Caprine PRNP polymorphisms at codons 171, 211, 222 and 240 in a Greek herd and their association with classical scrapie

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Abstract
The association between PRNP variation and scrapie incidence was investigated in a highly affected Greek goat herd. Four mutations were identified at codons 171Q/R, 211R/Q, 222Q/K and 240P/S. Lysine at codon 222 was found to be associated with the protection from natural scrapie (P=0.0111). Glutamine at codon 211 was observed in eight animals, all of them being scrapie-negative, indicating a possible protective role of this polymorphism although statistical analysis failed to support it (P=0.1074). A positive association (P=0.0457) between scrapie-affected goats and the wild-type Q171R211Q222S240 allele is presented for the first time. In addition, a novel R171RQS allele, which is identical to the A136R154R171 allele that has been associated with resistance to classical scrapie in sheep, was observed in low frequency. Resistant alleles that include K222 and Q211 are absent or rare in sheep and can provide the basis for the development of a feasible breeding programme for scrapie eradication in goats.