Abstract
The molecules encoded by major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes play an essential role in the adaptive immune response among vertebrates. We investigated the molecular evolution of MHC class I genes in the sable Martes zibellina. We isolated 26 MHC class I sequences, including 12 putatively functional sequences and 14 pseudogene sequences, from 24 individuals from two geographic areas of northeast China. The number of putatively functional sequences found in a single individual ranged from one to five, which might be at least 1–3 loci. We found that both balancing selection and recombination contribute to evolution of MHC class I genes in M. zibellina. In addition, we identified a candidate nonclassical MHC class I lineage in Carnivora, which may have preceded the divergence (about 52–57 Mya) of Caniformia and Feliformia. This may contribute to further understanding of the origin and evolution of nonclassical MHC class I genes. Our study provides important immune information of MHC for M. zibellina, as well as other carnivores.
Highlights
The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) plays a crucial role in the adaptive immune system (Klein, 1986)
Two significant recombination events were detected in the MHC class I sequences of M. zibellina in Recombination Detection Program version 4 (RDP4) program (Table S3)
We identified 12 presumably functional sequences and 14 presumed MHC class I pseudogene sequences
Summary
The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) plays a crucial role in the adaptive immune system (Klein, 1986). The α1 domain and α2 domain are the regions containing ABSs in α chain of MHC class I molecule. The classical MHC class I molecules are encoded in all somatic cells and are responsible primarily for triggering adaptive immune response by presenting endogenously derived peptides to CD8+ cytotoxic T cells Recombination has been considered as an important mechanism, which contributes to the high divergence of MHC class I genes between closely related species and the diversity of MHC genes (Gaigher et al, 2018; Nei & Rooney, 2005; Zhao et al, 2013). The results of this study may provide important immune information for M. zibellina and will contribute to conservation of this species as well as other carnivores
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