E-Locus (Alpaca)
E-Locus (Alpaca)
General description
The E locus (MCR1 gene) controls whether black pigment (eumelanin) can be stored in the hair. If at least one dominant E allele is present at the E locus, the alpaca is generally able to store eumelanin in the hair. However, if the animal is homozygous for the recessive e allele (e1 or e2), only the red-brown pigment pheomelanin is deposited – regardless of the genetics at the A locus. The E locus therefore has a superior effect over the A locus.
Breeds
Alpaca
Order details
| Test number | 8983 |
| Sample material | 0.5 ml EDTA blood, 2x cheek swab, 1x special swab (eNAT) |
| Test duration | 7-14 working days |
Test specifications
| Gene | MC1R |
| Mutation | 901C>T (e1), 82A>G (e2) |
| Literature | OMIA:001199-30538 |
Detailed description
The development of the different coat colors in alpacas is determined by numerous genetic factors.
The E locus(MCR1 gene) controls whether black pigment (eumelanin) can be stored in the hair. If at least one dominant E allele is present in the E locus, the alpaca is generally able to produce black eumelanin and store it in the hair. However, if the animal is homozygous for the recessive e allele (e1 or e2), only the red-brown pigment pheomelanin can be deposited in the hair – regardless of which genetic variants are present at the A locus. The E locus therefore has a superior effect over the A locus.
The variants e1 (C901T) and e2(A82G) are examined as part of this genetic test.
