Nineteen new microsatellite DNA polymorphisms in pigtailed macaques (Macaca nemestrina)

Area of Science:

• Primatology
• Genetics
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Microsatellite loci are valuable genetic markers for population studies.
• Polymorphic microsatellite loci in baboons (Papio hamadryas) and humans offer potential for use in related primate species.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and characterize polymorphic microsatellite loci in pigtailed macaques (Macaca nemestrina).
• To assess the utility of these loci for paternity testing and other genetic analyses in pigtailed macaques.

Main Methods:

• Screening of microsatellite loci previously identified in baboons and humans in pigtailed macaques.
• Genotyping using radiolabelled PCR primers and standard gel electrophoresis for seven loci.
• Genotyping using fluorescently labelled primers and the ABI 377 system for twelve loci.

Main Results:

• Nineteen polymorphic microsatellite loci were identified in pigtailed macaques, with an average of 9.2 alleles and 0.76 heterozygosity per locus.
• A panel of 12 loci was sufficient to establish paternity in all 15 infant-adult pairs tested.
• No significant correlation was found in allele numbers per locus between pigtailed macaques and baboons, suggesting rapid population genetic processes.

Conclusions:

• The 19 identified microsatellite loci are highly informative for pigtailed macaques.
• These genetic markers are effective for paternity testing in captive populations.
• The loci will be instrumental for future studies on population structure, genetic differentiation, and linkage mapping in Macaca nemestrina.