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Pharmacologic Induction of Epidermal Melanin and Protection Against Sunburn in a Humanized Mouse Model
Published on: September 7, 2013
Specifying and sustaining pigmentation patterns in domestic and wild cats
Christopher B Kaelin1, Xiao Xu, Lewis Z Hong
1HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, Huntsville, AL 35806, USA.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|September 22, 2012
Summary
Scientists discovered the Transmembrane aminopeptidase Q (Taqpep) gene is key to feline coat patterns, including the king cheetah. This gene, along with Endothelin3 (Edn3), explains diverse cat markings through a two-stage developmental process.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Developmental Biology
- Zoology
Background:
- Feline coat patterns exhibit diverse yet periodic variations.
- Domestic cat tabby patterns suggest a conserved genetic mechanism influenced by selection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the genetic basis of tabby pattern variation in domestic cats.
- To investigate the role of identified genes in coat pattern diversity across 31 felid species.
- To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying feline coat pattern development.
Main Methods:
- Gene identification and sequencing in domestic cats.
- Comparative genomic analysis across 31 felid species.
- Histologic, genomic expression, and transgenic mouse studies.
- Analysis of Endothelin3 (Edn3) expression patterns.
Main Results:
- Transmembrane aminopeptidase Q (Taqpep) identified as the gene responsible for tabby patterns in domestic cats.
- Taqpep was also identified as the cause of the king cheetah's unique blotchy and striped phenotype.
- Paracrine expression of Endothelin3 (Edn3) was found to coordinate localized color differences.
Conclusions:
- A two-stage model for feline coat pattern development is proposed.
- Taqpep establishes a periodic pre-pattern during skin development.
- Differential Edn3 expression subsequently implements the pattern, explaining diverse feline coloration.
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