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Odour signals major histocompatibility complex genotype in an Old World monkey

Setchell, J.M.; Vaglio, S.; Abbott, K.M.; Moggi-Cecchi, J.; Boscaro, F.; Pieraccini, G.; Knapp, L.A.

Odour signals major histocompatibility complex genotype in an Old World monkey Thumbnail


Authors

S. Vaglio

K.M. Abbott

J. Moggi-Cecchi

F. Boscaro

G. Pieraccini

L.A. Knapp



Abstract

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) is an extraordinarily diverse cluster of genes that play a key role in the immune system. MHC gene products are also found in various body secretions, leading to the suggestion that MHC genotypes are linked to unique individual odourtypes that animals use to assess the suitability of other individuals as potential mates or social partners. We investigated the relationship between chemical odour profiles and genotype in a large, naturally reproducing population of mandrills, using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and MHC genotyping. Odour profiles were not linked to the possession of particular MHC supertypes. Sex influenced some measures of odour diversity and dominance rank influenced some measures of odour diversity in males, but not in females. Odour similarity was strongly related to similarity at the MHC, and, in some cases, to pedigree relatedness. Our results suggest that odour provides both a cue of individual genetic quality and information against which the receiver can compare its own genotype to assess genetic similarity. These findings provide a potential mechanism underlying mate choice for genetic diversity and MHC similarity as well as kin selection.

Citation

Setchell, J., Vaglio, S., Abbott, K., Moggi-Cecchi, J., Boscaro, F., Pieraccini, G., & Knapp, L. (2011). Odour signals major histocompatibility complex genotype in an Old World monkey. Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 278(1703), 274-280. https://doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2010.0571

Journal Article Type Article
Publication Date Jan 1, 2011
Deposit Date Sep 30, 2010
Publicly Available Date Mar 29, 2024
Journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences
Print ISSN 0962-8452
Electronic ISSN 1471-2954
Publisher The Royal Society
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 278
Issue 1703
Pages 274-280
DOI https://doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2010.0571
Keywords Semiochemicals, Olfaction, MHC odourtype, Mate choice, Honest signalling, Kin recognition.

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