RESEARCH ARTICLE Characterization of MHC Class II B Polymorphism in Multiple Populations of Wild Gorillas Using Non-Invasive Samples and Next-Generation Sequencing

摘要: Genes encoded by the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) are crucial for recognition and presentation of antigens to immune system. In contrast their closest relatives, chimpanzees humans, much less is known about variation in gorillas at these loci. This study explored exon 2 -DPB1, -DQB1, -DRB genes 46 from four populations while simultaneously evaluating feasibility using fecal samples high-throughput MHC genotyping. By applying strict similarity- frequency-based analysis, we found, despite our modest sample size, a total 18 allelesthathavenotbeendescribedpreviously,therebyillustratingthepotentialforefficientandhighly accurate genotyping non-invasive DNA samples. We emphasize importance controlling multiple potential sources error when this massively parallel short-read sequencing technology PCR products generated low concentration extracts. observed pronounced differences between species, subspecies that consistent with both ancient recent demographic histories experienced gorillas. Am. J. Primatol. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.