TY - JOUR
T1 - Major histocompatibility complex locus DRA polymorphism in the endangered Sorraia horse and related breeds
AU - Luís, C.
AU - Cothran, E. G.
AU - Oom, M. M.
AU - Bailey, E.
PY - 2005/2
Y1 - 2005/2
N2 - The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes play well-defined roles in eliciting immune responses and combating infectious diseases. This genetic system is among the most polymorphic. The extent of genetic variation within a population has been directly correlated with fitness for many traits. The MHC class II locus DRA polymorphism was analysed in the endangered Sorraia horse, two other Portuguese and four New World horse breeds considered to be historically close to the Sorraia. Comparison of the Sorraia with other breeds demonstrated less MHC variation among Sorraia horses. If DRA polymorphism provides greater disease resistance, selective breeding to increase MHC polymorphism may increase fitness of this population.
AB - The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes play well-defined roles in eliciting immune responses and combating infectious diseases. This genetic system is among the most polymorphic. The extent of genetic variation within a population has been directly correlated with fitness for many traits. The MHC class II locus DRA polymorphism was analysed in the endangered Sorraia horse, two other Portuguese and four New World horse breeds considered to be historically close to the Sorraia. Comparison of the Sorraia with other breeds demonstrated less MHC variation among Sorraia horses. If DRA polymorphism provides greater disease resistance, selective breeding to increase MHC polymorphism may increase fitness of this population.
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U2 - 10.1111/j.1439-0388.2004.00485.x
DO - 10.1111/j.1439-0388.2004.00485.x
M3 - Article
C2 - 16130491
AN - SCOPUS:13844313129
SN - 0931-2668
VL - 122
SP - 69
EP - 72
JO - Journal of Animal Breeding and Genetics
JF - Journal of Animal Breeding and Genetics
IS - 1
ER -
