Characterization of two MHC II genes (DOB, DRB) in white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus)

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) is responsible for detecting and addressing foreign pathogens inside the body. While the general structure of MHC genes is relatively well conserved among mammalian species, it is notably different among ruminants due to a chromosomal inversion that splits MHC type II genes into two subregions (IIa, IIb).