In this study, the nucleotide sequence of coding region of alpha A-globin gene of domestic pigeon (Columba livia) and Eurasian Collared-Dove (Streptopelia decaocto) was compared. Three homing pigeons (with good racing performance), three non-homing pigeons (King, Strasser and Fantail) and one Eurasian Collared-Dove were included in this study. Total RNA was isolated from whole blood samples. The coding region of alpha A-globin gene was amplified using RT-PCR method. PCR products were sequenced and compared using BLAST^®2. No differences in nucleotide sequences between homing and non-homing pigeons were observed. Some nucleotide substitutions (in eleven positions) between Domestic Pigeon and Eurasian Collared-Dove were observed, which is quite surprising when filogenetically close species are considered.

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