Publication details
Analýza genů hlavního histokompatibilního komplexu u zástupce hrabavých, koroptve polní (Perdix perdix; Galliformes)
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| Year of publication | 2012 |
| Type | Appeared in Conference without Proceedings |
| Citation | |
| Description | Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes are one of the basic components of specific immunity of jawed vertebrates. They encode transmembrane glycoproteins which are (together with T lymphocytes) responsible for recognition of non-self antigens and triggering an adaptive immune response. Structure of MHC genes differs among various groups of vertebrates. Large interspecific differences were found especially in birds, from simple and compact MHC structure (i.e. „the minimal essential MHC“) of chicken (Gallus gallus) to very complex MHC structure in some songbirds (Passeriformes). Even among closely related species (e.g. galliform birds) are these differences, and this fact may have an important evolutionary and ecological consequences. In this study we focused on Grey partridge (Perdix perdix), a species closely related to chicken. We have optimized PCR and SSCP methods and analyzed polymorphic part of MHC class IIB gene (exon 2), which encodes part of MHC glycoprotein responsible for antigen recognition. We described the structure of this MHC region, individual and intra-population variability and historical selection acting on these genes. The associations of MHC genes variability and various factors concerning individual fitness were tested in captive and free-ranging population. Grey partridge displays at least two loci of MHC class IIB genes (from 2 to 4 different sequences of exon 2 per individual), which are both presumably functional. With 12 alleles in 108 individuals, we found moderate levels of intra-population polymorphism. The analyses confirmed strong historical positive selection acting on MHC IIB genes and also minimal two sites of recombination were found. Evidence for association of MHC genes and fitness was found in the captive population, but their role in the free-ranging population is ambiguous. The data gained within this study provide the first information about MHC region in the Grey partridge whose abundance in Europe has rapidly declined during past years. Understanding the mechanisms acting in natural populations might help to preserve this species in our environment. The results contribute to better understanding of evolution of immune genes in birds, especially galliforms. |
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