Immunogenetic variation and differential pathogen exposure in free-ranging cheetahs across Namibian farmlands.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Genes under selection provide ecologically important information useful for conservation issues. Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I and II genes are essential for the immune defence against pathogens from intracellular (e.g. viruses) and extracellular (e.g. helminths) origins, respectively. Serosurvey studies in Namibian cheetahs (Acinonyx juabuts) revealed higher exposure to viral pathogens in individuals from north-central than east-central regions. Here we examined whether the observed differences in exposure to viruses influence the patterns of genetic variation and differentiation at MHC loci in 88 free-ranging Namibian cheetahs.

Methodology/principal findings

Genetic variation at MHC I and II loci was assessed through single-stranded conformation

SUBMITTER: Castro-Prieto A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3492310 | biostudies-literature | 2012

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature