The role of MHC in sexual selection – observational and experimental study in three model vertebrate species (2006-2008)

The project aims at evaluating the function of highly variable genes of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) in sexual selection. Specifically, the project focus on: (1) the description of the MHC polymorphism levels in three selected model vertebrates; (2) testing the relationships between MHC genotypes and mate-choice; and (3) testing the predictions of the “good genes” and
“complementary genes” models of sexual selection. A complex approach using methods of behavioural ecology, molecular population genetics, immunology, and immunogenetics will be used. A great advantage of this project is a possibility to compare the role of MHC in mate choice in three vertebrate species (mammal – Mus musculus musculus, bird – Carpodacus erythrinus, and
fish – Rhodeus sericeus) differing in their social system, expression of ornamental traits and mechanism of MHC signalling.