MHC class I allele characterization in Indonesian cynomolgus macaques

Abstract

There has recently been increased interest in the use of cynomolgus macaques for the study of infectious diseases. However, little focus has been given to studying the immunogenetics of these animals. To improve researcher’s understanding and utilization of these model organisms, we characterized 48 full length MHC (Major Histocompability Complex) alleles in Indonesian cynomolgus macaques via cloning and sequencing. Furthermore, we found that three of these alleles were originally found in cynomolgus macaques of Mauritian origin, supporting the hypothesis that Mauritian animals originally came from Indonesia. The Mauritian alleles, Mafa-B*4501,Mafa-B*5101, and Mafa-B*1201 present in 19%, 7% and 4% of our cohort respectively according to PCRSSP results.