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Protochordate allorecognition is controlled by a MHC-like gene system

Nature volume 295, pages 499–502 (1982)Cite this article

Abstract

Colonial tunicates, unlike vertebrates, undergo transplantation in nature. Rejection or acceptance between colonies of Botryllus is controlled by a single gene locus with multiple alleles. The same genetic region apparently maintains this polymorphism by preventing fertilization between gametes sharing alleles. The Botryllus histocompatibility system may reflect the original adaptive function of ancestral MHC genes.

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Author information

Author notes

  1. L. A. West

    Present address: Department of Zoology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, 97331, USA

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, 94305, USA

    V. L. Scofield, J. M. Schlumpberger, L. A. West & I. L. Weissman

  2. Hopkins Marine Station of Stanford University, Pacific Grove, California, 93950, USA

    V. L. Scofield, J. M. Schlumpberger, L. A. West & I. L. Weissman

Authors
  1. V. L. Scofield
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  2. J. M. Schlumpberger
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  3. L. A. West
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  4. I. L. Weissman
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Scofield, V., Schlumpberger, J., West, L. et al. Protochordate allorecognition is controlled by a MHC-like gene system. Nature 295, 499–502 (1982). https://doi.org/10.1038/295499a0

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