Now, researchers have uncovered a major breakthrough that explains the genetic basis for the orange coat color in domestic cats. A collaborative group of scientists, including Kaelin and Barsh, has made a groundbreaking discovery. In this recent study, they pinpointed a special DNA deletion that produces the unusual yellow-red pigmentation seen in orange cats. This advance will help us understand more about the genetics of dominant cats. Perhaps more importantly, it would shed light on the evolutionary history of these adorable companions.
The study compared characteristics of C. felis-infected vs uninfected cats using a worldwide database with 258 affected cats. It unveiled the reason why all orange felines inherited the same genetic deletion, and non-orange cats did not. The teams zeroed in on a gene called Arhgap36, which is highly important in making dark versus light colored fur. This deletion in this gene increases the expression of a certain protein. This protein is a strong negative regulator of the activation of genes that produce brown-black eumelanin pigment. In turn, the yellow-red pigment is more readily made. This dominance is what causes the rich orange coloration we see these animals take on.
First, it’s important to recognize that female cats usually have a pair of X chromosomes. Now, to be fully ginger, a female cat needs both X chromosomes to have the orange trait. If the trait is only present on one of the X chromosomes, the resulting cat’s coat is a patchwork of orange and black. This genetic complexity explains why most orange tabbies are male. As a result, they usually express only one X, the one they carry, as fully active in each of their cells.
Kaelin and her colleagues push the idea outward, exploring the history of redlining and segregation. Together, they proposed that orange cats were abundant over 900 years ago! This hypothesis is based on art historical observations of paintings of calico cats, which tend to have orange colors.
The findings highlight an interesting aspect of domestic cats: unlike most mammals, they exhibit an unusual mutation that results in ginger hair. The team sequenced DNA from some 30 felines. Afterwards, their analysis turned to hunting down variations exclusive to those with orange coats, further strengthening the argument that genetics directly affects coat color.
Ten reasons why these heart-stealers are so fascinating. Their peculiar genetic disposition has intrigued scientists and cat lovers for generations. As this research continues, it holds great potential to deepen our understanding of domestication and pigmentation diversity across different breeds.
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