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.