Mapping the Tabby Cat Gene
Author Information
Author(s): Lyons L A, Bailey S J, Baysac K C, Byrns G, Erdman C A, Fretwell N, Froenicke L, Gazlay K W, Geary L A, Grahn J C, Grahn R A, Karere G M, Lipinski M J, Rah H, Ruhe M T, Bach L H
Primary Institution: University of California – Davis
Hypothesis
What is the genetic basis for the Tabby coat markings in domestic cats?
Conclusion
The study identified a significant linkage between the Tabby locus and several markers on feline chromosome B1.
Supporting Evidence
- The study found linkage between the Tabby locus and eight markers on cat chromosome B1.
- The most significant linkage was between marker FCA700 and Tabby.
- Pairwise analysis supported the published genetic map of the cat.
- The linked markers cover a 17-cM region.
- Additional meioses are required to refine the region.
Takeaway
This study looked at the genes that make cats have their unique Tabby stripes and found where those genes are located in their DNA.
Methodology
A genome scan was performed on a large pedigree of cats segregating for Tabby coat markings using microsatellite markers.
Limitations
The study was limited to specific phenotypes and the number of meioses from mackerel patterned cats was low.
Participant Demographics
The study involved a pedigree of 64 domestic cats.
Statistical Information
P-Value
7.56
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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