Extensive gene conversion between CCR2 and CCR5 in domestic cat (Felis catus)

Summary Homogenization of the CC-motif chemokine receptors CCR2 and CCR5 of cat (Felis catus) is documented and shown to be the outcome of gene conversion within the feline lineage. All regions were concerned, except the three extracellular protein domains (N- and C-tails, and ECL2), suggesting that structural differentiation at these domains could be related to pathogen susceptibility.