Major histocompatibility complex locus DRA polymorphism in the endangered Sorraia horse and related breeds.
The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes play well-defined roles in eliciting immune responses and combating infectious diseases. This genetic system is among the most polymorphic. The extent of genetic variation within a population has been directly correlated with fitness for many traits. The MHC class II locus DRA polymorphism was analysed in the endangered Sorraia horse, two other Portuguese and four New World horse breeds considered to be historically close to the Sorraia. Comparison of the Sorraia with other breeds demonstrated less MHC variation among Sorraia horses. If DRA polymorphism provides greater disease resistance, selective breeding to increase MHC polymorphism may increase fitness of this population.
Luís
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Universidade de Lisboa, Faculdade de Ciências, Departamento de Biologia Animal, Lisboa, Portugal. cmluis@fc.ul.pt
Cothran
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EG
Oom
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Bailey
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D000818:Animals; D005802:Genes, MHC Class II / Q000235:genetics*; D005838:Genotype; D006736:Horses / Q000235:genetics*; D011110:Polymorphism, Genetic; D013045:Species Specificity