Molecular Characterization of Major Histocompatibility Complex Class II DQB and DRB Genes in Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus and T. aduncus) from the Western Pacific

characterization of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II DQB and DRB genes in bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus and T. aduncus) from the western Pacific. Zoological Studies 46(6): xxx-xxx. Variability of the major histocompatibility complex is very suitable for investigating a wide range of open questions in evolutionary ecology and conservation because it reflects evolutionarily relevant and adaptive processes within and between populations. Herein, we present the 1st full-length expressed DQB and DRB gene products in the order Cetacea from 2 species of bottlenose dolphins (genus Tursiops, family Delphinidae) of the western Pacific that differ in their diet, microflora, and habitat. These species might represent a natural model through which we can examine the immunogenetic consequences of different pathogenic and environmental influences on the MHC of mammals. Blood samples from 2 T. aduncus (from Taiwan and Indonesia) and 2 T. truncatus (from Taiwan and Japan) were used for RACE-PCR. The presence of 1 DQB locus and 2 DRB loci in this genus was revealed. The presence of Tutr-DQB, Tuad-DRB, and Tutr-DRB suggests a functional role for these molecules in pathogen-specific immun