Association of Ovar‐DRB1 alleles with innate immune responses in sheep

Abstract

Background Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) is the best characterised genetic region associated with adaptive immune responses, including humoral and cell‐mediated immunities. Objectives In this study, the association of MHC class II alleles with inflammatory cytokines and acute‐phase proteins was evaluated in sheep population. Methods Allelic diversity of second exon of ovine DRB1 locus (Ovar‐DRB1.2) was determined in 100 indigenous Iranian Lori‐Bakhtiari fat‐tailed sheep using restriction fragment length polymorphism and direct sequencing methods. The association of DRB1.2 alleles with inflammatory cytokines (interleukin‐1β, IL‐1β; IL‐6 and tumour necrosis factor‐α) and acute‐phase proteins (serum amyloid A, alpha‐1‐acid glycoprotein and haptoglobin) was examined using generalised linear model and multivariate regression analysis. Results Seven distinct RsaI restriction patterns and fourteen alleles were identified in this population. Allele DRB1*2101 showed a negative influence on the IL‐6 response and was associated with lower serum level of IL‐6. DRB1.2 heterozygous individuals also showed higher haptoglobin concentration than homozygotes. Conclusions These results provide additional support for the association between Ovar‐DRB1 alleles and regulation of immune responses in sheep population. Description of MHC polymorphism and its role in the controlling of immune responses will increase our understanding of host–pathogen interactions, and ultimately facilitate the selection of disease‐resistant flocks in genetic breeding programs.

Exploring genetic diversity and variation of Ovar-DRB1 gene in Sudan Desert Sheep using targeted next-generation sequencing

“…This process is pivotal for effective pathogen recognition and the subsequent generation of immune responses tailored to combat a wide range of infectious agents [ 34 ]. Genetic diversity within MHC II genes, including Ovar-DRB1 in sheep, is particularly important as it directly influences the repertoire of antigens that can be presented to T-cells, enabling a more comprehensive immune response [ 2 , 35 , 36 ]. In sheep, MHC II gene variation has been associated with differences in immune responsiveness and disease susceptibility.…”

“…Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) genes play a crucial role in immune responses and disease resistance in various species, including sheep. Among the MHC genes, Ovar-DRB1 has garnered significant attention due to its involvement in antigen presentation and recognition [ 1 , 2 ].Understanding the genetic diversity and variation within the Ovar-DRB1 gene is essential for breeding programs and conservation efforts in sheep populations [ 3 ].…”