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 Pearl dilution gene lightens the coat colour of the horse by diluting the red pigment. A chestnut basic colour is diluted to a pale, uniform apricot colour of body, mane and tail. Skin coloration is also pale. Pearl dilution is also referred to as the 'Barlink Factor.' The Coat Colour Pearl dilution test (P783) tests for the genetic status of the SLC45A2 gene. This gene has two variants (alleles). The allele Prl, causing the Pearl dilution is recessive. This means that only horses with two copies of the Prl allele have a lightened coat, mane and tail, in addition to bright eye colors. The dominant allele N does not have an effect on the basic coat colour.Pearl dilution interacts with Cream dilution to produce pseudo-double dilute phenotypes including pale skin and blue/green eyes. Therefore if a horse has one copy of the Prl allele and Cream dilution (Cr allele) is also present, this results in a pseudo-double dilute, also called pseudo-cremellos or pseudo-smoky cream.A horse can also carry mutations for other modifying genes which can further affect its coat 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 and coat types 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.
