IPD project

IPD project provides a curated repository in the Immuno Polymorphism Database (IPD) of polymorphic immune-system gene sequences, focusing on hyperpolymorphic major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes and killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) genes to support comparative and functional immunogenetics across human and animal species.

Key Features:

• Curated sequence repository: Centralized collection of sequence data with emphasis on hyperpolymorphic MHC genes and KIR genes.
• Species coverage: Includes sequences from humans, animals important for food security, companion animals, and disease models.
• Curation partnerships: Collaboration with specialist groups and nomenclature committees to maintain standardized allele records.
• Manual validation: Sequences undergo manual review and validation prior to publication.
• Adaptation to sequencing advances: Ongoing redesign to accommodate allele sequencing technologies and novel genomic analysis tools.

Scientific Applications:

• Immunogenetic diversity analysis: Enables study of genetic variability and functional diversity of MHC and KIR gene families.
• Comparative immunogenetics: Supports cross-species comparisons among humans, livestock, companion animals, and disease models.
• Reference allele resources: Provides standardized allele sequences for nomenclature assignment and downstream genomic analyses.

Methodology:

Sequences are curated through collaboration with specialist groups and nomenclature committees and undergo manual review and validation before publication in the database.