Detection of Polymorphisms in the exon 2 region of the DRB3 gene in Naqu yaks

Abstract

In the present study, the second exon of the DRB3 gene of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) from 94 Naqu yaks was amplified and sequenced, and its variation and phylogeny of nucleotides and haplotypes were analyzed. The results showed that 71 single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) were identified, and 147 haplotypes were reconstructed. The average number of nucleotide differences was 16.80965, the nucleotide diversity was 0.05982, and the haplotype diversity was 0.9964. In addition, fewer haplotypes of exon 2 of DRB3 were shared among different ecotype strains, and a large number of privatized haplotypes (93.2%) were observed. Based on the results of the present study, the high genetic diversity of Naqu yaks could reflect their epidemic history and geographical distribution. In addition, the abundant diversity in the MHC region was estimated not only to enhance the current understanding of the status of genetic diversity for the conservation of Naqu yaks but also to improve the relative environmental suitability and disease-resistant breeding of these animals.