MHC class II DRB variability in wild black howler monkey (Alouatta pigra), an endangered New World primate. The genes of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) are the most important genetic component of the immune system in vertebrates. Their variability is known to influence a species' ability to recognize and respond to pathogens. Here, we present the first data of the MHC class II DRB exon 2 for the endangered black howler monkey (Alouatta pigra), one of the most northerly distributed platyrrhines. Twenty-one DRB sequences corresponding to four new lineages were identified in 44 individuals through a combination of cloning and reference strand conformational analysis. The detection of up to eight sequences per individual suggests the existence of at least four loci in the species. A relatively low DRB sequence diversity, but similar lineage and loci numbers. were found in A. pigra when compared to other platyrrhines. The reduced DRB allelic diversity in the species appears to be a consequence of drift, reflecting the colonization by its ancestors from South to Central America. Finally, the allelic diversity in the species might be enabling an adequate immune response in wild populations to cope with current pathogens, but it might entail a risk for these populations in case of the emergence of new pathogens.
Argüello-Sánchez, L. E. & García-Feria, L. M. 2014. La genética como herramienta para el estudio y conservación del género Alouatta en México. Acta Zoológica Mexicana (n. s.), 30(2): 387-394. RESUMEN. El estudio de la estructura genética de las poblaciones animales se ha convertido en una herramienta de gran valor en los programas de conservación de especies, particularmente de aquellas que se encuentran en peligro de extinción. Se han utilizado diferentes parámetros poblacionales, tanto en animales cautivos como silvestres, para evaluar su estado genético y su viabilidad a largo plazo. En México, diferentes herramientas genéticas se han usado para estudiar las tres especies de primates no humanos a fin de fundamentar o comprobar diversos aspectos biológicos establecidos a través de observaciones y trabajos de campo. Entre los aspectos de esas especies que se han estudiado desde una perspectiva genética se incluyen varias cuestiones taxonómicas y biogeográficas, la estructura y diferenciación de las poblaciones dentro del área de distribución, los patrones de parentesco y sistemas sociales, entre otros. Estos estudios han conducido a una mejor comprensión de la biología de esos primates, y al desarrollo de estrategias más efectivas para la conservación y supervivencia del género Alouatta en México. Palabras clave: Alouatta palliata, Alouatta pigra, genética, conservación. (2): 387-394. AbSTRACT. The genetic study of animal populations has become a valuable tool in conservation programs, particularly of those species that are endangered. Different population parameters can be determined in both captive and wild animals to assess their genetic status and long-term viability. In Mexico, different genetic tools have been used in the three species of nonhuman primates to assess, reinforce or test different biological aspects that have been determined by observations and field work. Among others, taxonomic and biogeographic aspects, differentiation and population structures, patterns of kinship and social systems have been made to know and understand the biology of the species and direct conservation and survival strategies of the genus Alouatta in Mexico. Argüello
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