Meerkats have battled tuberculosis for two decades, and this struggle has left a mark on their immune system evolution. A recent long-term study published in Nature Ecology & Evolution reveals how the major histocompatibility complex (MHC)—a key part of the meerkat immune system—has adapted in response to this persistent disease threat.
Decades of Disease Pressure
Researchers tracked wild meerkat populations for over 20 years, monitoring genetic changes and tuberculosis outbreaks. The findings show that tuberculosis acts as a strong selective force, maintaining a diverse range of MHC genes within the population. This genetic diversity helps meerkats fight off disease, but also demonstrates how ongoing exposure to pathogens can shape evolutionary outcomes in wild animals.
What This Means for Conservation
This research highlights the importance of long-term ecological and genetic monitoring. Understanding how disease shapes wildlife genetics can help conservationists protect vulnerable species and manage disease risks in the wild. The study sets a new standard for exploring the complex relationship between pathogens and host evolution.
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