Scientists have revealed the genetic mystery of red cats
Why are cats less than cats are red?
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Scientists from Japan and the United States have explored the DNA of red cats and found out that these four -legged lacked a plot, which makes the color lighter.
This « gap » in the genetic code activates the gene responsible for the pigmentation of the skin, eyes and wool, and makes it exactly the same as that of Garfield’s familiar to all.
This is stated in the results of the study, Posted in Current Biology, write BBC and Science News.
”This is a real breakthrough – we found exactly where in DNA is formed red color« , – says Professor Sasaki from Kusya University.
It’s about a gene Arhgap36which is active in cells that produce pigment – melanocytes. Red cats are much more active because they lack DNA areas that usually « inhibits it ».
Without this area, the gene works on full and « turns on » light shades in wool, skin and eyes. This is confirmed by comparing the genetic material of dozens of cats with red and other color.
It’s simple: the ARHGAP36 gene is located on the X chromosome. Males of cats, like men, have only one X chromosome (and one y). That is, one mutation is enough for the cat to be completely red.
Females have two x chromosomes. In order for the cat to become completely ore, the mutation must be in both copies of the gene, and this rarely happens. More often the color is mixed-red or red.
« It explains why Calico and turtle cats are almost always females »– adds Professor Sasaki.
When cat cells begin to divide in the early stages of development, one of the X chromosomes in each of the cells accidentally « switches off ». This leads to a spotting of wool – a kaleidoscope of black and red areas.
The ARHGAP36 gene is active not only in wool, but also in the brain, hormonal glands and other important systems of the body. In humans, it is associated with hair loss and the risk of skin cancer.
Scientists do not exclude that the mutation that affects pigmentation can also change temperament or tendency to certain diseases. But further research is required to confirm this.
