Our data suggest that SLC11A1 gene polymorphisms might have a relevant role in the pathology of leishmaniasis, directing towards susceptibility outcome of this disease in residents of an endemic area.
They lie 30-260 kb upstream of SLC11A1, a gene known primarily for its role in regulating macrophage activation, resistance to leishmaniasis, and wound healing responses in mice, but also known to be expressed in PMN, macrophages and dendritic cells.
Studies of an inbred strain of mice with increased susceptibility to mycobacteria, salmonella and leishmania infections led to the identification of the natural resistance-associated macrophage protein gene (Nramp1).
Our aims were to sequence and map the canine Slc11a1 gene and to identify mutations that may be associated with resistance or susceptibility to Leishmania infection.