The marsupial major histocompatibility complex

Abstract

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) contains genes that play essential roles in the innate and adaptive immune responses, and has been one of the most studied genomic regions among vertebrates. The marsupial MHC has been intensively investigated in several species, with the genomic organization having been characterized in the gray short-tailed opossum and tammar wallaby, and gene sequences and genetic diversity examined in a number of representative marsupials. These studies have significantly contributed to our understanding of the marsupial immune system, evolution of MHC, and wildlife health and conservation. This review will provide a comprehensive summary of current knowledge on the marsupial MHC.