MHC defined flock

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) is the most gene dense region of the mammalian genome and plays an important role in the immune system and autoimmunity. 

The diversity of MHC is important in understanding the immunology diveristy within a population.  With this in mind, Moredun developed, and now maintains, a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) defined sheep flock.  This resource allows for significant advantages in the areas of T cell immunology, analysis of cellular immune mechanisms and vaccine development research in sheep.

The strategy is to utilise this resource and associated cellular and molecular tools to unravel the natural mechanisms of protective immunity to parasitic, bacterial and viral pathogens of sheep.  Such information will allow more informed decisions to be made regarding the approach to vaccine development as well as providing the tools to identify the protective antigens involved in stimulating protective immunity.