Identification and characterization of single nucleotide polymorphisms in the promoter region of bovine IL-8 gene in Iranian native and Holstein cattle

BACKGROUND: IL-8, a proinflammatory cytokine, is a small protein that attracts and activates neutrophils in the early stages of host defense against bacterial invasion. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the promoter region of IL-8 gene can influence this gene transcription process and consequently its role and function. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to identify and analyze SNPs in the promoter region of IL-8 gene in Iranian native and Holstein cattle breeds (Bos Taurus). METHODS: A part of promoter region of IL-8 gene was screened by single strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) method and DNA sequencing. The multiple alignments were carried out for the nucleotide sequences of different SSCP patterns. In silico analysis was conducted to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the promoter region of bovine IL-8 gene was screened, to identify any association with transcription factor binding. RESULTS: A total of 4 distinct SSCP patterns were observed which by determining the nucleotide sequence, 2 SNPs were found at positions -126 and -180. The SNP at position -126 was found only in the native breed. The in silico analysis on location of transcription factors showed that SNPs identified at -126 and -180 created putative binding sites for Ik-2 and Oct-1 transcription factors, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The possible functional role of identified SNPs in this gene activity should be proved using gene expression analysis. Further studies required to evaluate the identified SNPs for disease resistant traits in cattle.