Jinya Li , Jing He , Mengyue Chen

Animal Science Research Center, Cuixi Academy of Biotechnology, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China
Author    Correspondence author
International Journal of Molecular Zoology, 2024, Vol. 14, No. 6   doi: 10.5376/ijmz.2024.14.0028
Received: 03 Nov., 2024    Accepted: 05 Dec., 2024    Published: 16 Dec., 2024

This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Li J.Y., He J., and Chen M.Y., 2024, A review of canid immunogenomics: how domestication shaped the canine immune system, International Journal of Molecular Zoology, 14(6): 297-304 (doi: 10.5376/ijmz.2024.14.0026)

This study reviews the genetic basis of immune function in dogs, with a focus on key immune genes such as major histocompatibility complexes (MHC) and toll like receptors (TLRs). The evolutionary changes of immune genes during domestication were examined, and the comparative analysis between domestic dogs and their wild relatives (such as wolves and coyotes) highlighted significant immune genomic variations caused by differences in pathogen exposure and selection pressure. Taking sled dogs as an example, the unique immune adaptation to extreme environments was demonstrated, revealing how selection pressure affects immune gene diversity and pathogen resistance. The development direction of canine immune genomics was reviewed, including emerging technologies, personalized health management, and protection of immune gene diversity in wild dogs. This study emphasizes the importance of immune genome research in advancing our understanding of the impact of dog health, evolutionary biology, and domestication on immune system function.

Canid; Canine immunogenomics; Domestication; Immune system; Major histocompatibility complex (MHC)