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.A mutation in the KIT-gene is associated with a white spotting pattern in German Shepherd Dogs, this pattern is also called Panda White Spotting. The mutation is very recent, it appeared spontaneously in a female born in 2000. The gene for white-spotting is known as the S-locus (MITF-Gene), however this mutation in the German Shepherd dogs is in a different gene then the mutation causing white spotting in other dog breeds. The mutation causes white markings on the face, limbs, belly, neck, and tip of the tail, with the white being concentrated toward the front of the dog, similar to the irish spotting pattern. The amount of white can vary from dog to dog. The mutation that causes the Panda White pattern in German Shepherd dogs is in homozygous state (two copies of the mutation) considered embryonic lethal as no live dogs with the pattern and with two copies of the mutation have been observed. This means that pups that are homozygous for the Panda mutation do not develop in the uterus and are reabsorbed very early in the development process. Dogs that are heterozygous (one copy of the mutation) do not have any health defects associated with the Panda pattern. The Coat Colour Panda White Spotting test (H354) tests for the genetic status of the KIT-gene. This gene has two variants (alleles), P and N. The allele P is dominant. One copy of the P allele results in dogs with the Panda white pattern. Two copies of the P allele result in early embryonic death. The allele N does have no effect on the coat colour.
Test specific information
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
This DNA test is available for the following breeds: German Shepherd, Belgian Shepherd, Dutch Shepherd Dog.
Sample type
For this DNA test we accept the following materials: Blood EDTA, Blood Heparin, Semen, Tissue, Hair. Please contact PharmaDNA if you wish to submit other material as listed.
Result
Coat colours and coat types 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.
