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 distribution of melanin-containing cells. This gene is also known as the D-Locus and dilutes all colours. Besides the hair colour also the colour of the nose is diluted and the colour of the eyes lightens to amber. The Coat Colour D-Locus Improved (MLPH) test (H847) 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 dog has two copies of the recessive allele d the coat colour is diluted. The dilution of black results in grey, also called blue or charcoal. The coat ranges from silver to almost black, but all have a blue nose. Chocolate/brown/liver dilutes into lilac/light tan/Isabella, their noses vary from pink, liver to isabella. Red/yellow/cream dilutes into champagne. In some breeds another, yet unidentified, mutation is present that causes coat colour dilution. This unidentified mutation is known to occur in Doberman Pinscher, French Bulldog, Italian Greyhound, Chow Chow and Shar-Pei.
Test specific information
This test is also included in a Combination Package.
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
For this test samples from all breeds are accepted.
Sample type
For this DNA test we accept the following materials: Blood EDTA, Blood Heparin, Semen, Swab, Tissue. 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.
