Evaluation of Genetic Diversity and Parasite-Mediated Selection of MHC Class I Genes in Emberiza godlewskii (Passeriformes: Emberizidae)

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) is a multi-copy immune gene family in vertebrates. Its genes are highly variable and code for antigen-presenting molecules. Characterization of MHC different species investigating the mechanisms that shape diversity an important goal understanding evolution biological diversity. Here we developed next-generation sequencing (NGS) protocol to genotype class I 326 Godlewski’s buntings (Emberiza godlewskii) sampled Western mountain area Beijing from 2014 2016. A total 184 functional alleles were identified, including both non-classical classical alleles, clustering into nine supertypes. Compared with other passerine birds, number per individual high (mean 16.1 ± 3.3, median 16). In addition, demonstrated signatures historical contemporary selection on genes. Reflecting selection, ten amino acid sites antigen-binding domain showed balancing eight which exhibit polymorphism. terms found specific supertypes nominally associated infection two malaria parasite lineages. These findings indicate action possibly also suggest negative frequency-dependent or fluctuating as possible mechanisms.