Selection and trans-species polymorphism of major histocompatibility complex class II genes in the order Crocodylia.

ABSTRACT: Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class II genes encode for molecules that aid in the presentation of antigens to helper T cells. MHC characterisation within and between major vertebrate taxa has shed light on the evolutionary mechanisms shaping the diversity within this genomic region, though little characterisation has been performed within the Order Crocodylia. Here we investigate the extent and effect of selective pressures and trans-species polymorphism on MHC class II α and β evolution among 20 extant species of Crocodylia. Selection detection analyses showed that diversifying selection influenced MHC class II β diversity, whilst diversity within MHC class II α is the result of strong purifying selection. Comparison of translated sequences between species revealed the presence o

SUBMITTER: Jaratlerdsiri W 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3913596 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature