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Genetic variability and viral seroconversion in an outcrossing vertebrate population.

Authors :
Gompper, Matthew E.
Monello, Ryan J.
Eggert, Lori S.
Source :
Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences. Jan2011, Vol. 278 Issue 1703, p204-210. 7p.
Publication Year :
2011

Abstract

Inverse correlations between genetic variability and parasitism are important concerns for conservation biologists. We examined correlations between neutral genetic variability and the presence of antibodies to canine distemper virus (CDV) and feline parvovirus (FPV) in a free-ranging population of raccoons. Over 3 years there was a strong relationship between age and seroprevalence rates. Most young animals were seronegative to CDV and FPV, but the oldest age class was greater than 80 per cent seropositive to both viruses. CDV-seropositive animals had greater heterozygosity and lower measures of inbreeding compared with CDV-seronegative animals. This relationship was strongest among the youngest animals and did not occur during a 1 year CDVepidemic. In contrast, FPV-seropositive animals only had significantly lower measures of inbreeding in 1 year, perhaps because FPV-associated mortality is relatively low or primarily occurs among very young individuals that were under-represented in our sampling. These results suggest that even in large outcrossing populations, animals with lower heterozygosity and higher measures of inbreeding are less likely to successfully mount an immune response when challenged by highly pathogenic parasites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
09628452
Volume :
278
Issue :
1703
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
83193620
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2010.1113