Background
During the last decades, a large number of scientific publications have described the genetic principles of coat colour and coat variation. Coat colours and coat variations are influenced by many hereditary factors. The DNA-tests are based on physiological effects in the body, in which the production and distribution of pigments result in many coat colour variants. In several cases, the coat colour of an animal may only be decided using DNA-tests. The cream dilution gene has an effect on both red and black pigment and dilutes the basic coat colour to lighter coat shades. In several breeds this is considered a desirable trait. The Cream dilution gene is responsible for the palomino, buckskin, smoky black, cremello, perlino and smoky cream coat colours. A horse can also carry mutations for other modifying genes which can further affect its coat colour. The Coat Colour Cream dilution test (P713) tests for the genetic status of the MATP gene. The MATP gene has two variants (alleles). The allele Cr is semi-dominant. One copy of the Cr allele dilutes the coat colour with a single dose, resulting in palomino, buckskin or smoky black. Two copies of the Cr allele dilute the coat colour with a double dose into cremello, perlino or smoky cream. The effect on black pigment might be very subtle. Horses with two copies of the Cr allele are also called ?double-dilutes? or ?blue-eyed cream? and they share a number of characteristics. The eyes are pale blue, paler than the unpigmented blue eyes associated with white color or white markings, and the skin is rosy-pink. The allele N is recessive and does not have an effect on the basic colour.
Test specific information
This test is also included in a Combination Package Coat Colour.
Since 2015, two brands have been developed. CombiGen?
is mainly directed at veterinarian applications, whereas CombiBreed?
is mainly directed at breeders and/or owners.Detailed information about Coat Colours and Coat Variation is presented at www.pharmaDNA.com.
Age
Most coat colours and coat types are usually visible directly after birth.
Throughput
Normally the result can be expected within 15 working days. This turn-around-time starts when both the sample and the fully filled-out and signed submission form have been received.
Location of disease or trait
Genetic factors influencing coat colours and coat types are usually visible on the outside of an individual. Several factors may be hidden by the external variation.
Breed dependence
For this test samples from all breeds are accepted.
Sample type
For this DNA test we accept the following materials: Hair, Semen, Blood EDTA, Blood Heparin, Tissue. Please contact PharmaDNA if you wish to submit other material as listed.
Result
Coat colours are based on many genetic factors. For each factor, a separate test result will be returned.
Inheritance
Various genetic factors influencing coat colour are inherited in a dominant or recessive mode. Coat colours are influenced by a large number of genetic factors.
Severity of Disease
Factors influencing coat colour and coat types are usually not related to diseases.
