Effects of geographic origin on captive Macaca mulatta mitochondrial DNA variation

Area of Science:

• Primate genetics
• Mitochondrial DNA analysis
• Population genetics

Background:

• Rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) are vital models in biomedical research.
• Understanding genetic diversity in captive populations is crucial for research integrity.
• Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is a key marker for evolutionary and population studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize genetic diversity among captive rhesus macaques from different geographic origins.
• To investigate the population structure and matrilineal lineages using mitochondrial rRNA genes.
• To assess the utility of mtDNA haplotypes for managing captive breeding groups.

Main Methods:

• Partial sequencing of mitochondrial 12S and 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes.
• Analysis of nested clades and haplotypes to infer genetic subdivision.
• Comparative analysis of genetic heterogeneity between Indian and Chinese rhesus macaque populations.

Main Results:

• Significant genetic subdivision was identified, with distinct Indian and Chinese matrilineages.
• Country of origin accounted for approximately 90% of the genetic heterogeneity between Indian and Chinese macaques.
• Macaques from China exhibited greater mtDNA diversity than those from India, aligning with subspecies diversity.

Conclusions:

• Mitochondrial DNA haplotypes effectively differentiate rhesus macaque populations based on geographic origin.
• Genetic diversity within captive populations is influenced by heterogeneous origins, founder effects, and breeding isolation.
• mtDNA analysis is valuable for genetically defining, preserving diversity, and confirming origins of captive rhesus macaque groups for research.