A team of scientists has cracked the code behind the vibrant orange coats of certain cats. After decades of research, they’ve pinpointed the genetic mutation responsible for this unique trait. The discovery was made by two separate teams from Kyushu University in Japan and Stanford University in the US.
The research reveals that the orange coloration is linked to a specific gene called ARHGAP36. This gene is responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that determines skin, hair, and eye color. When a particular section of the ARHGAP36 gene is missing, it leads to an overproduction of a lighter pigment, resulting in the characteristic orange color.
Why Male Cats Are More Likely to Be Orange
The study found that the genetic mutation is located on the X chromosome. Male mammals, including cats, have one X and one Y chromosome, whereas females have two X chromosomes. As a result, males are more likely to display the orange coloration because they have only one X chromosome. If that chromosome has the mutation, they’ll express the trait.
Female cats, on the other hand, need to inherit two copies of the mutated gene (one from each X chromosome) to display the orange color. If they inherit only one copy, they may exhibit a mix of orange and other colors due to a process called X-chromosome inactivation. This is when one of the two X chromosomes is randomly silenced in each cell during development, resulting in a patchwork of different colors.
Implications for Feline Health
The researchers hope that their findings will help shed light on potential health risks associated with the genetic mutation. By understanding the underlying genetics, they may be able to identify any correlations between the orange coloration and specific health issues.
The discovery was made possible through the collaboration of cat owners who contributed to the research by providing DNA samples from their pets. The study analyzed the DNA of dozens of cats, both orange and non-orange, to identify the genetic variation responsible for the distinctive coat color.
The research was reported by the BBC.