DRA locus for a relatively brief period.

Izvorni jezik
Engleski

Znanstvena područja
Biologija, Veterinarska medicina, Poljoprivreda (agronomija)

POVEZANOST RADA