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 dilute gene (MLPH gene) is responsible for the intensity of the coat colour by affecting the amount of pigments in the hair shaft. This gene is also known as the D-locus and dilutes all colours. The Coat Colour Dilution test (K760) tests for the genetic status of the D-locus. The D-locus has two variants (alleles). The allele D is dominant and does not have an effect on the coat colour. Only when the cat has two copies of the recessive allele d the coat colour is diluted. The dilution of black results in grey, called blue by cat breeders. Chocolate/brown dilutes into lilac, it is described as dove or light taupe gray, and is sometimes called frost or lavender. Cinnamon dilutes into Fawn, it is described as "coffee and cream" or caramel color. Some cat breeds are fixed for one of the alleles. The Egyptian Mau and Singapura are fixed for the dominant allele D. The breeds Chartreux, Korat and Russian Blue are fixed for the recessive allele d. Most other breeds can have both alleles.
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 25 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: Blood EDTA, Swab, 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
Genetic characteristics are not a disease.
