Testing of cats: Copal coat colour

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Usual turnaround time: 12 business days
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Copal coat colour in Kurilian Bobtail

The E (Extension) locus encodes the melanocyte-stimulating hormone receptor (MC1R). While the dominant E allele causes the synthesis of eumelanin, which is responsible for dark colour (black or brown), the recessive e allele caused by the mutation results in the loss of function of the MC1R gene and produces pheomelanin, which is responsible for light colour (red or yellow).

In the Kurilian bobtail, the amber (orange) colour is caused by mutation c.640_669del in the MC1R gene. The colour develops with age. Kittens are born brown with a warm reddish tone, during the first year of life the coat brightens, and adults show an apricot-red colour (copal).

Inheritance of the mutation is autosomal recessive. This means that the orange colour will appear in individuals who have inherited the mutated e^c allele from both parents (recessive homozygotes). Heterozygotes are carriers of the mutated gene; their coat colour is normal or may show a slightly warm tint.

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References:

Abitbol, M., Gache, V. : Copal, a new MC1R allele in the domestic cat. Anim Genet 50:553-554, 2019. Pubmed reference: 31361350

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Usual turnaround time: 12 business days
1 test price: 56.00 $ without VAT