Standardization of Methodology for Polymorphism Detection in ASIP, MC1R and MATP Genes in Relation to Colour in Horses

Abstract

The basic colour in horses, such as black, brown and chestnut is affected by only two genes MC1R and ASIP. Other colours in horses are affected by modifying genes, such as dilution gene MATP. In this paper genotypes of 133 horses were determined using PCR‑RFLP for MATP (membrane‑associated transporter protein) gene and duplex PCR‑RFLP for MC1R (melanocortin 1 receptor) and ASIP (agouti signaling protein) genes. The allele and genotype frequencies were detected in a group of horses of 6 different breeds. In animals, which was not influenced by modification allele of another colour gene, we found the concordance between detected genotypes and phenotypes observed in summer and in winter. But in some animals, it was difficult to derive genotypes from their colour and therefore DNA analysis could be necessary.

Keywords

• horse
• coat colour
• <i>MATP</i>
• <i>MC1R</i>
• <i>ASIP</i>