ISSN:
1432-1211
Keywords:
Key words Class II
;
Major histocompatibility complex
;
B locus
;
Tapasin
;
Chicken
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Medicine
Notes:
Abstract We have identified the major histocompatibility complex class II β-chain (B-LB) genes present in the B-F/B-L region of the B complex of nine well-characterized lines of chickens and have cleared up much of the confusion concerning numbers and location of B-LB genes in this region. By amplifying DNA sequences between adjacent genes, we found two B-LB genes that lie on either side of Tapasin. The dominantly expressed 'major' B-LB gene in all haplotypes lies between Tapasin and RING-3, and belongs to the B-LBII family of class II β-chain genes. The poorly expressed 'minor' B-LB gene in all haplotypes lies between B-lec1 and Tapasin, and belongs either to the B-LBII family or to the previously unmapped B-LBVI family of class II β-chain genes. The data suggest that the B-LBII and B-LBVI genes are two lineages of B-LB genes and we propose that they all be termed B-LB genes. The location of a third B-LB gene in the B12 haplotype (and possibly other haplotypes as well) has yet to be determined. The structural organization and expression of the class II β-chain genes in the B-F/B-L region is similar to that of chicken class I (B-F) genes, one functional result of which is differential resistance to disease and response to vaccines.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s002510050022
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