Diversity of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and natural killer cell receptor (NKR) genes and their interactions in domestic horses.

The immunogenome is the part of the genome that underlies immune mechanisms and evolves under various selective pressures. Two complex regions of the immunogenome, major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and natural killer cell receptor (NKR) genes, play an important role in the response to selective pressures of pathogens. Their importance is expressed by their genetic polymorphism at the molecular level, and their diversity associated with different types of diseases at the population level.

Newly identified variability of the antigen binding site coding sequences of the equine major histocompatibility complex class I and class II genes.

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) with its class I and II genes plays a crucial role in the immune response to pathogens by presenting oligopeptide antigens to various immune response effector cells. In order to counteract the vast variability of infectious agents, MHC class I and II genes usually retain high levels of SNPs mainly concentrated in the exons encoding the antigen binding sites. The aim of the study was to reveal new variability of selected MHC genes with a special focus on MHC class I physical haplotypes.

Genetic diversity, evolution and selection in the major histocompatibility complex DRB and DQB loci in the family Equidae.

Background: The mammalian Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) is a genetic region containing highly polymorphic genes with immunological functions. MHC class I and class II genes encode antigen-presenting molecules expressed on the cell surface. The MHC class II sub-region contains genes expressed in antigen presenting cells.

Candidate gene molecular markers as tools for analyzing genetic susceptibility to morbillivirus infection in stranded Cetaceans.

Morbilliviruses, such as Cetacean morbillivirus (CeMV) or Phocine distemper virus (PDV), represent a growing threat for marine mammals on both hemispheres. Because free-ranging animal populations strongly rely on natural resistance mechanisms, innate immunity-related genes and virus cell entry receptor genes may represent key factors involved in susceptibility to CeMV in Cetaceans. Using the next generation sequencing technology, we have sequenced 11 candidate genes in two model species, Stenella coeruleoalba and Phocoena phocoena.

Genetic diversity and conservation in a small endangered horse population.

The Old Kladruber horses arose in the 17th century as a breed used for ceremonial purposes. Currently, grey and black coat colour varieties exist as two sub-populations with different recent breeding history. As the population underwent historical bottlenecks and intensive inbreeding, loss of genetic variation is considered as the major threat.