Evidence for Two Linked Loci Controlling the Serologically Defined Leukocyte Antigens of Chimpanzees (ChL‐A)*

Abstract

Eleven serologically defined (SD) leukocyte specificities of chimpanzees are described. The results of a limited population analysis of unrelated animals and of family studies were compatible with genetic control of those specificities by alleles of two different loci. Close linkage between these loci, although not formally proved, is likely on the basis of the segregation patterns of the specificities in the families. Serological similarities between specificities of the first and second series of chimpanzees and those of the LA and FOUR series of the human HL‐A complex (respectively) lend support to the assumption that gene products of two linked SD loci are identified as belonging to the chimpanzee's major histocompatibility complex, ChL‐A.