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Haplotype variation, recombination, and gene conversion within the turkey MHC-B locus
Lee D Chaves1, Gretchen M Faile, Stacy B Krueth
1Division of Allergy & Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, National Jewish Health, 1400 Jackson Street, Denver, CO 80206, USA.
Immunogenetics
|May 13, 2010
Summary
This study reveals extensive genetic diversity within the turkey major histocompatibility complex (MHC), identifying numerous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and haplotypes. This genomic resource aids in understanding disease resistance and susceptibility in poultry.
Area of Science:
- Immunogenetics
- Poultry Genomics
Background:
- The Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) significantly influences disease phenotypes.
- Previous MHC polymorphism studies often overlook variation beyond highly polymorphic class I and II loci.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the genetic variation within the turkey MHC-B locus.
- To identify major haplotypes and assess diversity in commercial turkey populations.
Main Methods:
- Resequencing of 15 amplicons across the turkey MHC-B locus in 52 commercial birds.
- Identification and genotyping of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).
- Sequencing of the peptide binding region (PBR) of class IIB loci and analysis of pedigreed families.
Main Results:
- Over 200 SNPs were identified with high polymorphism (1 SNP/70 bp) and heterozygosity.
- Major haplotypes segregating in commercial lines were determined.
- Ten PBR alleles/isotypes were found among the major MHC haplotypes, with evidence of gene conversion and recombination.
Conclusions:
- Commercial turkey flocks possess substantial MHC diversity.
- Genomic resources generated can facilitate studies on the impact of MHC variation on disease resistance and susceptibility in poultry.
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