Genetic Organization, Polymorphism, and Function of the Bovine Major Histocompatibility Complex

The history of research on the Bos taurus and Bos indicus (“bovine”) major histocompatibility complex (Mhc) cannot be understood without a general appreciation for the origins of immunogenetics and the discoveries that led to the elucidation of the mouse H-2 complex and the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system. 1 Like HLA, research on the bovine Mhc has deep roots in classical serology and transplantation genetics. The discovery of the Mhc of cattle is attributed to Amorena and Stone, 2 and Spooner and co-workers. 3 The genetic region they and others defined using serological reagents produced by skin transplants and alloimunization was named the bovine lymphocyte antigen (BoLA) system. 4 Workers in the field unanimously agreed to retain the name BoLA rather than Bota 5 because of the long and rich history of research conducted on the Mhc of cattle, and to avoid unnecessary confusion. Among all species studied, the BoLA system ranks next in terms of depth of knowledge compared with HLA and H-2.