A population genetics study of single nucleotide polymorphisms in the interleukin 4 receptor α (IL4RA) gene

Interleukin 4 (IL4) plays a critical role in T helper 2 (Th2) immune responses. Here we report a population genetics study of variation in the gene encoding the alpha -chain of the IL4 receptor (IL4RA) in three ethnic groups: African Americans, European Americans and East Asians. A 2941-bp region spanning exon 12 of IL4RA gene was sequenced in 12 individuals from each group. A total of 24 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified in the combined sample. The genetic variation of the coding region of exon 12 is two to three times higher than in other reported genes. A significant departure from the expectation of evolutionary neutrality was observed, suggesting that natural selection may have influenced the evolution of this gene. We propose a model in which past selection by pathogens contributed to the increasing prevalence of atopic disorders in Western societies.