Polymorphisms in the HLA locus arise primarily through which type of genetic event?

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Polymorphisms in the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) locus, which encodes major histocompatibility complex proteins, primarily arise through gene conversion events. Gene conversion is a non-reciprocal exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during meiosis. This process can occur within the HLA locus, leading to the creation of new variants of HLA genes that can differentiate individuals in terms of their immune response to infections and transplants. Translocations, deletions, and missense mutations are less likely to generate the high levels of polymorphic diversity observed in the HLA locus.

Polymorphisms in the HLA Locus Arise Primarily Through Which Type