MHC Selection in Common Frogs
Author Information
Author(s): Amber G. F. Teacher, Trenton W. J. Garner, Richard A. Nichols
Primary Institution: Queen Mary, University of London
Hypothesis
Are specific MHC supertypes associated with infected and uninfected populations of common frogs?
Conclusion
Common frogs may be adapting to the presence of Ranavirus, as certain MHC supertypes are associated with infection status.
Supporting Evidence
- Certain MHC supertypes are associated with infection status.
- Diseased populations have more similar supertype frequencies than uninfected populations.
- The MHC region was highly variable, indicating potential selection.
- Genetic variation among populations was significantly greater at the MHC locus than at microsatellite loci.
Takeaway
Scientists studied frogs to see if they were getting better at fighting a virus. They found that some frogs had special genes that helped them survive the virus better.
Methodology
The study characterized MHC class I in common frogs and compared populations with and without a history of Ranavirus infection.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the selection of populations based on disease history.
Limitations
The study was limited to specific populations in the South-East of England and may not be generalizable to all frog populations.
Participant Demographics
Frogs were sampled from seven populations with a history of Ranavirus infection and seven without.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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