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New perspectives on mate choice and the MHC
1Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, London, UK. w.jordan@ucl.ac.uk
Heredity
|September 29, 1998
Summary
Animals, including humans, may choose mates based on their immune system genes (Major Histocompatibility Complex - MHC). This preference for dissimilar MHC genes can promote genetic diversity in populations.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary biology
- Behavioral ecology
- Immunogenetics
Background:
- Mate choice is crucial for sexual selection and reproductive success.
- The Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) plays a key role in immune function.
- Previous studies in mice suggested MHC influences mate selection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and significance of MHC-based mate choice in vertebrates beyond mice.
- To explore the potential role of MHC-dissimilarity in maintaining population genetic diversity.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing studies on mate choice and MHC in various vertebrate species.
- Analysis of data on mating preferences and MHC genotype similarity/dissimilarity.
- Consideration of ecological and social factors influencing mating systems.
Main Results:
- MHC-based mate choice is observed in diverse vertebrate species, including humans.
- A general preference for MHC-dissimilar mates (MHC-disassortative mating) is frequently reported.
- MHC-disassortative mating may contribute to the maintenance of MHC and overall genome diversity.
Conclusions:
- MHC-based mate choice is a widespread phenomenon in vertebrates.
- Preference for MHC-dissimilar mates can be an adaptive strategy for enhancing offspring immunocompetence and population diversity.
- The strength and direction of MHC preference can be influenced by species-specific factors and individual characteristics.